• Connecting Speakers with Audiences™

speakers

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

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

This Is the Best Way to Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month
This Is the Best Way to Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month 695 472 I Need A Speaker

It’s Hispanic Heritage Month, and there are so many ways to celebrate:

  • Try Hispanic foods
  • Attend a library program
  • Visit a museum
  • Read a Hispanic author
  • Learn to speak Spanish
  • Support Hispanic-owned businesses
  • Teach Hispanic history (to a class or to your own family)
  • Learn a salsa dance
  • Host a workplace lunch ‘n learn
  • Play iconic Latin songs
  • Start a book club
  • Watch a documentary or film
  • Listen to a podcast (we’re partial to LatinoUSA from NPR)
  • Donate to a non-profit
  • Create your own Latin art

These are all great ideas to keep you entertained and educated during the month-long celebration, but the best suggestion we have is to book a Hispanic speaker.

If you’re an event planner, use our searchable directory to help find the right speaker for your group. Create a free account to search the directory.

If you’re a speaker, join others in our global directory to help event planners find you. Celebrate this special month with a free, one-year membership during September when you use code AMPLIFY.

Keep heritage education going all year long. Register now.

September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day; Mental Health Experts Encouraged to Share Information
September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day; Mental Health Experts Encouraged to Share Information 918 410 I Need A Speaker

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, an annual event that focuses attention on the issue, reduces stigma, and raises awareness among organizations, government, and the public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented. Learn more about the effort here.

If you are a mental health subject matter expert, we encourage you to share helpful information that may prevent tragedy. A listing in our global, searchable directory will help event planners find you. Get a free, one-year membership this month with code AMPLIFY.

 

 

Photo credit: World Health Organization

How Queen Elizabeth II Made Speeches More Effective
How Queen Elizabeth II Made Speeches More Effective 1387 1920 I Need A Speaker

Several years ago, I had the privilege of seeing Queen Elizabeth II in person. A friend and I had traveled to London to see The Rolling Stones in concert, and the event date coincided with Her Majesty’s birthday celebration.

We joined thousands of people who lined the streets to get a glimpse of the royal family as the procession slowly snaked through the city. Pomp and circumstance highlighted the esteemed status of the royals, adding an element to the day that was reminiscent of a fairy tale. The feeling of love and respect for the queen was overwhelming.

When Her Majesty spoke to the beloved crowd, we saw a glimpse behind the castle gates. She would speak of international issues, share hope, and reference a vision for the future.

What made her speeches most effective were the personal anecdotes to which her audience – to which anyone – could relate. Queen Elizabeth II’s Christmas 2021 speech was by far her most personal, as well as her most relatable. Here are some excerpts from her other noteworthy remarks.

If you want to make your presentations more memorable and reach your audience on an emotional level, follow the queen’s lead and share your personal stories.

 

 

Photo credit: Image by WikiImages from Pixabay

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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