Stop Waiting for a Magic Wand: Get to Work and Get Booked

OK, this is a rant. If you’re lazy, you may want to skip this because I’ll be stepping on some toes. If want the truth and get real with yourself so you can have success – this is for you.

So, here we go, the biggest mistake I see aspiring speakers make is sitting around, waiting for a magical opportunity to appear out of thin air. They dream of being discovered, hoping that somehow, a fairy godmother of the media world will wave a wand and suddenly book them for major speaking engagements. The reality? There is no magic wand, no overnight sensation.

Success in the speaking circuit requires hard work, dedication, and a strategic approach. Share on X

Many hopeful speakers lack the fundamental assets needed to get booked. They might have the talent, but without visibility, professionalism, and the right branding, they remain invisible to event organizers and decision-makers.

So, what are these crucial elements that one must work on to secure those coveted speaking gigs?

Essential Assets for Getting Booked

1. Professional Website: While a website is not the only tool, it is an essential one. Your website is your digital business card, showcasing who you are, what you offer, and why you are the right choice for an event. And it must be search engine optimized! That’s a whole class lesson by itself.  See this free ebook download.
2. Speaking Reel: A dynamic speaking reel can make a world of difference. Event planners want to see you in action—how you engage with an audience, your delivery style, and the energy you bring to the stage.
3. Speaker One-Sheet: This is your professional brochure. It should include your bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and contact information. A well-designed one-sheet makes it easy for organizers to see your value at a glance.
4. Keynote Signature Messages: Clearly defined keynote topics demonstrate your expertise and the unique insights you bring. These should be compelling and relevant to current trends and audience interests. We share keynote outlines in our programs. 
5. Testimonials and Reviews: Nothing speaks louder than the words of those who have experienced your presentations. Gather testimonials from past clients and participants, and if possible, include video reviews to add a personal touch.
6. Consistent Messaging: Your brand and message need to be consistent across all platforms. Whether it’s social media, your website, or marketing materials, ensure your messaging is cohesive and reflects your professional persona.

Take Action: Pick Up the Phone

One of the most overlooked strategies for getting booked is simply picking up the phone .Call event organizers, introduce yourself, and share your speaking assets. Offer to send your one-sheet, reel, and testimonials. Show them why you are the perfect fit for their event.

The Reality of Pitching

Pitching is not a one-time effort; it’s a continuous campaign. You need to be persistent and strategic. Think of it as running a presidential campaign—brick by brick, minute by minute. Build relationships, follow up regularly, and continually refine your pitch. Network – a lot! 

There Is No Magic Bullet

Let’s be clear: there is no magic bullet, no overnight success. The speakers you see on big stages have spent years, often decades, honing their craft, building their brand, and relentlessly pitching themselves. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Get Professional Help

If this sounds overwhelming, remember you don’t have to do it alone. At Pam Perry PR, we specialize in creating comprehensive campaigns that get you booked. We understand the nuances of the industry and have the expertise to elevate your brand and visibility. But remember, even with professional help, success doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistent effort and dedication. See ReadySetGoSpeak.com.

Final Thoughts

Quit being lazy and waiting for someone to hand you opportunities. Get out there and start working on your assets, pitch relentlessly, and build your campaign with intention and persistence. There is no shortcut to success, but with the right approach and hard work, you can achieve your speaking goals. YOU GOTTA WORK.

For those ready to take the next step, visit pamperrypr.com and let’s start building a campaign that gets you booked. Remember, the only thing that happens overnight is the success of someone who has put in the work for over 10 years.