Absolutely! Networking groups and other organizations are always looking for people to speak at their meetings, and this can be a great way to get your name out there. Marketing consultant C.J. Hayden, author of Get Clients Now!, says that public speaking is a powerful way to show prospective clients what you can do. When you stand up and speak to a group of people about organizing, they get to see not only your expertise, but your passion for what you do. Each person in the audience, and every person they know, is a potential future client. In addition, if the event is well promoted, your name will be seen by an even greater number of people who may contact you at a later date.
Of course, there’s a bit more to it than simply showing up and talking about getting organized! To reap maximum benefit from your speaking opportunities, just like any other business activity, you need to set goals and develop a plan to reach those goals. Fortunately, there’s an excellent resource on this topic.
Porter Knight, a professional organizer and speaker with over 12 years experience, has written a 33-page workbook to share with you the secrets of her success. Get Paid to Win Clients: Public Speaking as a Marketing Tool for the Professional Organizer guides you through the process of identifying your goals, locating potential audiences, and developing your presentation. Porter also discusses the impact of your vocal and visual image and the use of visual aids to support what you say. Complete with checklists and self-tests, at only $16.75, it’s a wealth of information, and you can order your copy right here!
If you’re intimidated by the thought of standing up and speaking in front of a group of people, you’re not alone. Remember what Jerry Seinfeld said about this?
According to most studies, people’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right? This means to the average person, if you go to a funeral, you’re better off in the casket than doing the eulogy.
Keep in mind that most people are afraid of speaking in public, even some of the great professional speakers you’ve enjoyed listening to! The good news is that the more you do it, the more confident you become. Believe me – I’ve been there! Shortly after launching my organizing business, I was asked to give a presentation on Time Management at my local Chapters store. I was terrified, and it probably showed, but I got through it. And once I had my material prepared and understood what did and didn’t work, I was able to fine tune it and continue offering it to other groups. I only wish I’d known about Porter’s book much earlier so I didn’t have to learn the hard way!
When you’re ready to reap the benefits of this powerful yet inexpensive marketing tool, be sure to order your copy of Get Paid to Win Clients.
