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Evaluator

A member assigned to provide constructive oral and written feedback (2 to 3 minutes) to a specific speaker.

Role overview

Evaluation is at the heart of the Toastmasters educational program. As Evaluator, you observe a prepared speaker and offer supportive, constructive feedback—both verbally (about 2–3 minutes) and in writing—so they know what worked and how to improve next time.

Taking on this role builds active listening, critical thinking, and the ability to deliver praise and recommendations with care.

Before the meeting

• Contact the speaker you’ve been assigned to evaluate. Ask what they will present and what they want to achieve.
• Review their Pathways project objectives so your feedback matches the speech goals.
• Print or open the Evaluation Resource Form PDF and bring something to write with.
• Arrive a few minutes early. Sit where you can see and hear the speaker clearly.
• Confirm with the General Evaluator how the evaluation segment will run.

During the meeting

• Listen actively and take brief notes—focus on specific strengths and areas to improve, not a full speech summary.
• Notice structure, content, delivery, vocal variety, gestures, eye contact, use of time, and how well they met the project objectives.
• Complete the written evaluation form for the speaker (they may also bring a project-specific form).

Delivering your verbal evaluation

When the General Evaluator calls on you, give a 2–3 minute evaluation. A clear structure is the “sandwich” approach:

1. Commendation: Start with specific praise for what the speaker did well.
2. Recommendations: Offer one or two actionable suggestions for improvement—be concrete and kind.
3. Final commendation: End on a strong positive note that reinforces their progress and potential.

Thank you, Mr./Madam General Evaluator.

Fellow Toastmasters and guests: It is my pleasure to evaluate [Speaker Name]’s speech, “[Speech Title]”.

[Share what worked well…]

[Offer specific recommendations…]

[Close with encouragement…]

Thank you.

Tips for success

• Be objective and specific—cite moments from the speech rather than vague praise.
• Evaluate the speech, not the person. Offer praise as well as constructive criticism.
• Match your feedback to the speaker’s experience level and stated goals.
• Stay within time so the meeting stays on schedule.