North East Texas Toastmasters

AH Counter

January 19, 2009 at 5:47 pm | Posted in Roles | Leave a comment

The purpose of the Ah Counter is to note words and sounds used as a “crutch” or “pause filler” by anyone who speaks during the meeting.  Words may be inappropriate interjections such as and, well, but, so, you know.  Sounds may be ah, um, er.  The Ah Counter should also note when a speaker repeats a word or phrase (such as “I, I” or “this means, this means”), and restart sentences or phrases (such as “I had thought, I knew”).

Explanation of Ah Counter’s Duties:

The purpose of the Ah-Counter is to note words and sounds used as a “crutch” or “pause filler” by anyone who speaks during the meeting.  I will be listening for excessive or inappropriate interjections such as and, well, but, so, and you know; sounds such as ah, um, er, and repeated words such as “I, I” or “This means, this means”.  I’ll use the clicker (click twice) each time I hear the inappropriate use of these words with the exception being during the prepared speech.  After each segment, I’ll report on the number of ahs, ums, ers, and inappropriate word/sound usage.

Prior to the Meeting:

Rehearse the explanation above and be prepared to give it when introduced.
Have a pen and Ah Counter’s log (or blank sheet of paper on which to make notes) in order to be able to keep track of inappropriate word and sound usage.

During the Meeting:

When introduced, stand and explain the Ah Counter’s duties using the explanation above.
Throughout the meeting, listen to everyone for “crutch” sounds and long pauses used as fillers and not as a necessary part of sentence structure.  Use the clicker device on ALL participants (Sgt-at-Arms, Toastmaster of the Day, Table Topics Master, TT respondents, General Evaluator, Evaluators, Timer, Grammarian) EXCEPT during the prepared speech segment of the meeting.
Write down how many “crutch” sounds or words each person used during the following segments of the meeting: table topics respondents, prepared speeches, evaluations.
When called upon for the Ah Counter’s report, stand and announce each speaker’s name and give report on use of “crutch words” or “pause filler” usage.

*Remember, the purpose of the Ah Counter’s report is to help members improve speaking and communication skills, not to embarrass or humiliate.  A good rule of thumb to follow is the number 10. If any one speaker uses 10 or more “crutch words” or “pause filler” words individually, do not give the specific count.  Instead, use the following examples:

“Teresa, I noticed you have a habit of excessive use of the word “and”.  This is an area you are going to want to work on.  But don’t worry; with every speaking opportunity, you will see this improve.”

Or

“Darron, I couldn’t help but notice an excessive use of the word “ah”.  This is an area you will want to work on.  But don’t worry; with every speaking opportunity, you will see this improve.”

*Remember – do not be too “wordy” when giving the Ah Counter’s report.  Stand up, speak up, and sit down.