Although it’s commonly felt that speaking in front of large groups can make most anyone nervous, in business many of us look for speaking opportunities, especially at a conference or trade show event. Whether serving as a keynote speaker, or a breakout session or workshop, a speaking engagement can be good for you, and your company.
In my own limited speaking experience, I have been fortunate to have been actively sought out to speak, i.e., I didn’t have to solicit a speaking slot. But, what about those opportunities that you would like to pursue, but didn’t know how to go about getting the chance to speak?
One place to start is with an abstract (of your topic) to be submitted to the conference organizers, or organization leaders where you wish to participate in their event or activity. In her blog Post titled “Why Didn’t I get that Speaking Slot?”, Lacey Caldwell of Connect2 Communications lays out 5 tips that can help you avoid the rejection of not being considered in the first place.
What stood out for me in her Post was Tip #3, “Don’t mention your products!” What? You have to tell people that? Nothing like the obvious! But, as Caldwell points out so well, it’s the obvious that needs the most attention, e.g., in Tip #5 she points out, “If you can’t bring the CEO, don’t submit the CEO.”
If you are looking for some straightforward advice on soliciting speaking slots, these 5 tips from Caldwell might be just what you need to secure a slot at the next event.
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