Judge's Code of Ethics

Contests would not be possible without judges. Judges listen to and watch the speakers, evaluate them, and assign scores based on specific criteria. Think of judging as an evaluation with numeric criteria.

Judging is a vital role: contests wouldn’t be possible without them. Because they are so important, Toastmasters International established a code of ethics for all judges.

Judge’s Code of Ethics from Toastmasters International
(You can find this code on the back of every judge’s ballot.)

1. Judges will consciously avoid bias of any kind in selecting first, second and third place contestants. They will not consider any contestant’s club, area, division, or district affiliation. Nor will they consider any contestant’s race, sex, race, creed, national origin, profession or political beliefs. They will demonstrate the utmost objectivity.

2. Judges will not time the speeches and will not consider the possibility of under-time or overtime when judging a contestant’s speech.

3. Judges will support by word and deed the contest rules and judging standards, refraining from public criticism of the contest and revealing scores and ranking only in accordance with official policy.

I would also add that judges must judge only the speech presented at the contest. They should never consider other speeches they may have heard from that speaker, what they thought of the speech the last time they heard it (remember that contestants may and do present the same speech at the club, area, division and district contests.)

Whew. No wonder we spend the first part of every contest briefing judges! Judging is an important responsibility! Judging is also a wonderful opportunity! Where else could you practice your evaluation skills on two, three, ten or even twenty outstanding speakers? Judging is your chance to sharpen your evaluation skills as you observe and listen to each contestant.
Judging is an important responsibility, but like any role in toastmasters it brings great rewards. I encourage you to serve as a judge in your club, area, division or district contest. Contact your area or division governor to take advantage of this unique opportunity to participate in contests and take your evaluation skills to new heights!