Speak Up

Position yourself as an expert by becoming a speaker. When you speak, let your clients know. Follow up after and discuss the tips you gave at the event.

Opportunities to be heard will avail themselves through your association with trade groups and business organizations where your customers and prospects regularly gather.

• Trade Shows
• Conferences and Conventions
• Chamber Business Expos
• Civic Organizations

There are many business and civic organizations that have a monthly or even weekly speaker schedule to fill. Simply contact the officer responsible for programs and set a date.

Prepare a professional presentation, stick to a non-sales approach, and choose a topic that is current and of value to your audience. Throw in some extras to help create a more memorable experience for the listener and make it easy for them to contact you in the future.

• Supply pens and paper with your logo and phone number
• Provide cold bottled water wrapped in a customized Koozie
• Offer a door prize (not a sample or gift certificate from your business)

If you invite customers to hear your presentation, be sure to follow up with them for feedback afterward. If they were invited but unable to attend, follow up with a packet containing the promotional items offered and an outline of the talk you gave.

Finally, if you can see the benefits of becoming a speaker but would rather face a firing squad than stand in front of a group and talk, you might want to check into your local chapter of Toastmaster’s International: www.toastmasters.org