TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME TO TOASTMASTERS 3

THE TOASTMASTERS JOURNEY 3

THE BENEFITS OF TOASTMASTERS 4

HOW TO USE THE NAVIGATOR 4

EXPLORE THE BASICS 5

TOASTMASTERS MEETING STRUCTURE 5

WHO’S WHO 6

Meeting Roles 6

Your Club Executive Committee 7

SCHEDULING A SPEECH 8

Tips for Coping with Nervousness 8

THE TOASTMASTERS PATHWAYS LEARNING EXPERIENCE 9

HOW IT WORKS 9

START YOUR JOURNEY 12

Log in to toastmasters.org 12

Choose Your Language 12

Order Your Path 12

Begin Your First Project 12

Ask for a Mentor 13

THE TOASTMASTERS EVALUATION 14

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE TOASTMASTERS EVALUATION 14

WHAT TO EXPECT 14
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CO NTINUED

Before the Meeting 14

During the Meeting 16

After the Meeting 16

RECOGNIZING YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS 17

BADGES 17

AWARDS 17

YOUR JOURNEY DOESN’T END HERE 18

ENRICH YOUR EXPERIENCE 19

BE A MENTOR 19

COMPETE IN SPEECH CONTESTS 19

SERVE YOUR CLUB 19

SERVE YOUR DISTRICT 20

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 20

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL
toastmasters.org

© 2020 Toastmasters International. All rights reserved.

Toastmasters International, the Toastmasters International logo, and all other
Toastmasters International trademarks and copyrights are the sole property
of Toastmasters International and may be used only with permission.

Rev. 12/2024 Item 8722

 WELCOME TO TOASTMASTERS
Congratulations! You are officially a member of Toastmasters International. You have joined an organization
that for over one hundred years has helped people across the world conquer their fears, improve their
communication and leadership skills, and build their confidence. You are now part of a global community
of members working to reach their personal and professional goals.

Each day, thousands of people go to Toastmasters meetings held in communities and organizations
around the globe. A club meeting isn’t structured like a classroom with an instructor. Instead, it’s a
supportive group environment where people with diverse skill sets and backgrounds come together to
practice their skills and exchange valuable feedback with each other.

Through Toastmasters, you will learn how to organize, write, and deliver presentations with poise and
confidence. You will practice by giving speeches in your club among people who want to help you
improve and watch you succeed. By attending meetings, you strengthen your ability to listen, learn to
evaluate others’ ideas in a positive way, and practice leadership skills. You are embarking on a journey of
self-development that will help you to enhance your skills.

THE TOASTMASTERS JOURNEY

Every Toastmaster’s journey begins with a single speech. Now that you’re a member, you will prepare and
deliver speeches at club meetings based on the projects in the Toastmasters Pathways learning experience.
Members of your club will watch, listen, and give you feedback and suggest areas for improvement. After
you have given a few speeches and are familiar with the structure of your club, you will evaluate other
members’ speeches and help them improve their skills.

Challenge yourself to contribute at every club meeting you attend along your journey. The success of a
club meeting depends on the members in attendance. In Toastmasters, you learn by participating. There
are many roles to fill and all meeting participants play an important part in making the club experience
educational and enjoyable. Whether you serve in a meeting role, such as grammarian, timer, or Toastmaster,
or give an impromptu Table Topics® speech, you help to shape every meeting.

As you continue on your journey, you will be presented with many opportunities to learn and grow. Not
only will you participate at your club meetings, but you may also choose to serve as a mentor, club officer,
or even a District leader. You may also participate in speech contests and move on to compete against
members from around the globe.

You guide your journey. Regardless of the direction you choose, Toastmasters provides the tools you need
to make your journey memorable and meaningful.

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 THE BENEFITS OF TOASTMASTERS
You joined Toastmasters for a reason or perhaps many reasons. You may want to conquer the nervousness
you feel when speaking in front of a group, or perhaps you’re working toward a promotion at work and
you need help improving a specific communication or leadership skill. You may already be an excellent
public speaker but need a place to practice your technique.

Whatever your motivation, you have something in common with all other members: you are working
to improve yourself in some way. In Toastmasters, you can expect to practice your public speaking and
leadership skills among a group of people who want you to succeed. Your Toastmasters club is a safe
environment; here, you practice, receive, and apply peer feedback, then practice again.

You have speaking and leadership opportunities in your club that you can apply to your personal and
professional life outside of Toastmasters. For example, by learning to manage your body language during
a speech, you may improve your nonverbal communication when speaking to others. By giving a speech
within a specific time limit, you can hone your time management skills in your day-to-day life. Your club is
your place to practice and learn.

