Page 34 - March 2021 Voices

FIELD NOTES

forward to your next speech” Really? Wasn’t my up for a Toastmaster evaluation, would you tell

speech good enough? I look forward to your next me please which way I ought to go from here?”
speech? Hmmm, have faith, we can remedy this. The cat responded to Alice with some wise
I have two possible “Alternatives” regarding concrete statements. Think before you say, “I
how to conclude your evaluation: Recap quickly cannot think of any suggestions for improvement”

three positive points you made at the start of Consider alternate routes to find your way.
your evaluation: Or. . . focus on the virtual medium of Zoom
For example: “You have superior eye land. Follow the Zoom path. Zoom land replaces
connection, a high level of organization, and Wonderland!”

an inspirational message! It was a pleasure to The Grinning Cat Continued; Also, “Cease and
evaluate your presentation.” desist using the word “Great” and create a cache
Slight Pause of synonyms in your kit bag! [the Cheshire cat is
Hand shake gesture close to the camera crazy about alliterations!]

Mr/Madam Toastmaster. And finally, before you utter “I look forward to
Another ending might be implemented when your next speech,” instead recap three previous
your presenter provides a “perfect presentation” points, pause and shake, or. . . be specific about
encouraging them to go forward, such as; “You steps going forward outside of Toastmasters.”

might consider speaking outside of Toastmasters Pause and shake.
as a paid professional, or volunteer to speak at The cat continued his chattering while still
non-profit organizations for free! The world retaining his big wide grin.
needs to hear your words!” “Now, Miss Alice in Wonderland. . . Hopefuly

Slight pause you are no longer WONDERING where to go. Go
Hand shake gesture close to the camera forward now with your evaluations.
Mr/Madam Toastmaster Speaking of going forward, before you go—
This is Way #3, two alternate ways to end stop! Help get me out of this blasted tree! I’ve

your evaluation and avoid stating the trite and been up here for days! Call the fire department!
overused phrase, “I look forward to hearing your Oh wait, I hear something in the distance, I hear
next speech.” sirens, the fire department must have already
The speaker will be grateful for your specific, gotten the call. . . because this FEEDBACK IS ON

original and personal words while leaving behind FIRE!!!!!!”
the formulaic, predicable and common phrases.
And remember, folks remember your final last Sheila LaChance joined Toastmasters in 2017. She is
lines more prominently. So why not make a a member of Babble-On Toastmasters and Feedbackers.

splash landing! Look for her book, Musings of a Madman I Married:
Alice meets up again with the Cheshire Inspiration to tell your story on Amazon.com.
Cat who is perched high up in a tree. She was
confused and lost. Alice asked the cat; “I’ve signed

34 ONE COMMUNITY