One of the classic program types in Rotary is the “classification talk,” which allows members to share information about their vocations (and themselves).

The Classification Principle

When a lawyer named Paul Harris, a coal dealer, a mining engineer, and a merchant tailor first met in 1905 in Chicago, they gave birth to Rotary and, by the nature of their diverse occupations, to the association’s most distinctive feature—the classification principle. Today, the classification principle, though modified, remains a cornerstone of Rotary. Upon joining Rotary, you are lent a classification by the Board of Directors to reflect your occupation or primary source of income. By limiting active membership by classifications, each club becomes a cross-section of the business and professional life of the community it serves.  Also, the classification principle makes sure that no one profession or business becomes the dominant force within the club.

Another benefit of the classification system is that representatives of many fields are brought together, providing the opportunity for Rotarians to broaden their knowledge of the contemporary workplace. This, in turn, enables Rotarians to fulfill one of the basic obligations of vocational service – recognizing the worthiness to society of all useful occupations.

Preparing a Classification Talk

You can find some hints about preparing a classification talk on this page, and many Rotary clubs also have guidelines posted on their websites. When you are asked to give a classification talk to the Rotary Club of Fairhope, you will be sent a copy of our club guidelines, which can also be found here.