HOW TO USE THE NAVIGATOR

This guide is filled with essential information about the Toastmasters journey and the Toastmasters
Pathways learning experience. Use it to help you begin your journey and support your progress. Whether
you are just embarking on your journey or are a seasoned Toastmaster, The Navigator can answer your
questions and guide you along the way.

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 EXPLORE THE BASICS
As a member, understanding the structure and routine of your club will help you. Now that you’ve joined
a club and attended a meeting or two, you probably have a general understanding of how a Toastmasters
club functions. If you are less familiar with the club, read this section to familiarize yourself with basic
information about club meeting structure, meeting roles, club officers, how to schedule a speech, and tips
for overcoming nervousness.

TOASTMASTERS MEETING STRUCTURE

Club meetings are the heart of your Toastmasters experience. It is here that you will practice your skills and
hone your craft with the support and encouragement of others. Every club meeting has three parts:

Prepared speeches. During this portion of the

meeting, several members present speeches
based on projects in the Toastmasters Pathways
learning experience. Typically two to three
speakers are scheduled, but this varies depending
on the agenda and meeting length.

Evaluations. Each prepared speech is verbally

evaluated by a fellow member in a helpful,
constructive manner using standard evaluation
criteria. The evaluator also prepares a written
evaluation, and all members are invited to submit
written comments, too.

Table Topics. During Table Topics, all attendees

have an opportunity to present one- to two-
minute impromptu talks. This is often the most
challenging and fun part of your meeting.

The order and length of these segments may differ from club to club. The length of a club meeting often
determines the amount of time for each segment.

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 WHO’S WHO
The success of a club is determined by the members who speak and fulfill meeting roles as well as the club
officers who make the meetings happen.

MEETING ROLES
At club meetings you take on meeting roles. Each one adds value to your learning experience and helps
you improve your communication and leadership skills. Below are brief descriptions of each to familiarize
you with who does what at a meeting. If you are fulfilling a role at an upcoming meeting, read
A Toastmaster Wears Many Hats (Item 1167D) or visit toastmasters.org/meetingroles for more detailed
information.

Speaker: Each speaker prepares and presents a speech based on a project assignment from their
learning path in Pathways.

Evaluator: The evaluator observes a speaker’s presentation and gives constructive comments in a
brief evaluation speech. In addition to a verbal evaluation, the evaluator gives a written evaluation
using a specific resource.

Timer: The timer helps to keep the meeting on schedule and times each speech. When you’re
the timer, you will use a stopwatch, timing lights, or other device provided by your club to keep
track of time. At the end of the meeting, you share timing records with club members.

Table Topicsmaster: The Table Topicsmaster facilitates Table Topics—the meeting segment
in which members deliver brief, impromptu speeches. The Table Topicsmaster prepares and
introduces the topics and determines the speaking order.

General Evaluator: The General Evaluator evaluates everything that takes place and gives
feedback to improve future meetings. When you serve as General Evaluator, you are responsible
for pointing out what worked well and what could be better next time.

Toastmaster: The Toastmaster hosts and conducts the meeting. When you’re the Toastmaster,
you introduce speakers and keep the meeting moving along. This role is generally reserved for
experienced members who are familiar with the club and its procedures.

Grammarian: The grammarian introduces new words to members, listens to the way members
speak, and presents a verbal report at the end of the meeting. The grammarian provides feedback
to help Toastmasters improve their language skills and stretch their vocabularies.

Ah-Counter: The Ah-Counter helps speakers keep track of the filler words and sounds they use
and gives a report at the end of the meeting. Words may be inappropriate interjections such as
and, well, but, so, you know. Sounds may be ah, um, er.

Optional meeting participants: Your club may have other meeting participants, such as Joke
Master, parliamentarian, or Word Master. Ask your club officers if your club includes additional
meeting participants and how to fulfill those roles.

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YOUR CLUB EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Every club has elected officers who ensure the quality and long-term success of the club. These are the
members who make your club meetings happen. Your club executive committee includes the President,
Vice President Education, Vice President Membership, Vice President Public Relations, Secretary, Treasurer,
Sergeant at Arms, and Immediate Past President.

Along your journey, you may need to communicate with one or more executive committee members to
complete learning projects. For example, you may need to verify with the Vice President Education that
you managed an event. Or, if you wish to promote your club as part of an assignment, you’ll need approval
and guidance from the Vice President Public Relations.

Your club officers are there to help you. Use them as resources and guides. Read the following descriptions
of each club executive committee member to help you determine who to reach out to when you have
questions or need assistance. If you aren’t sure who to speak with, your President or Vice President
Education can help you.

