• Connecting Speakers with Audiences™

Promoting Yourself as a Speaker

Sometimes You’re Better off with More Than One
Sometimes You’re Better off with More Than One 650 508 I Need A Speaker

By Tricia Richards-Service

It’s true. Sometimes you’re better off with more than one. And it’s not just bowling pins, days off, or dollar bills.

There are times when event planners request one presentation when the audience might benefit more with two or three. Specifically, I’m thinking about anything that benefits from a follow-up session.

For example, a speaker is asked to address an employee audience about burnout mitigation. The employees might benefit from one presentation, but it would be so much more effective if the speaker offered techniques to handle stress, then checked in six weeks later. Or a personal finance expert talks to a group about setting up an emergency savings account. He or she could meet with the group a month later to hold people accountable, track progress, and move on to the next lesson. Another example is change management. One talk won’t guide an organization through a change, but four or six might help greatly.

These additional sessions work best in corporate and organizational/group settings. The speaker can capture a baseline status and return to the same participants to track progress.

Speakers and event planners, give thoughtful consideration when planning presentations with long-term lessons or behavioral shifts. You might have significantly greater impact with more than one.

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

Know the Destination Before the Journey Begins
Know the Destination Before the Journey Begins 672 445 I Need A Speaker

By Tricia Richards-Service

Several weeks ago, I was contacted by an HR representative and asked to deliver a workshop on employee communications for her team. I asked what she would like me to cover. She said, “Just communications. Whatever you think should be included.”

It’s not uncommon that someone requests an expert to sit on a panel presentation, facilitate a meeting, or deliver a speech – yet not know what goal is in mind. I asked the HR representative for more details. Is there a problem? Has something changed recently in your organization? Are you facing specific challenges? Is this related to tech or generational communication? Do your problems have to do with clarity in business communication?

She had to think for a while and was still unsure. I suggested that we do a survey and figure out what the real issues are, and with that information, we can work together to solve them. Employees were very honest in the survey. As a result, we were able to begin the workshop with a review of areas for improvement, then work toward a plan to achieve the team’s goals.

Whether you’re a speaker or an event planner, give thought to your event. Ask yourself what you really hope to achieve. For example, instead of saying you’d like a wellness day for employees, you may want to focus on mitigating burnout. Or instead of requesting a speaker on finance, specify that you’re hoping to help attendees learn more about retirement options in particular.

Every journey starts with the destination. Clarify your goals, and the trip will be much easier.

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

Discover the Light Bulbs and Dim Spaces
Discover the Light Bulbs and Dim Spaces 2200 1529 I Need A Speaker

By Tricia Richards-Service

I was talking with Mandolen Mull, PhD last week, and we talked about audience members’ frequent reluctance to ask questions.

I told her that, during previous presentations, I’ve often handed out index cards and golf pencils. I would collect and shuffle the cards for anonymity’s sake before reading the questions aloud.

She said, “I do something similar! I had cards printed with a light bulb on one side and an image of a darkened room on the other side.” I asked participants what their a-ha moments were, and where they were left in the dark.

This kind of feedback makes great workshops or presentations better and better. Great idea!

 

Photo credit: Image by Pexels

When Audiences Want More, Deliver!
When Audiences Want More, Deliver! 662 445 I Need A Speaker

During a coffee meetup with a new connection, I heard a great compliment about one of the speakers on our directory.

My coffee companion told me how impactful the speaker’s presentation was. “I could have listened to her all day,” she mused. “And when her talk ended, I was craving more.”

I explained that, depending on their contract/agreement with the event planner, speakers may not be able to sell from the stage. That means they are not permitted to sell courses, books, merchandise, or other commercial items.

So what can speakers do to give eager participants more? First, it’s important to check with the event planner to ensure policies aren’t violated. Second, ask the planner what is acceptable. Here are some ideas:

  • Invite participants to contact you with follow-up questions.
  • Offer something free for participants that is relevant to your talk. It may be a link to a longer talk that you’ve posted online. It may be a downloadable journal. It may be a list of resources to learn more.
  • Use a handout with more information.
  • On your closing slide, tell participants where you will appear next.
  • Mingle with the audience before and after your presentation to give them the opportunity to ask questions.
  • If you have a podcast or YouTube channel, include that on your narrative bio and final slide.
  • Announce an informal meetup with you immediately after the event concludes.

It’s important to engage with participants and answer their questions, and it’s also important to respect the policies of the event where you’re speaking. Ask what your options are, and be creative!

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

Speaker Fees: Why “It Depends” Makes Sense
Speaker Fees: Why “It Depends” Makes Sense 668 441 I Need A Speaker

Our team spends hours in conversation with speakers and event planners each week. A topic that comes up frequently is speaker fees. While we understand event planners’ need to find suitable speakers within their budgets, we also understand why speakers need more information before quoting a fee for a specific event.

Speakers need answers to several questions: How much prep and travel time would be involved? How much customization is requested? Will I be allowed to sell courses, books, consulting services, or merchandise? Will I be asked to participate in a media interview? Will the event planner cover travel? How many people will be in attendance?

