Everyone Has a Voice: Robert’s Rules in Toastmasters

D50 After Dark Podcast

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Show Notes:

Everyone Has a Voice: Robert’s Rules in Toastmasters

Highlights:

00:30 – Introduction to Robert’s Rules of Order

04:56 – Origins and history of Robert’s Rules

10:56 – How to put a motion on the floor

15:48 – The main motion and seconding

23:36 – Process after discussion (calling the question, voting)

27:48 – Six types of motions

28:27 – Six steps for handling a motion

3013 – Upcoming training for Toastmasters area/division directors

31:20 – Resources for learning more about parliamentary procedure

Summary:

The episode features Walter “The Encourager” Price discussing the basics of Robert’s Rules of Order with host Mickey Bennett. They begin by explaining that Robert’s Rules of Order is a set of guidelines for running meetings fairly and efficiently, ensuring everyone has a voice.

Walter traces the origins back to General Henry Robert in 1876, who developed the system after attending disorganized civic and church meetings. The rules have since been updated and are widely used by organizations, including churches, synagogues, political bodies, businesses, and Toastmasters.

The core process involves:

  1. A member stating a motion
  2. Another member seconding the motion
  3. The chair restating the motion
  4. Discussion/debate
  5. Voting
  6. The chair announcing the result

Walter emphasizes the importance of the chair in facilitating the meeting impartially and keeping everyone informed of the proceedings. He explains concepts like amending motions, calling the previous question to end debate, and different voting methods.

The episode concludes with Walter mentioning upcoming training for Toastmasters area and division directors on Robert’s Rules of Order. He encourages listeners to learn more through online resources, books, or by contacting him directly for coaching.

Overall, the episode provides a basic introduction to Robert’s Rules of Order, highlighting its purpose in promoting fair and organized meetings across various types of organizations.

District 50 Parliamentarian:

Walter “The Encourager” Price

469-474-5241

Professorspeaks@gmail.com

Sources:

Robert’s Rules Cheat Sheet from University of North Carolina

Robert’s Rules of Order, 12th edition

Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised, In Brief, 3rd edition

National Association of Parliamentarians http://www.parliamentarians.org