President: This officer is the Chief Executive Officer responsible for supervision and operation of
the club. The President sets the tone for the club and provides helpful, supportive leadership for
all activities.

Vice President Education (VPE): This officer is responsible for planning successful club meetings
and making sure each member has the opportunity to achieve their educational goals. The VPE is
the second-highest ranking club officer.

Vice President Membership (VPM): This officer manages the process of bringing guests to
meetings and encouraging those guests to become members. The VPM maintains a constant
flow of new people into the club.

Vice President Public Relations (VPPR): This officer promotes the club in the community and
notifies the media about the club news and benefits. The VPPR updates web content and social
media, and safeguards the Toastmasters brand identity.

Secretary: This officer maintains club records, manages files, handles club correspondence, and
takes the minutes at each club and executive committee meeting.

Treasurer: This officer is the club accountant. The Treasurer manages the club bank account,
writes checks when approved by the executive committee and deposits dues and other club
revenues.

Sergeant at Arms (SAA): This officer keeps track of physical inventory. The SAA arrives early to
prepare the meeting space and stays after to stow all club equipment.

Immediate Past President: This officer serves as a guide and resource to club officers and
members.

You may still have questions. Your VPE or other club officers can familiarize you with the club. They
can explain how the club operates, help you identify your learning opportunities, and explain your
responsibilities as a member. Tell the VPE about your goals and ask how your club can help you achieve
them. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

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 SCHEDULING A SPEECH
One of the first tasks you complete as a member is to deliver your Ice Breaker speech to your club. The Ice
Breaker is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the club and help others get to know you. For some
this can be terrifying and for others it’s easy, but know that you’re supported by everyone in your club.

At the end of a club meeting, talk to your VPE to set a meeting date for your Ice Breaker speech. They may
also schedule this speech for you soon after you become a member. Speak with your VPE to determine the
best way to get in touch to schedule speeches as you move through your learning experience.

TIPS FOR COPING

WITH NERVOUSNESS
You may be nervous to speak. Feeling nervous happens to everyone. Even experienced speakers
can get nervous before presenting to an audience. Nervousness is a challenge every speaker
must confront. Read these tips to help manage and control nervousness and become an effective
speaker.

■ Arrive early to the meeting room to get familiar with the space. If you plan to use technology or
visual aids, you may find it helpful to practice with them before the meeting begins.

■ Practice your speech and revise it until you can present it with ease.
■ Concentrate on your breathing. You can ease your tension by doing breathing exercises that
work for you.

■ Visualize yourself giving a successful speech. Picture the audience applauding as you finish and
return to your seat.

■ Realize that audience members support your success. They aren’t there to judge you. They want
to hear your message.

■ Don’t call attention to your nervousness. If you don’t say anything about it, likely nobody will
notice.

■ Concentrate on the message you are communicating to your audience. Your nervous feelings
will be reduced if you focus your attention away from your anxieties.

■ Take every opportunity to speak. Experience builds confidence. Most beginning speakers find
that they manage anxiety better after each speech they give.

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 THE TOASTMASTERS PATHWAYS
LEARNING EXPERIENCE
You’ve attended club meetings. You’re familiar with standard club procedures and have an understanding
of meeting and officer roles. You’re ready to take the next step in your journey. You’re ready to find and
begin your path in the Toastmasters Pathways learning experience.

As you progress through Pathways, you will practice and improve your communication and leadership
skills. The speeches you give in your club will be based on assignments in Pathways. Every project has
an assignment that concludes with you giving a speech in your club. By completing projects and giving
speeches, you challenge yourself to build and refine certain skills. Through Pathways you can develop your
skills in many different areas—communication, leadership, management, strategic planning, service to
others, public speaking and more. You have the opportunity to complete projects that range in topic from
persuasive speaking to motivating others to creating a podcast to leading a group in a difficult situation.

Pathways sets you on your journey of personal and professional development. It offers many different
avenues for you to explore and achieve. Pathways is a journey of possibilities.

HOW IT WORKS
Before you start, you can take the Pathways Assessment online. There are six different learning paths.
The Pathways Assessment can help you find the one that is right for you. After responding to a series of
questions, you will be presented with the path that best fits you and your current needs, interests, and
goals. You may be excited, energized, or even surprised by the path recommended to you. The Pathways
Assessment helps to point you in the best possible direction.

Each of the six paths is unique:

Dynamic Leadership helps you build your skills as a strategic leader. The projects on
this path focus on understanding leadership and communication styles, the effect of
conflict on a group, and the skills needed to defuse and direct conflict. These projects also
emphasize the development of strategies to facilitate change in an organization or group,
interpersonal communication, and public speaking. This path culminates in a project
focused on applying your leadership skills.

