• Connecting Speakers with Audiences™

Public Presentation

Five Things to Do the Night Before Your Presentation
Five Things to Do the Night Before Your Presentation 670 441 I Need A Speaker

By Tricia Richards-Service

Here are five things speakers should consider doing the night before a presentation to ensure they are well-prepared and confident:

  1. Review and Practice: Go through your presentation one last time to ensure you are familiar with the content. Practice your delivery, paying attention to your tone, pace, and body language.
  2. Check Technology: Ensure that all the technical aspects of your presentation are in order. Test your slides, audio, and any other multimedia elements. Charge your devices and have backup plans in case of technical issues.
  3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep: A well-rested mind is crucial for effective communication. Aim for a full night’s sleep to ensure you are alert and focused during your presentation.
  4. Prepare Materials: Organize and pack any materials you’ll need for the presentation, such as handouts, business cards, or props. Having everything ready in advance will help you avoid last-minute stress.
  5. Relax and Visualize Success: Take some time to relax and visualize yourself delivering a successful presentation. Positive visualization can boost your confidence and help calm any nerves.

Remember, preparation is key, and these steps can contribute to a successful and confident presentation.

 

 

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

Situations Change. Deposits Shouldn’t.
Situations Change. Deposits Shouldn’t. 670 449 I Need A Speaker

By Tricia Richards-Service

Today I was talking with Sybil Stewart, a speaker, advocate, and TEDx organizer. We were discussing how important it is for speakers to charge a non-refundable deposit when being booked.

Experienced event planners and speakers, we know that situations change. Speaker rosters shift. Budgets shrink. Attendance may not be what was anticipated. And speaking engagements might be canceled as a result. We understand.

We also understand that the speaker had blocked off time which may not be scheduled with another client. In the worst case scenario, the speaker may have already completed the prep work.

As this is a relationship business, it’s important for both parties (speakers and planners) to feel comfortable and valued throughout the process.

Requesting a deposit will recover some of the income speakers may lose if an event is canceled or changed. The benefits go both ways. After a speaker is booked with a non-refundable deposit, that speaker is committed, even if another planner reaches out with a bigger budget. Win-win.

 

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

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

If You Like It, Put a Citation on It
If You Like It, Put a Citation on It 656 412 I Need A Speaker

Yes, we’re channeling Beyoncé. We can’t stress enough that if you like the information or graphic you’re using, cite it!

Several years ago, I was in the audience for a presentation that seemed to tick all the right boxes. The speaker had a great topic, wonderful examples, and lots of energy. What he didn’t have was cited sources. There was one graph in particular that caught attendees’ eyes, and someone raised a hand to ask where the speaker located it. The speaker shrugged and said, “I have no idea. I found it on Google.” Ugh. Had the speaker cited the source, it would have saved him from the ultimate oops moment (not to mention potential violation of copyright law).

Here’s the deal – citing sources isn’t just a scholarly thing; it’s your secret weapon to credibility. Think of it as the superhero cape for your presentation. When you drop names, websites, or books that inspired your brilliance, you’re not just showing off your research skills. You’re saying, “Hey, I’m not pulling this out of thin air – there’s some serious brainpower backing me up!”

And guess what? Your audience will love you for it! It’s a nod to transparency and shows you respect the creators who put in the hard work. So, the next time you’re prepping for that epic speech, channel your inner citation champion.

 

Photo credit: Image by Canva

‘A Christmas Carol’ for Public Speakers
‘A Christmas Carol’ for Public Speakers 1829 2560 I Need A Speaker

For fun this holiday season, we imagined what it might be like if Dickens wrote “A Christmas Carol” for public speakers. Would you be chosen to be visited by three spirits tonight?

If so, it may not be because you have a “bah humbug” attitude. In fact, it may be a welcome refresher!

Consider questions you may be asked by the Ghost of Speeches Past: What have you learned along the way that you can use to tweak your message? How could you have better engaged with your audience? What went well, and what might you do differently?

Next might be lessons from the Ghost of Speeches Present. The visiting spirit may ask what you’re doing now to stay current on the topics you cover. Are you using updated examples? Have you considered using new presentation tools?

Our favorite spirit is the Ghost of Speeches Future. That’s because everything that you learned from the past and present will help make you an even better speaker!

We’re not suggesting you awake tomorrow morning and flip open your laptop to get started (but we love your enthusiasm if that’s what you choose to do). We are suggesting that – after you enjoy special time with special people – that you consider past lessons and current updates when planning to take the mic in 2023.

Photo credit: Nadi Lindsay on Pexels

Ten Things Event Planners Have On Their Wish List
Ten Things Event Planners Have On Their Wish List 1707 2560 I Need A Speaker

As we promised, we wanted to talk about some holiday gift ideas for any event planners in your life.  From tech to desk, we have some ideas that we know will make any event planner burst with excitement!

