Chairman
1.  The Chairman has the most challenging and important task.  The tone of a meeting is frequently the reflection of the performance of the Chairman, particularly at the beginning of the meeting.

2.  The Chairman should open the meeting with a welcome to all members and guests.  Protocol should be observed by recognising distinguished guests. A suggested way of starting the meeting is to have all present stand and introduce themselves.

3.  Organise your meeting so you know what is going to happen and when.  Think ahead, remain calm and assured and make rulings without haste. However, be decisive - even if you are wrong, as it is better to make a wrong decision than no decision.

4.  Check the program with the VPE before the meeting, and keep the program moving according to the scheduled time.

5.  The business session is perhaps the most difficult for an inexperienced chairman and even for an experienced Toastmaster.

6.  Correct method of obtaining a decision on a motion is:

 "I will now put the motion that................"

 "All those in favour say 'Aye'" - (Pause)

 "Those against, 'No'" - (Pause)

 "I believe the Ayes/Nos have it, and declare the motion/amendment carried/lost."