Engaging Humor helps you build your skills as an accomplished public speaker. The
projects on this path focus on learning how an audience responds to different types
of humor and improving your ability to deliver a message with humor. The projects
contribute to developing an understanding of effective public speaking technique, speech
writing, speech delivery, and using humorous stories. This path culminates in an extended
speech that will allow you to apply what you learned.

Motivational Strategies helps you build your skills as a powerful and effective
communicator. The projects focus on learning strategies for building connections with
the people around you, understanding motivation, and successfully leading small
groups to accomplish tasks. This path culminates in a comprehensive team-building
project that brings all of your skills together—including public speaking.

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 Persuasive Influence helps you build your skills as an innovative communicator
and leader. The projects on this path focus on how to negotiate a positive outcome
together with building strong interpersonal communication and public speaking skills.
Each project emphasizes developing leadership skills to use in complex situations,
as well as creating innovative solutions to challenges. This path culminates in a High
Performance Leadership project of your design.

Presentation Mastery helps you build your skills as an accomplished public speaker.
The projects on this path focus on learning how an audience responds to you and
improving your connection with audience members. The projects contribute to
developing an understanding of effective public speaking technique, including speech
writing, and speech delivery. This path culminates in an extended speech that will
allow you to apply what you learned.

Visionary Communication helps you build your skills as a strategic communicator and
leader. The projects on this path focus on developing your skills for sharing information
with a group, planning communications, and creating innovative solutions. Speech
writing and speech delivery are emphasized in each project. This path culminates in
the development and launch of a long-term personal or professional vision.

No matter which path you choose, you will complete at least 14 educational projects and present a
minimum of 15 prepared speeches. You will also serve in various meeting roles.

Each path is divided into five levels that build in complexity. The levels help you build on and apply what
you have learned.

LEVEL 1: Master the Fundamentals. Develop or enhance your understanding of the fundamentals
needed to be a successful public speaker and evaluator. You’ll focus on speech writing and basic speech
delivery, as well as receiving, applying, and delivering feedback.

LEVEL 2: Learning Your Style. Develop an understanding of your personal styles and preferences. You’ll
have the opportunity to identify your leadership or communication styles and preferences. You will also be
introduced to the basic structure of the Pathways Mentor Program.

LEVEL 3: Increasing Knowledge. Begin increasing your knowledge of skills specific to your path. You’ll
complete one required project and at least two elective projects that address your goals and interests
through a wide variety of topics.

LEVEL 4: Building Skills. Build the skills you need to succeed on your path. You’ll have the opportunity
to explore new challenges and begin applying what you have learned. You’ll complete one required
project and at least one elective project.

LEVEL 5: Demonstrating Expertise. In this final level, demonstrate your expertise in the skills you
have learned. You’ll have the opportunity to apply what you have learned at all levels to accomplish larger
projects. You’ll complete one required project, and at least one elective project.

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PATH COMPLETION

This section includes the final project in your path. Once you have completed Levels 1 through 5, you
will have access to Reflect on Your Path, which brings closure to your path. At the completion of this final
section you will receive your proficient badge.

The table below shows what you can expect to do at each step of the way.

LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5

Mastering Learning Your Increasing Building Skills Demonstrating Path
Fundamentals Style Knowledge Expertise Completion

Ice Breaker Two required One required One required One required Reflect on Your
projects + project + a project + a project + a Path
Writing a Introduction to minimum of minimum of minimum of
Speech with Toastmasters two elective one elective one elective
Purpose Mentoring projects project project
Introduction to *Serve as
Vocal Variety Topicsmaster,
and Body Toastmaster and
Language evaluator by the
end of Level 3
Evaluation and
Feedback

There are tools available to help you every step of the way.

■ Base Camp, your online gateway to Pathways, is where you will find everything you need to progress
on your journey.
■ You can watch videos that demonstrate the skills you will build through the projects, take quizzes,
and more.

■ Your club o!cers are ready to help you make your journey a successful one.
■ Members of your club are present to give you encouragement and feedback and to help you improve.
You are recognized at each step. You will receive badges and printable certificates when you complete
each level. When you complete Levels 1 through 5 and the Reflect on Your Path project, you receive the
Proficient designation. This award marks the completion of your path—a recognition of the time and
effort you have devoted to building your skills.

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 START YOUR JOURNEY
You have the tools and information you need to begin your journey through Pathways. Read the following
steps to get started.

If you need help ordering your path, talk to your VPE.

LOG IN TO TOASTMASTERS.ORG

Visit toastmasters.org and log in with your member ID and password.