  1. A 2023 planner–  Papier has planners in a variety of colors and sizes to match your recipients’ taste and personality.  

  2. An iPad–  Starting at just $449, an iPad is a wonderful tool to gift.  From sending those early morning emails to creating presentations and offering bookings, this gift will make an event planner’s life a whole lot easier.

  3. Sturdy tote bag–  Get a wide sturdy tote from Baggu. This bag has plenty of pockets with space for wherever the day takes you. It’s also machine washable and made of recycled products!

  4. Desk accessories–  No one wants a boring workspace! Give the event planners in your life candles, plants, or organizers to make their work space feel a bit more like home.

  5. A Pinch Provisions kit–  Need stocking stuffers? With travel sized bags for any emergency, Pinch Provisions kits are a must buy this holiday season (or all year!). Choose from tech kits, work from home kits, travel kits, and so much more.

  6. Bedtime basket–  With long days of work and traveling, it’s important to enjoy some downtime. Fill a basket with all the essentials for a cozy night in: slippers, a sleep mask, blankets, essential oils and some hot cocoa.

  7. Insulated coffee cup–  For those early mornings with no time to stop at Starbucks, give them a travel cup of their own.  Yeti has a 30 oz insulated cup that is customizable and available in many colors.

  8. Magnetic calendar–  Can’t miss the calendar on the fridge!  Amazon has packs for each month of 2023 at can’t beat prices!

  9. Cell phone stand (for the car)-  Left on Main Street, right on Broad!  Make directions easier and safer with a stand for their car.  Check out Amazon for affordable and sturdy options.

  10.  Pens–  For someone who’s always using and losing pens, trust me, they will love this simple gift. Grab a pack of colorful pens to get them through 2023 in style – we’ve chosen some they aren’t likely to lose!

 

 

Photo credit: Yan Krukov on Pexels

Ten Practical Gifts That Will Please Any Speaker
Ten Practical Gifts That Will Please Any Speaker 1707 2560 I Need A Speaker

The holidays are here, and this means it’s time for some shopping.  We know how hard it can be to find the perfect gift for the people in our lives, so we wanted to help.  Let’s look at gifts for public speakers – specifically, things they will always appreciate and will be sure to use!  

  1. An insulated water bottle–  Speakers need to stay hydrated! When it comes to water bottles and commuter cups, we have been loving the Stanley quencher 40 oz tumbler. 

  2. A journal–  Get a personalized journal from Papier for speakers’ travels, schedules and brilliant ideas.

  3. Monogrammed stationery/cards–  The Stationery Studio allows you to personalize with names, monograms, and images.  

  4. Organizer tote–  I suggest the Boat and Tote by L.L Bean.  From small to extra large, offered in neutrals and bright colors, this bag is fashionable and useful. Fill it up with some binders, folders, or some of their favorite treats.

  5. Pro membership on Canva–  Canva is the place to go for creating media posts, preparing slides for speeches, developing your speaker sheet, and so much more.  This subscription will help speakers create content with ease while giving them tools to get creative and bold.  Gift them with this subscription that will become their new best friend (Don’t worry, it won’t replace you).

  6. Digital recorder–  Reviewing and practicing speeches has never been easier.  Get a recorder to help speakers take their words on the go! 

  7. New headphones–  Beats wireless headphones are the way to go for this.  Your favorite speakers are going to need a way to listen to practice recordings while they’re out and about, so it may as well be stylish and fun!

  8. Self-care package–  Remind your speakers that they deserve some down time, too!  Encourage some nice R&R with a care package from a small business on Etsy.  

  9. New luggage–  Away has modern and spacious luggage for someone who is always traveling.  Try the popular Carry-on suitcase, which fits up to a week’s worth of clothing and has 360-degree wheels to move with you wherever you go.

  10. Gift card to their favorite lunch spot–  Break time sandwiches on you!  Panera and Chipotle are always a great go-to for quick midday meals.

Stay on the lookout for our next blog post for gift ideas for any event planners in your life!

 

Photo credit: Thais Araujo on Pexels

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

Get Started

I Am A Speaker
I Need A Speaker

Stay Social
Newsletter Signup

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

©2026 I Need A Speaker®. All rights reserved. Site by Halibut Blue®

Connecting Speakers with Audiences™
Start Typing
Privacy Preferences

When you visit our website, it may store information through your browser from specific services, usually in the form of cookies. Here you can change your Privacy preferences. It is worth noting that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our website and the services we are able to offer.

Click to enable/disable Google Analytics tracking code.
Click to enable/disable Google Fonts.
Click to enable/disable Google Maps.
Click to enable/disable video embeds.
Our website uses cookies, mainly from 3rd party services. Define your Privacy Preferences and/or agree to our use of cookies.