Ah Counter

PURPOSE:
Although Ah Counter is often seen as a "minor" role, it is a serious speaking opportunity, which can make an important contribution to the meeting. The duty 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." You should also note when a speaker repeats a word or phrase such as "I, I" or "This means, this means."

PRIOR TO THE MEETING:
Prepare a brief but thorough summary of your role as Ah Counter that explains your role in the program to visiting guests.

AS YOU ARRIVE AT THE MEETING:
Get a copy of the Ah Counter report from the Sergeant at Arms for use during the meeting. Ask the Toastmaster of the Evening for a copy of the meeting agenda and begin filling in the names of the participants.

DURING THE MEETING:
Throughout the meeting, listen carefully to all of the speakers and keep track of the filler words using your Ah Counter report form. Near the end of the meeting, the Toastmaster of the Evening will ask you to report your findings.

When called upon you for your report, you may stand beside your seat or come to the front of the room to the lectern. Before you begin your report, you should precede this by a brief explanation of your role.

If you assume control of the lectern, remain there after you have finished your report until the Toastmaster of the Evening returns, at which time you shake their hand and return control of the meeting by saying, "Toastmaster of the Evening," remaining at the lectern until she/he arrives; shaking hands and then return to your seat.