Select "Learning Hub" and then the “Choose a Path” button to start your journey.

CHOOSE YOUR LANGUAGE

When prompted, choose the language in which you would like to complete your path. Available
languages include Arabic, English, French, German, Simplified Chinese, and Spanish.

ORDER YOUR PATH

After you select your path, either through the Pathways Assessment or on your own, it’s time to complete
your order. Follow the steps on your screen to finish.

If this is your first path as a Toastmaster, the price is included in your membership fee.

BEGIN YOUR FIRST PROJECT

Explore the Ice Breaker project and review all the resources you find. When you are comfortable with the
information in the project, work to complete the assignment. Use the steps given on the Project Checklist
resource to guide you. If you haven't yet selected your path, you can access the Ice Breaker and begin your
first project by visiting toastmasters.org/Pathways.

Your VPE can show you the process for completing project assignments and speaking in your club. Base
Camp tutorials also show you how to navigate the online projects if you chose to experience Base Camp.
You will quickly see that all projects in Pathways are organized in the same way. Navigating through them
will soon be a familiar process.

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ASK FOR A MENTOR

Toastmasters have a history of supporting and nurturing each other through mentorship. If this interests
you, ask your club VPE to match you with a mentor in your club. As a protégé, your mentor will help you
gain self-confidence and achieve a higher rate of success. The mentor was once a new member like you
and knows how important help can be to someone just starting in Pathways. Even a seasoned Toastmaster
can learn something new and improve their skills by being a protégé.

To learn more about the Pathways Mentor Program and its benefits, review the “Be a Mentor” section.

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 THE TOASTMASTERS EVALUATION
You may be nervous to receive your first speech evaluation in your club. Don’t be—it’s through honest,
fair evaluations that you truly learn and grow. Every speech you deliver will be evaluated by another
Toastmaster, and you will eventually be asked to evaluate others’ speeches, which will help you to develop
even more. Evaluations give you the feedback you need to advance your skills.

This section shows you how to use the evaluation resources included in the Pathways projects. You will
learn valuable techniques for giving and receiving effective, constructive feedback in the Evaluation and
Feedback project at Level 1.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE TOASTMASTERS EVALUATION

Toastmasters International founder Ralph C. Smedley said, “No Toastmasters club is fulfilling its obligation to
its members unless it brings them the maximum of training in the art of constructive criticism.” Evaluations
help to boost your confidence and provide you a tangible direction for improvement. They are essential to
your Toastmasters experience—they show you what you do well and what you might consider practicing
more. Without constructive criticism from others, you may not grow as a communicator or leader.

You have likely already witnessed the benefit of evaluations in your club. A member speaks, receives verbal
and written feedback from another Toastmaster, and then uses those comments to improve the next
speech. The evaluator’s goal is to give the speaker constructive feedback that will help them improve.

The evaluator benefits from this experience, too. Many members believe serving as the evaluator is the
most challenging meeting role to fulfill, which makes the benefits so rewarding. When you’re the evaluator,
you learn to listen more attentively, refine your critical thinking abilities, and give feedback tactfully. You are
tasked with considering many different factors, such as effective speech delivery techniques, the speaker’s
skill level, habits and mannerisms, as well as their progress to date. It is your job to consider all of this while
delivering an evaluation that is encouraging, thoughtful and motivating.

The evaluator gives an honest, constructive reaction to your efforts using the evaluation criteria provided
within your project. Read on to understand the purpose of the criteria before you begin presenting
speeches and evaluating others.

WHAT TO EXPECT

BEFORE THE MEETING

You will be assigned an evaluator once you have scheduled your first speech. Send this person the
evaluation resource for your project assignment or ensure they can access it in advance of the club
meeting. This way, the evaluator can get familiar with what they need to look and listen for during your
presentation. Find your evaluation resource toward the end of your project or search for it on Base Camp.

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The evaluation resource guides the evaluator’s job. Every speech in Pathways has a unique evaluation
resource with notes and criteria specific to your assignment. This information helps the evaluator
determine how well you achieved each competency or skill.

