Pointers for Contest Planning

If you are chairing a speech contest, remember these five key components to plan a successful event.

1) Book a venue

Event space is a critical element in contests, say veteran speakers. Ideal venues offer low ceilings, a clear stage view and close proximity between the stage and the first row of chairs.

2) Handpick a team

Running a contest effectively means that you must delegate roles and recruit volunteers. Select people who are dependable and experienced to fill key positions, such as chief judge, sergeant at arms and timer.

3) Create an agenda

Early on, design a contest agenda template and add the categories as they become available: contestants (remember that their eligibility must be confirmed), volunteer team, visiting officers, the program and timeline, sponsor credits and upcoming events. A timeline keeps your program on track from start to finish.

4) Communicate clearly and often

A contest chair can never communicate too much with the contest team and contestants. Secure contact's email addresses and group them for frequent and clear instructions about contest location, time, speech titles and team roles. After the contest, send emails to the contest chair at the next level of the competition, with the winners'complete contact information.

5) Generate Publicity

It's vital to let other clubs and the community at large know about an upcoming contest. To publicize events, take advantage of free social networking tools such as facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube. Also remember to publicize the contest winners with your local media.