Meeting Notes from This Week's Inspiring Talks ππ
Really GREAT call yesterday, folks! Watch it here: Week 6 Inspiring Talks Call MEETING PURPOSE: To discuss speaking strategies, industry trends, and share experiences among professional speakers. Key Takeaways - The speaking industry has evolved, requiring speakers to be versatile "branded experts" offering various services beyond just live presentations - Giving value upfront (free content, introductory talks) can lead to paid opportunities and long-term client relationships - Adapting to virtual platforms and creating digital products (courses, videos) has become crucial for speakers' success - Understanding and addressing clients' pain points (e.g., fear of embarrassment) is key to effective marketing and sales TOPICS: Current State of the Speaking Industry - Shift from traditional stage-only speaking to a multi-faceted "branded expert" model - Importance of adapting to virtual platforms and creating digital products - COVID-19 accelerated industry changes, forcing rapid pivots - Successful speakers now offer a mix of live events, virtual talks, courses, and consulting MARKETING & SALES STRATEGIES: - Offer free or low-cost introductory talks to build trust and showcase value - Address specific pain points in marketing (e.g., Sandi's use of "embarrassment" in advertising) - Build email lists and follow-up systems for long-term client relationships - Create tiered offerings (e.g., Sandi's $8,000 onboarding program leading to higher-value services) ADAPTING TO CLIENTS' NEEDS: - Sandi's example: Offering 30-minute virtual lunch talks for $1,000 to hesitant clients - Importance of being approachable and non-threatening, especially in sensitive topics - Tailoring language and approach to specific industries or cultural contexts PERSONAL EXPERIENCES & SUCCESS STOREIS: - Sandi's pivot during COVID-19: Creating three video courses in two months - Jack's background in business coaching and desire to enter paid speaking - Drew's observations on industry changes since 2007