The lectern is akin to central control. Events are executed from the lectern.
In comedy skits (like Saturday Night Live), sometimes the camera opens on an unattended lectern. I call it the naked lectern. It looks so silly. Why? It sends the unconscious message that no one is in control.
However, there is no right or wrong way regarding presence at lecterns. Knowing the organization’s lectern protocol for which you are giving a presentation is always the “right” way. Toastmasters is the only organization I know that has strict protocols for the lectern.
Here are some lectern etiquette tips for professionalism.
If you are a Toastmaster – Never leave until someone takes over
Linnaea practices lectern etiquette by reaching for a handshake as she returns control of a program to another person during a Toastmasters event.
Stay put until the person you call up arrives, shakes your hand, or at least takes your place. Think of it as playing “tag.” You don’t move away to take your seat until someone has “tagged” you with a handshake. Step back to allow the approaching person to step in front of you.
This doesn’t mean you can’t move around while delivering your talk. When finished, however, remain until the next person to take control arrives and shakes your hand. If they appear not to be aware or willing to shake your hand, that’s okay. The handshake is not important. What is important is not to leave the lectern unattended.
If the organization you are speaking in has no thoughts about the lectern, you might suggest the Toastmasters format. It looks professional and sends the message that the program is always under control.
My TEDx Lectern experience
The professional coach for my Tedx experience laughed when she learned I was a Toastmaster. Why? Because we have strict protocols for doing things, like lectern presence, that can be hard habits to break. At this TEDx event, the master of ceremonies introduced the speaker from one side of the stage, LEFT the stage, and then the speaker would walk on stage and begin talking. This approach placed the point of focus on the speaker right from the get-go.
Other lectern etiquette tips:
Lead the Applause
When a program calls for the audience to applaud, you lead by applauding first.
What to say if you trip
From: One-Liners for Disaster, by Tom Antion
–I also do magic tricks.
-It took years of finishing school to learn to do that.
-Is there a doctor in the house?
-Ok, Who planted the banana peel?
-I used to be too humble to stumble.
-Give me an inch, and I’ll take a fall.
Image used with permission of Elizabeth Gilbert Photography
