Don't leave the speaking area unoccupied

   I have noticed that we have gotten a little remiss on "handing over control of the meeting". As toastmaster you will begin the meeting and take control of what is happening. During the meeting you will give control over to various others: like the  Inspirational quote person, Prepared speakers, Table Topics Master. etc.    Traditionally when you hand over control to these various people you will shake hands, bump fists or forearms, Bow...  whatever gesture you deem appropriate.    This in the past was  primarily hand shake but covid changed that for a time and we have done various things since then. 

The point is you are handing over control of the meeting at those time and when they are complete you are taking it back.    Never should the speaking area be unoccupied.   We practice these things and I can't tell you for sure they this is a written rule but it is certainly an expectation in speech contests for example.  This shows a certain professionalism and continuity to things as well as avoiding awkward transitions.  This is what we could call a Best Practice.