There are three pages:

Evaluation Form. The first For the evaluator: In addition to your verbal evaluation, please complete this form.

page gives an overview of

Clarity: Spoken language is clear and is easily understood
5 – Exemplary 4 – Excels 3 – Accomplished 2 – Emerging 1 – Developing
Comments:

the assignment to help the Evaluation Form Vocal Variety: Uses tone, speed, and volume as tools
5 – Exemplary 4 – Excels 3 – Accomplished 2 – Emerging 1 – Developing
Ice Breaker
evaluator understand what it Member Name Date
Comments:

is you’re trying to accomplish. Evaluator Speech Length 4–6 minutes Eye Contact: Effectively uses eye contact to engage audience
5 – Exemplary 4 – Excels 3 – Accomplished 2 – Emerging 1 – Developing
Speech Title
Comments:

The evaluator uses the second Purpose Statement

The purpose of this project is for the member to introduce themself to the club and learn the basic structure of a
public speech.
Gestures: Uses physical gestures effectively
5 – Exemplary 4 – Excels 3 – Accomplished 2 – Emerging 1 – Developing

page to score the skills you Notes for the Evaluator

This member is completing their first speech in Toastmasters. The goal of the evaluation is to give the member an effective
evaluation of their speech and delivery style. Because the Ice Breaker is the first project a member completes, you may
Comments:

demonstrated in the speech.

choose to use only the notes section and not the numerical score. Audience Awareness: Demonstrates awareness of audience engagement and needs
If you know you will be the evaluator ahead of the meeting, communicate with the speaker to learn about them and their 5 – Exemplary 4 – Excels 3 – Accomplished 2 – Emerging 1 – Developing
goals for their first speech. Be sure to set aside enough time in your schedule to meet with the speaker after their speech to Comments:
review the evaluation and answer any questions they may have.

General Comments
You excelled at: Comfort Level: Appears comfortable with the audience
5 – Exemplary 4 – Excels 3 – Accomplished 2 – Emerging 1 – Developing
Comments:

Interest: Engages audience with interesting, well-constructed content

You may want to work on: 5 – Exemplary 4 – Excels 3 – Accomplished 2 – Emerging 1 – Developing
Comments:

To challenge yourself:

Page 1 of 3 Page 2 of 3

Evaluation Criteria. This page Evaluation Criteria

helps the evaluator determine

This criteria lists the specific goals and expectations for the speech. Please review each level to help you complete the
evaluation.

5 – Exemplary 4 – Excels 3 – Accomplished 2 – Emerging 1 – Developing

your score for each competency. Clarity

5 – Is an exemplary public speaker who is always understood
Comfort Level
5 – Appears completely self-assured with the audience

The evaluator will use this page

4 – Excels at communicating using the spoken word 4 – Appears fully at ease with the audience
3 – Spoken language is clear and is easily understood 3 – Appears comfortable with the audience
2 – Spoken language is somewhat unclear or challenging 2 – Appears uncomfortable with the audience
to understand 1 – Appears highly uncomfortable with the audience

side-by-side with the Evaluation

1 – Spoken language is unclear or not easily understood
Interest
Vocal Variety 5 – Fully engages audience with exemplary, well-
5 – Uses the tools of tone, speed, and volume to perfection constructed content

Form to easily determine your

4 – Excels at using tone, speed, and volume as tools 4 – Engages audience with highly compelling, well-
3 – Uses tone, speed, and volume as tools constructed content
2 – Use of tone, speed, and volume requires further practice 3 – Engages audience with interesting, well-
1 – Ineffective use of tone, speed, and volume constructed content

scores.
2 – Content is interesting but not well-constructed or is well-
Eye Contact constructed but not interesting
5 – Uses eye contact to convey emotion and elicit response 1 – Content is neither interesting nor well-constructed
4 – Uses eye contact to gauge audience reaction
and response
3 – Effectively uses eye contact to engage audience
2 – Eye contact with audience needs improvement
1 – Makes little or no eye contact with audience

Gestures
5 – Fully integrates physical gestures with content to deliver
an exemplary speech
4 – Uses physical gestures as a tool to enhance speech
3 – Uses physical gestures effectively
2 – Uses somewhat distracting or limited gestures
1 – Uses very distracting gestures or no gestures

Audience Awareness
5 – Engages audience completely and anticipates
audience needs
4 – Is fully aware of audience engagement/needs and
responds effectively
3 – Demonstrates awareness of audience engagement
and needs
2 – Audience engagement or awareness of audience
requires further practice
1 – Makes little or no attempt to engage audience or meet
audience needs

©2016 Toastmasters International. All rights reserved. Toastmasters International, the Toastmasters International logo and all other Toastmasters
International trademarks and copyrights are the sole property of Toastmasters International and may be used only by permission.
Item 8101E Rev. 12/2023 Page 3 of 3

Just as the evaluator should read the evaluation resource ahead of your speech, you should as well. Doing
so ensures you know exactly what is expected of you during your speech.

Before the meeting begins, talk with your evaluator and make sure they have everything they need from
you. If you want your evaluator to focus on specific skills during your speech, such as eye contact or vocal
variety, communicate this before you give your speech.