Many speakers will tell you that they quote a full fee (whatever that amount is) for a corporate event, and they may reduce that fee for non-profit organizations, their alma mater, or a cause which they personally support. They’ll also be up front about their level of experience and current demand.

All of these factors should be considered when setting a fee. Thanks to the event planners who provide as much detail as possible when booking talent for an event. Armed with this knowledge, will the speaker agree to the proposed terms? It depends.

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

In Appreciation of Event Planners Who Outline Speaker Benefits
In Appreciation of Event Planners Who Outline Speaker Benefits 639 431 I Need A Speaker

When it comes to communication between event planners and speakers, some frankly do it better than others. Recently, we reviewed communication from an event planner who clearly outlines what is expected of speakers and what speakers can expect in return. The list went well beyond the discussion of speaker fees.

We loved it. Why? Because parties on both sides would have a clear set of expectations that would eliminate confusion or, in some cases, resentment. It was refreshing to see how this was handled.

The event planner required that speakers would:

  • Present proof of performance, so the planner could book with confidence
  • Adhere to assigned conference sessions without requesting changes
  • Meet all conference deadlines as listed in the communication
  • Avoid making substantial changes to presentation content, format, audio-visual needs, room set-up, or other specifications
  • Refrain from using the speaking opportunity to sell books, courses, merchandise, etc. if not otherwise agreed
  • Give permission for the event planner to audio and/or video record the speakers’ sessions (there is more legalese to this, but you get the general idea)
  • Share only positive or neutral opinions on the conference, its attendees, and its content
  • Be available for promotional opportunities and media interviews, if requested.

In return, speakers at this particular conference could expect:

  • Complimentary conference registration to all events except pre-conference workshops and add-on events
  • Travel expenses to include round-trip economy class far; ground transportation to and from the airport to the conference center/hotel; hotel stay the night prior to the speaker’s presentation and the night of the presentation; cost of speaker’s meals on travel days and day of presentation
  • Professional exposure on the event website and marketing materials
  • An evaluation report with session ratings and feedback after the conference.

Setting expectations early will make the relationship and the event much smoother.

As a speaker or event planner, what additional expectations might you set?

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

Register by Jan 31 for Training and Branding Event in Feb 2024
Register by Jan 31 for Training and Branding Event in Feb 2024 545 431 I Need A Speaker

When our team promotes speakers on the I Need A Speaker directory, the first thing an event planner will say is, “Send me their speaker sheet and sizzle reel.” (If you’re not sure what those are, see our blog post from Jan 1, 2024.)

We know that many speakers have a phenomenal stage presence and a compelling message, but without that proof, buyers may be hesitant. To better position speakers to be booked, we’re pleased to offer a two-day, in-person, cohort-designed training and branding event. Our first event is scheduled for February 8-9, 2024 in Scranton, PA.

Why Invest in Public Speaking Training?

Leadership Enhancement: Empower yourself or your corporate leaders to deliver powerful messages that inspire and influence audiences.
Brand Representation: Ensure that your public-facing representatives embody your brand’s values with clarity, charisma, and confidence.
Increased Visibility: Stand out in your industry as your company spokespersons address audiences at meetings, public events, and conferences.

Package Includes:

  • Electronic press kit (EPK)
  • Logo
  • Hair and makeup services (prior to video recording)
  • Professional headshots
  • Sizzle reel
  • Video evaluation
  • Inclusion in I Need A Speaker marketing reel
  • News release for first speaking event

Program Details:

Cohorts Begin: February 2024

Group Size: Limit of 10 paid participants per cohort, plus one scholarship recipient.

Nationwide Expansion: After their debut event in Pennsylvania, our programs will be offered in various U.S. cities throughout 2024. Stay tuned for dates near you!

Corporate Opportunities: Corporations have the opportunity to elevate their leaders and public-facing personnel with this program. Consider sponsoring participants from your organization, and witness the positive impact on your brand’s image and success. Corporate training is also offered at a discount for groups of 10-12 individuals from the same company. Training takes place on or off site.

To learn more, register for the February cohort, or book corporate training, e-mail info@ineedaspeaker.com. 

 

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

INAS Changes Business Model for 2024
INAS Changes Business Model for 2024 672 445 I Need A Speaker

Looking back, 2023 was an exciting, productive year of growth. I Need A Speaker continues to hit new milestones, changing the way speakers connect with audiences. And we’re doing it one person at a time.

I Need A Speaker was launched in 2020 to solve a problem. I was part of a committee to plan a speaker event. The committee had $1,000 to spend on a speaker, and the team was unable to identify the right speaker based on personal networks. Team members also knew that with just $1,000 to spend, we couldn’t afford to work with traditional speakers’ bureaus to find the right person for our theme, our event, and our audience. Traditional speakers’ bureaus often serve speakers who charge at least $5,000 for in-person events and sometimes $3,000 for virtual events. Then the bureaus add one-third of the speaker fee to cover their services in making the connection. Even at the lower end of their roster, we couldn’t afford any of those speakers. We were at a loss. The discussion around finding a speaker was futile, yet it lasted a painful three hours.

