Choose the right topics
Before you contact an organization about speaking, create sample talk
descriptions with catchy titles. For example, a financial planner could
avoid generic descriptions like "Planning Your Retirement," and use a more
snappy title like "Enjoying Your Gold Years On A Champagne Budget".
Targeting speaking opportunities
Once you are clear about your topic and its benefit to the audience, make
some calls and offer yourself as a speaker. Here are ideas of where to look
for a free podium. Many of these groups need speakers all the time.
- Chambers of Commerce
- Service Clubs
- Industry Specific Associations
- University Extensions
- Professional Associations
Getting the most out of your speech
The promotional value of your talks goes beyond your time on the podium.
Often, when you speak to a group, the group publicizes the event. Many
people who do not attend the event will still read the information, or will
hear about you from other attendees, and may give you a call.
Consistency is the big thing. Getting out there and speaking on a regular basis keeps your pipeline full of prospects. When you're done, put a follow up mechanism in place, even if it's a simple mailing or newsletter. If you keep in contact with people who've heard you speak, you get more long-term leverage from your efforts.
Steven Van Yoder is the author of Get Slightly Famous. He teaches small business owners how to attract more business with less effort by becoming a mini-celebrity in your field. Visit getslightlyfamous.com to claim your FREE Slightly Famous Marketing Plan Workbook.