Digital evaluation resources can be found on the Evaluation Feedback section of the Feedback page on
Base Camp. Fillable, printable versions of these resources can be accessed from the Resources page or the
first page of each project in your path.

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DURING THE MEETING
At some point after you present your speech, your evaluator will stand up and give a verbal, two- to
three-minute evaluation of your presentation. Listen carefully and take notes. You’ll want to reference this
feedback when preparing your next speech.

At the end of the meeting, your evaluator will return your evaluation resource. Thank them for their
feedback and comments. On the resource, you should see scores and notes indicating what you did well
and what you may want to consider working on to improve your next speech.

AFTER THE MEETING

Spend time reviewing your evaluator’s scores and notes. Read any general comments your evaluator
recorded on the first page of the Evaluation Form. Consider how these written notes and their verbal
comments may help you better your next speech.

Review the scores and comments on the second page of the Evaluation Form. This is where the evaluator
rated you on competencies specific to the speech you gave. To give an objective, honest evaluation, the
evaluator used the Evaluation Criteria page to determine and select the score that best corresponds with
your skill level on each competency.

Evaluation criteria are ranked on a scale of 5 to 1, with 5 being the highest score and 1 the lowest. The table
below explains the different ratings.

Score Definition Explanation

5 Exemplary You do an exemplary job accomplishing the competency

4 Excel You excel at accomplishing the competency

3 Accomplished You accomplish the competency

2 Emerging Your ability to accomplish this competency is emerging

1 Developing You are developing this competency

Although you will strive for the highest score possible, it’s important to know that a score of 3 is
favorable—it means you accomplished that skill. The objective isn’t to achieve the high score. It is to
learn and demonstrate the skill.

Your scores are just that—yours. You and your evaluator are the only people who see them. Use these
scores to determine your strengths and areas in which you can improve. Your scores are important
because they help to assess your skills, but keep in mind that a low score does not mean you can’t move
on to the next project on your path. You are free to start the next project no matter which scores you
achieve. However, if you receive low ratings on any particular project, you may wish to repeat the project
to strengthen your skills before moving forward.

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Each level in your path builds on the last level. The more confident you are in your scores and
competencies, the more confident you will be in your ability to complete future, more difficult projects.

Finally, as you read through your feedback and scores, it’s important to remember a few key points:

■ Good evaluators always o"er suggestions and areas for improvement. Never expect to receive an
evaluation that is all praise.

■ Evaluations are based on opinion. Though evaluators follow the guidelines established in the Evaluation
and Feedback project at Level 1, comments are still subjective and you may not always agree with your
evaluator.

■ Many members believe e"ective evaluations are sometimes di!cult to give and receive. This is why
being the evaluator can be challenging. You will become a better evaluator by observing e"ective
evaluations and by giving more evaluations at club meetings.

RECOGNIZING YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS

You will receive encouragement and recognition as you move through Pathways.

BADGES
In Base Camp, you earn digital badges for different achievements along your path. You receive a unique
digital badge for every level you complete on your path, as well as when you finish your path, to mark your
achievement. Your badges are displayed for other members of your club on Base Camp to see. You can also
share your badges to social media.

You don’t just receive badges—you can give them, too! Encourage your club members by awarding
feedback badges. As you attend club meetings and become more familiar with other members, you will
begin to notice the improvements they make. For example, you may notice a nervous member’s courage
while delivering her first speech. You can recognize a member’s initiative to strengthen the club through
a project assignment or how he motivates a team to reach a goal. No matter the achievement, show you
notice their efforts by giving feedback badges.

AWARDS
You receive awards and certificates along your journey to mark important milestones. When you complete
each level, you receive certificates on Base Camp. You can log in to print them or ask a club officer to assist you.

At the completion of your path, you earn the Proficient designation—a significant Toastmasters
achievement. Being Proficient means you have accomplished every task required within your path,
completed projects on all five levels and fulfilled meeting roles.

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When you become Proficient in your path you receive a certificate. You may print a copy of this award
from Base Camp or request a printed copy from Toastmasters International World Headquarters. You can
also ask World Headquarters to send a letter to your employer recognizing this accomplishment and your
commitment to improving your skills.

YOUR JOURNEY DOESN’T END HERE

Completing a path is a significant accomplishment, but your journey doesn’t have to end. Pathways
offers six distinct paths to help you broaden your communication and leadership skills. You can complete
additional paths to build and develop different skills that you use in your personal and professional life.

The highest educational designation you can earn as a member is the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM)
award, given to those who complete two paths, serve in specific volunteer leadership roles, and complete
the Distinguished Toastmaster project. The DTM recognizes a superior level of achievement in both
communication and leadership. You can find more information on how to begin your journey to become a
Distinguished Toastmaster by visiting toastmasters.org/distinguished-toastmaster.

