Crafting Impactful Speaking Engagements in 2024: Insights from a 20-Year Public-Speaking Veteran
When I book a speaking engagement, the process begins with a detailed initial call where I gather key information about the client’s needs and outline what I can offer. Following the call, I dedicate about 10 minutes to sketching out the agenda, talking points, and defining the goals for the talk. I also organize my bio, marketing materials, and set reminders in my Google Calendar for deadlines and follow-ups.
In my experience, those initial notes often become the foundation for the final presentation. My intuition and experience guide me in choosing what will resonate best with the audience. I strive to keep things straightforward and effective, avoiding unnecessary complexity.
For a recent November speaking engagement, I applied this approach after a July conversation with the client. This morning, I spent 30 minutes drafting the marketing materials—including the topic, title, and copy for email blasts—as well as the agenda for a 60-minute lunch-and-learn session and a follow-up email for participants. I sent everything to the client and am now awaiting their feedback.
Although November may seem far off, I find that setting my own deadlines helps me work more effectively. Some thrive under last-minute pressure, but I’ve discovered that I do my best work with a proactive, organized approach. How do you work best?
Consider how your ideal self would cultivate their most effective work habits. What strategies or routines would help you excel in your professional and personal endeavors?
