Wk #9 Spotlight on Toastmasters by Arthur Clarke, DTM
 
Evaluate the Negative with Tact
 
Ideally the most beneficial aspect of an evaluation is helping the speaker address areas that need correction. You are expressing an opinion and should do it with the greatest of diplomacy. My comments are intended to help the speaker and not offend, embarrass or hurt. I would point out areas that can be improved based on the project objectives and the level of the speaker's experience.
 
I write a lot of comments in the speaker's manual and then select the three most urgent areas to address in the verbal evaluation. Later I can spend time talking privately with the member and point out areas less important or things which might be sensitive. The three areas might be control of nervousness, organization, vocal impact, or others.
 
Newer speakers are often dealing with nervousness control. I might cite how they displayed nervousness and then suggest a remedy. This would be evident in their posture, amount of gestures, eye contact, rate of speaking, expressions or pacing.  Gestures that come from locked elbows tend to be rapid and signs of nervousness. I would suggest holding the arms at the side and bringing them up for definite and purposeful gestures.
 
How well the the speech organized? Has the speaker preview the speech and tell us what to expect? "Today, I want to talk about my favorite automobile and explain why the Ford Mustang is the best car for you." This opening lets the audience know what to expect and the intended benefit. A speaker might do this in the written intro or in the opening remarks. Next I would look to see how well he developed his main points (Rule of Three) and finally did the speaker summarize and close well.
 
Of course, the areas for improvement can be many but I think it is wise to focus on just three areas. I'll mention specifically what I think the speaker did that needs attention and what I recommend for change. I present my comments as opinions not as absolutes.  The intensity of the evaluation is moderated by the speaker's experience and requests. Sometimes a speaker will ask for my attention to certain areas.
 
Pointing out areas for improvement is difficult. You need to be specific and tell what the change might be as well as the benefit. For example; "I see you using a lot of gestures which suggest to me that you are nervous. How about reducing the amount of gestures and use more dramatic and fewer gestures? I feel that there would be is less distraction and you can add more emphasis."
 
A three minute evaluation is a short period to give much feedback. The evaluator must be as organized as the speaker. Say what you liked, what could be done differently and encourage the speaker to excel. Above all; be tactful, helpful and friendly.
 
See you at the next meeting........