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 ENRICH YOUR EXPERIENCE

BE A MENTOR
Toastmasters International places high value on the skills, expertise, and wisdom members can share
with others. If supporting and helping others grow interests you, consider embarking on the Pathways
Mentor Program.

In the Pathways Mentor Program, you evaluate your goals as a mentor and the strengths you bring to a
mentoring relationship, complete a short-term mentorship to apply your skills, and commit to a longer,
six-month mentorship to demonstrate your success as a mentor. When you complete the Pathways
Mentor Program, you receive a certificate recognizing your achievement. After you complete all projects
in the Pathways Mentor Program as well as an entire path, you become a Pathways Mentor. Your
Toastmasters and Base Camp profile will show that you are a designated Pathways Mentor.

If you’re participating in Pathways, you will learn about mentorship in the Introduction to Toastmasters
Mentoring project at Level 2. You learn what it means to be a mentor and protégé and see your potential
to achieve as a Toastmasters mentor. When you complete all projects at Level 2, you can enroll in the
Pathways Mentor Program. Simply indicate your interest when prompted on Base Camp or by your VPE.

COMPETE IN SPEECH CONTESTS

Speech contests are a Toastmasters tradition. Each year thousands of Toastmasters compete in the
Humorous Speech, Online Speech, Evaluation, Tall Tales, and Table Topics contests as well as the
International Speech Contest. Contests give you an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and test
your skills.

Competitions begin at the foundational level, the club, and winners continue through the Area, Division,
District, and quarterfinal levels. Quarterfinal winners advance to the semifinals to compete for a chance to
take part in the World Championship of Public Speaking®.

To learn more about speech contests, visit toastmasters.org/speechcontests and speak with your club
officers to find out when the next contest will be held.

SERVE YOUR CLUB

Every club needs officers who can move the club forward and motivate others. As you progress
through your Toastmasters journey, you may find yourself seeking additional leadership experiences
and responsibilities. A club officer position can help you enhance and refine your communication and
leadership skills. It also fulfills a requirement on your path to earning the Distinguished Toastmaster award.

If you are interested in pursuing a club officer position, talk with your club officers to determine the steps
you need to take. Read more about each officer role and responsibilities on the Toastmasters International
website or in the Club Leadership Handbook (Item 1310T).

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 SERVE YOUR DISTRICT
Take your leadership experience to the next level by serving your District. Though you attend club
meetings, your club does not stand alone in the organization. Clubs are grouped into Areas and Divisions
(depending on the number of Areas). These areas and divisions make up a Toastmasters International
District. Members like you are elected or appointed to guide and grow each District.

The District mission is to build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence. Not only does
serving as a District leader fulfill a requirement on the path to becoming a Distinguished Toastmaster, but
it also is a rewarding part of the Toastmasters journey. Learn more about volunteer leadership and what it
means to help others accomplish their goals.

Read more about the District leadership positions by visiting toastmasters.org/districtleaderroles and
referring to the District Leadership Handbook (Item 222T).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

You’ve reached the end of The Navigator. You may still have questions. The best way to get answers is
by speaking with a club officer or visiting the Toastmasters website. If you can’t find it there, contact
Toastmasters International by email or phone.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Pathways. If your question isn’t answered
here, visit toastmasters.org/faq or speak with a club officer.

WHAT IF I DON’T LIKE MY PATH?

You can exchange your path within 90 days of receiving it. You cannot exchange your path after this 90-
day period. If you want to switch paths after 90 days, you must purchase a new path.

To read the full Pathways exchange policy, visit toastmasters.org/Pathways-FAQ.

HOW DO I LOG IN TO BASE CAMP?

Visit www.toastmasters.org and log in with your member ID and password. Select "Learning Hub" and
then the "Choose a Path" button to start your journey.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO COMPLETE MY PATH?

Toastmasters Pathways is a self-paced program. You are not required to complete your path in a specific
amount of time. Move at your own pace to achieve your communication and leadership goals. Your path
never expires.

CAN I GET A REFUND ON MY PATH PURCHASE?

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No refunds are permitted. However, you may exchange a path within 90 days of receipt. To read the full
Pathways exchange policy, visit toastmasters.org/Pathways-FAQ.

I’M WORKING ON A PATH IN ONE LANGUAGE BUT WOULD LIKE TO SWITCH TO A DIFFERENT
LANGUAGE. WHAT DO I DO?

You can exchange your path within 90 days of receiving it. You cannot exchange your path after this 90-
day period. If you want to switch languages after 90 days, you must purchase a new path in your preferred
language.

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