So, You Want to be a Professional Speaker? III

The third and final part of my professional speaker series!

In case you missed the others - Part One & Part Two

If you've been following along, you have your platform, speaking topics, and know where you want to speak!

Now to the detail items...

There are a few items you will need before you start calling on prospective clients.

1 - Business card

You may have one representing you, the author - but you need one that represents you, the speaker!
Now, these can be one and the same if you do not use your book cover on the card. Why not? Well, you're not talking about your books, remember? You are a subject matter expert! Your card will look more professional without your book cover.

Just for an example, I scanned in the front and back of mine:

It's not the perfect card, but it gives you an idea of what information you want to include.

Go for quality! High gloss & color. And NEVER put your home phone number on the card - use your cell phone or dedicated line.

2 - Brochure

You can land gigs without one - I did  in the beginning - but as you expand, you'll want a professional brochure if you hope to land bigger gigs. Discuss your uniqueness as a speaker, what you can do for that business/organization/etc, list your speaking topics, short bio, and contact info.

Again, just for an example, here is one side of my tri-fold:

On the inside, two flaps list my six seminars/speaking topics and the other flap has my bio. That is also where I mention my books.

3 - Website

Again, as you grow, you'll want a professional website dedicated just to you, the speaker. What went into the brochure goes on the website - plus a press room, appearances and references, articles, etc. Yes, you can list your books here if they pertain to your topic(s.) My site has my non-fiction book, but not my YA series. A video of you giving a talk is a must when you really start to grow. (No, I don't have one up yet - it's on my to-do list!)

Again, just as an example, my speaker site is at Spunk On A Stick
You want to see some really good ones, Google speakers such as Tony Robbins, Joyce Meyers, etc.


You may need props for your topics, so don't forget your visual aids.

A great organization to consider is the National Speakers Association. They have chapters in every state. You must qualify to be a member though, by making so much as a speaker or speaking at X amount of paid events a year. (That gives you a goal to shoot for!!)

Here's another bonus to professional speaking - back of room sales. And when people can hear you speak, if your book relates to your topic (especially if it is non-fiction) they will be more apt to purchase your book.

Now, you are armed and ready and know what you need!

Next week - the wrap-up. How Spunky got started... and some funny stories along the way!