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Tips for getting started as a public speaker

Hi all,
I thought it might be interesting to hear what tips everyone has on this topic. How do you get started? What works? What doesn't work?

I'd like to keep this open as a discussion thread, but I just wanted to say that I just published a 10-part series of articles entitled, "10 steps to getting started as a motivational speaker" on my blog. It's based upon my own experiences as a freelance musician, lecture tour coordinator and (more recently) motivational speaker. You can find it at the link below, and recieve all 10 articles to your inbox (one per day) if you sign up.

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Blog: http://give-receive-become-be.com

In the mean time, I look forward to all of your tips. I am always looking to find out more from others!

Warm wishes,
Lynn

P.S.: The first article in the series is also posted in my blog here on this network.

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Maria Peagler on January 12, 2009 at 6:04am

Hi Lynn -

Thanks for starting this discussion. My experience is it's not enough to be an expert on a topic or to be published. You have to network, and establish those true relationships that benefit others, looking out for what you can do for your contacts, instead of just making another speaking relationship. Start small, speaking locally, and sometimes for free, if necessary. Just make sure you barter for publicity, other contacts in the area, and time to sell your book in the back of the room.

Also, authors are often dismal speakers. My background is in training and development, so I come from the school of experience here. Make sure your talk is dynamic, engaging, and interesting. Be yourself, but your most interesting one. Toastmasters is a great way to improve your speaking skills.

Maria
www.colormastery.com
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