A disciplined, punctual Toastmasters meeting is important. The downside is too much emphasis on watching on the clock can become the focus of the meeting.
In 2016 one of our club resolutions was to stay within the allotted time for each agenda item. The motivation was having to clear out of our meeting room by a time certain to avoid overtime charges. Even though the meeting agenda was not full, we were not departing the meeting room on time. Brings to mind Parkinson's Law which is time expands to fill the time allotted for its completion.
Turns out post-meeting was after party hangout time ( Making friends is often the single reason some people join Toastmasters. ).
Some members complained ( quelle surprize ! ). They felt we were paying more attention to the clock than the speeches.
" The meetings are more sterile now." " There used to be a richness, a warmth, playfullness. "
We followed through on our 2016 new year's resolution. We now check with the timekeeper several times during the meeting. Any member who goes over time for a speech or table topics is disqualified from winning a "best" ribbon.
The general evaluator also comments on time discipline. The emphasis on finishing early has resulted in barely clearing out on time.
In my travels I have visited clubs who are more relaxed. They simply allow a speaker extra time if there is slack in the agenda. Others fill in dead time with extra Table Topics which can get boring.
To strike a balance, we encourage members to arrive 30 minutes before the meeting starts. We call it "pre-meeting." This allows time for meeting, greeting and avoiding the last minute rush to fill roles. Like many clubs, we adjourn to nearby picnic tables or a bar after the meeting.
How does your club keep a balance ?