Ah Counter

The Ah Counter has an important and difficult job. Our speaking habits are often years old and completely unconscious in nature. The Ah Counter’s task is to call attention to the members’ use of filler words such as ah, er, uh, so, you know, like,  double words (e.g., the, the), and elongated words, such as  aaaaannnnd.

Notification of such errors is normally given by ringing a bell so that the speakers becomes aware of their unconscious habits.

Before the Meeting

• Prepare a brief explanation of your role in the meeting

During the Meeting

• At the request of the Toastmaster, explain the purpose and function of Ah Counter.
• Keep written track of all infractions, even if you missed ringing the bell.
• Refrain from ringing the bell for guests and during formal speeches.
• Discourage any attention by members to the sound of the bell. Let the bell be a reminder, not a crutch.
• Give a report when called on by the General Evaluator.

That’s all for now, but before I leave you, one last thing… I get asked this question all the time!

”Should I Join A Toastmasters Club?”

Personally, I’ve witnessed transformation after transformation of those joining the Airpark Toastmasters family terrified to speak in public – but then turn into public speaking rock stars! Of course, past history doesn’t guarantee you that same success – you’ll have to make your own intelligent judgements about whether or not you should join a Toastmasters club.

So, I’ll just say this: despite the countless public speaking successes our members have experienced (including 5 media appearances) there are people who race to join Toastmasters, have revealed to them a ‘blue-print’ for public speaking success and yet a few months down the road are still stuck or parked in the same spot!

You do get what you put into it.

I don’t think this will be your experience. After all, you found our blog and read this far so you must be interested in furthering your personal and professional goals through public speaking. Congratulations on completing the first step.

Now, the next step is to stop by as a guest, introduce yourself and watch and learn as we all move forward overcoming our fears, growing professionally through better public speaking and having a great time doing it!

Scottsdale based Airpark Toastmasters, meets at noon every Thursday at the JCC building at 12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260. That’s on the SE corner of Scottsdale and Sweetwater Rd. Please click here for directions and feel free to drop in anytime as a guest.

Happy Speaking,
Dana – President | Airpark Toastmasters

Google+