I’ve noticed a new pandemic sweeping the nation. Don’t worry, it is not necessary to break out those old facemasks from storage, nor hunt for a vaccine. This particular problem is one of energy, not biology. It is the trend towards “weak sauce” applause.

Watch carefully next time you attend an event or gala. When it is time to applaud a speaker, the results are often underwhelming. A “weak sauce” applause that has no flavor. Clapping that dies before the speaker has even taken the stage. It is one that reveals people are more interested in scrolling their phones or catching a quick snooze than acknowledging the person at the front of the room. “Weak sauce” applause lacks enthusiasm, turning any potential gourmet event into a bland fast-food combo.

At a recent Toastmasters Learning Institute, I gave a short keynote to raise awareness about the pandemic of “weak sauce” applause. To combat this worrying trend, I advocated for the audience to follow the lead of chef Emeril Lagasse and “kick it up a notch”. Let’s turn “weak sauce” into a “hot sauce” applause!

Why is this important? It has to do with the power of applause. We clap our hands for many reasons. Two big ones are to show respect for the speaker and to recognize the hard work it takes to stand at center stage. “Hot sauce” applause bring energy to a proceeding. It fires up both the crowd and the speaker. It adds spice to what could otherwise be a dreary dish.

Even more enticing, “hot sauce” applause makes any event more enjoyable. When fun enters the equation, learning becomes easier. Learning requires energy and “hot sauce” applause brings that in heaping dollops.

Therefore, I challenge you to put this into practice. The next time you are at an event, bring on the “hot sauce” applause. Clap loudly. Clap long. Give the speaker your full attention. Then watch the proceedings grow more exciting and more inviting as the fun kicks up several notches.

A dash of “hot sauce” applause brings excitement to any event.