That day, I drove home from the meeting, wondering why there wasn’t a central place to connect qualified speakers at any fee range with the people who want to book them. So I built it.

For the first two years in business, I continually fought the association with any type of speakers’ bureau. I didn’t want my business model to resemble those in any way. In 2023, I participated in a tech business incubator program. As a participant, I was tasked with talking to speakers and event organizers to find out what they really want. I was surprised by what I learned.

Buyers told me that they wanted qualified speakers with the brand materials that reinforce credibility. In other words, people who book speakers want the confidence that comes with – at minimum – a speaker sheet and a sizzle reel. A speaker sheet is a single sheet that includes the speaker’s image, background, credentials, signature talks, and contact information. A sizzle reel is a brief video of the speaker in action, typically speaking before an audience. Some event planners call these materials social proof, and others refer to them as proof of performance. Regardless of the terminology used, planners agree that the materials are a basic requirement to consider booking a speaker.

Speakers told me that they wanted help elevating their skill set and developing their brand. They want to know how the public speaking business works. Often, they ask how to get started and move into progressively more desirable bookings. Speakers also said they view the value of services like those offered by I Need A Speaker are deserving of a 20% commission, paid from the speakers’ fee.

Based on what I learned in this process, I and my advisory board have implemented some changes to our business model.

  1. We will charge a 20% commission on bookings made through our website.
  2. We will offer training and branding packages for emerging speakers.

Our site and services will continue to evolve over time to continue delivering value to the people we joyfully serve.

Wishing you every success in 2024!

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

Eight Ways Public Speaking Helps Build Your Business
Eight Ways Public Speaking Helps Build Your Business 2560 1707 I Need A Speaker

Tap your phone screen or flip open a laptop and search the terms “marketing” or “business growth.” You’ll get thousands of results pointing you toward digital marketing solutions, paid advertising, and sales tactics. Those are all basic elements of many successful marketing approaches. What few people recommend is one of the most effective tactics: public speaking. Let’s talk about why.

  1. Public speaking forces you to organize your thoughts.

Prior to making a presentation, you need to consider what you’d like to share. Ideally, you’ll have an introduction, three to five main body points, and a conclusion. When planning your remarks, you’ll be forced to organize your thoughts in a way that’s easy to share with others.

  1. Public speaking improves communication skills.

Press the “record” button on your phone before practicing your presentations. On playback, you’ll quickly discover if you’re using too much industry lingo or incorporating vague comments. Once you know where you have room to improve, you can make appropriate changes.

  1. Public speaking establishes you as a subject matter expert.

For best results, choose a niche and learn as much as you can about that particular, narrow topic. You’ll become known as the go-to person on that subject, which can potentially drive business your way.

  1. Public speaking allows audience members to feel your passion, enthusiasm, and dedication.

Potential customers or clients can read about you or visit your website, and they’ll come away more informed. Seeing you in person adds emotion to the mix, demonstrating your passion and commitment to your industry, business, and/or mission.

  1. Public speaking builds self-confidence.

Really, it’s true! So many people report feeling anxious (even terrified) about public speaking, but when you know your material well and present often, you’ll experience a stronger sense of self-confidence.

  1. Public speaking generates word-of-mouth referrals.

The combination of your expertise and enthusiasm will resonate with audience members, and they’re likely to tell other people in their network about you. This, in turn, will strengthen your reputation.

  1. Public speaking expands your professional network.

Think about it. People love getting to know other people who share the same values or ideas. They love talking about their work or industry with others who understand it. Prepare for LinkedIn invitations in your inbox after an effective presentation. Better yet – invite the audience to follow you, and see how fast you rack up new connections.

  1. Public speaking helps you better understand your customer or client base.

Allow for time after your presentations to answer questions. As people raise hands or step toward a microphone, you’ll begin learning what questions people have about your business or industry. Use these questions to help guide your communications plan. Maybe you’ll change hang tags or packaging. You may update your website. Or you’ll add a new vehicle to communicate with your customers.

Combined, these benefits pack a powerful punch. Grow your public speaking skills. Grow your exposure. And you’ll grow your business.

 

 

Photo credit: Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels

Join Free in September with Code AMPLIFY
Join Free in September with Code AMPLIFY 1707 2560 I Need A Speaker

We’ve been quiet for a while, and that’s been intentional. Our team devoted a lot of time this summer to creating a plan for growth.

We are working hard for I Need A Speaker to be the global go-to resource for event planners to find the right speakers for their events, and we’re excited to have you in this space. To further that mission, we’re offering you a free one-year membership during September 2022 ($349 value)!

If you’re an event planner seeking diverse speakers or a speaker with expertise to share, join today. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Visit www.ineedaspeaker.com.
  2. Choose “I Am A Speaker.”
  3. Use code AMPLIFY to begin your free, one-year membership.
  4. Complete your profile.
  5. Tell your friends and share this message on your social media accounts.

It’s that easy!

We will do our part to promote I Need A Speaker to help event planners find you. That’s when the magic happens.

 

Photo credit: Pexels

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