Beyond the Speech: The Power of Evaluation

When you think of Toastmasters, you probably think of prepared speeches. But insightful evaluations are just as important, if not more so!

Without tangible, specific feedback on where we can grow, we could give speech after speech and still wonder why they aren’t quite landing the way we want them to. Evaluations give us the insight we need to level up as speakers.

At the one-hour Learn to Evaluate Workshop on September 22, 2026, 132 participants explored the importance of giving specific, constructive feedback—not just for the speaker, but for the entire club. Every evaluation is an opportunity for all members to learn something new.

Participants learned techniques to make evaluations more engaging, such as having an introduction and conclusion, referring to the speaker in the third person, and providing clear, actionable suggestions that speakers can take into their next speech.

Instead of simply saying, “add more vocal variety,” an evaluator might quote a specific sentence where increasing volume could create dramatic effect. Rather than saying, “use the stage more,” they could demonstrate how stepping away from the lectern might strengthen the delivery. 

The main takeaway from the workshop was that being an evaluator is both a fun and challenging role. A great evaluator considers the speaker’s experience and provides encouraging and thoughtful feedback that they can actually use.

And perhaps most importantly, we are all qualified to evaluate. Whether you have been a Toastmaster for years or are brand new to the club, your perspective is valuable. Evaluations are subjective, and speakers don’t have to apply every piece of feedback they receive. What matters is that we create a friendly and supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to grow.

Stay tuned for more Evaluation Workshops to hone your skills and help your club grow as competent speakers.

Tatum Freigang, 2025 District 21 Evaluation Contest Champion