"I Prefer Boring and Inexperienced Speakers at Conferences" - Said No Event Attendee Ever!

The argument between content and style continues....

A friend recently attended an event where the keynote speaker was awful.  She said something to the meeting organizer who replied "yes, but he is so smart, it does not matter.... look at the content he shared.  We were all lucky to be here".  My friend disagreed and was told she did not understand the modern conference.... that everyone knows that "content is king".  YIKES.

I am not saying content does not matter.  YES, we must have valuable information at conferences --- but that is not the whole story.  If the goal is to share content we can just email a white paper and save the attendees a lot of time, money and travel hassles.  A live event is an experience, and the little things can have a big impact.  The speakers (keynotes and breakouts) set the tone for the whole event.

Speaking is a skill.  To call someone a "speaker" means they understand how to educate, inspire and motivate an audience.   I know that "motivation" has become a bad word,.... but think about the opposite of "motivation" (de-motivating, sluggish, sucks the energy out of the room).... and nobody wants those words assigned to their conference.

Being a "speaker" is not only about having words come out of your mouth... or everyone qualifies as a speaker.  It can take over 300 presentations to match Malcolm Gladwell's "10,000 Hour Theory " from the book Outliers..... experience and long-term commitment impacts skill.

Just because someone is smart, or has done something cool --- it does NOT mean they belong on stage.  It is not too much to expect both content and speaking skills (and experience).

What do you think?  What was special about the best presentations you have seen at a conference?

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Speaker Mastermind Meet Up

It is not a secret that I credit part of my success as a professional speaker to my involvement with the National Speakers  Association.  It is not that the association itself does anything that directly brings me business, but I have had the opportunity to meet so many talented professionals at all levels of experience, that I have become a better speaker, a better business owner, and a better person from what my peers consistently teach me.

In addition to my participation in the national association, I am involved with the Austin Chapter of NSA, and I am on the board of a "virtual chapter" within NSA called "NSA XY" (we are not officially recognized as a chapter, but we operate in a similar manner).  The XY group is made up of speakers born in 1964 or later (and while some like to say it is a group of "younger speakers", the oldest in our group are quickly approaching 50-years-old - so it is NOT about age!).

Recently the NSA XY hosted a "Meet Up".  These informal day-long gatherings have been held from time to time around  the country for several years (with the majority of them being held in Chicago).  The purpose of a Meet Up is to bring together speakers to share best practices, engage in discussions about the business, and brainstorm ideas to help each other expand business.  It is also about friendships.  Speaking can be a lonely profession, as no two speakers I know have identical business models.  We work alone, travel alone, and often only see the industry from our own lonely vantage point.  For those of us who have forged connections with other speakers, we see the network as a powerful tool to stay informed and a way to push forward to the cutting edge.

Having never before attended a Meet Up, I was not sure what to expect.  Some of my peers (mainly non-NSA speakers) question what I can gain from spending time with other speakers?  Since many in attendance were already friends, would it be too social?  Was there any way to measure success?  

WOW is the only word I have to describe the experience.  I not only got to learn from my peers, but the group helped me clarify an idea for a new program that closely aligns with my experience and my passion.  Alone I had spent weeks trying to shake out the specifics for a new topic, and together we came up with the idea in twenty minutes.  This is the power of being open to coaching, but also it was a powerful exercise in how people can accomplish more together than alone.

No matter what your industry, I encourage you to get involved in an association of your peers.  Too many people sneer at their competition, but my experience show that those who share your path can be the best asset in your future success.

There were 12 speakers involved in this day-long mastermind session.  I encourage anyone who reads this blog post to click on each of the names below.... as it will expose you to some incredible people who are doing great things.  If you are looking to hire a speaker, anyone of them would be a wise choice.... as they are more than "experts", they are speakers who are dedicated to their craft.  

Craig Price

Mike Dilbeck

Jessica Pettitt

Thom Singer
Michele Payn-Knoper
Eliz Green
Patty Hendrickson
Phil Gerbyshak
Ben Neiburger
Chip Lutz
Sarah Beth Aubrey
Gerry O'Brion

Have A Great Day

thom singer

How to Vet Speakers

Finding the right speaker for an event is paramount to the success of the conference.  Speakers do more than just share content, they set the tone for the whole meeting.  But finding speakers who can have the right impact is getting more difficult, as more people are calling themselves speakers.

As a speaker I know that I am not the right fit for every event, yet I also am an attendee at many events.  I am perplexed sometimes as to how a speaker ever ended up on the stage.  Matching up topics and experience to the goals of the conference are paramount to the success, and speakers must be chosen for more than filling a  slot on the agenda.  It can be painful if the speaker is awful.

Then there is the long-suffering debate between the idea of content vs. style.  I have always argued that it is not an "either / or" decision, as the best presenters bring both.  It is not too much to expect the people you put on stage to have the ability to communicate and inspire the audience.  Your event is more than an 8th grade book report!

Yet I still hear the cry that "Content is King".... and many people are capitalizing on this by marketing themselves as "Content Speakers".  After all, what meeting planner does not want content?  But is content alone enough?   Content is not king... it is more like mayor.  It is important, but alone is not fully capable of doing everything.

The term "Motivational Speaker" has been marginalized - as many who are not focused on the audience experience have tried to make "motivation" a negative term.  They push professional speakers aside and define them as "fluff" (not true).  

Besides, what is the opposite of motivation? ---  "De-motivation"?  "Blah"?  "Sucks the energy out of the room"?  

What planner would want their conference seen in that light?  (I have never seen an event professional brag that they plan boring events, but we seem to attend lots of conferences that meet this description!).  

The reality is that all speakers should be motivational speakers, as without a call to action (or other impact on the audience) the presentation is reduced to a "talking white paper".  ***I am not saying content is not important, but so is the speakers ability to captivate!!!  Do not let you organizing committee settle for less than both content and pizzazz if you want a great conference.

Remember.... learning is not just about dumping data into the air.  People learn in a variety of ways, and how the speaker engages the audience will make a difference on if anyone retains information or takes action when they get home.

Vetting speakers is key to finding someone who can provide the right mix of information and still connect with the soul of the audience.  My mantra is "Just because someone is smart, or has done something cool -- it does NOT mean they belong on stage".  We have to go beyond a resume to determine if someone is the appropriate speaker for an event.

How does one vet a speaker?  Seeing them live is often the best way to know if their presentation is going to be a fit for your conference.  Reality is that not every planner can see every speaker, so we then move to relying on others recommendations.  Speakers Bureaus a good option, but can be limited.  The best way to find speakers is to ask your network of other event professionals whom they have seen live and / or worked with at their own events.  Beyond the speakers presentation, how did they engage with the audience?  Were they easy to work with before, during and after the event?   Would the planner hire them again?

Another good idea is to ask the prospective speaker for a list of the last 50 places they have presented.  If they have not delivered that many talks, or if that list goes back more than a few years, you at least want to know these details about their level of experience (this is NOT a reason pass on hiring them, but you need to know how often they speak to make an informed choice).  Some people are naturals, others must hone their skills.  I believe for many people it can take hundreds of presentations to master the art of speaking at large conferences.

To vet properly means digging deep, asking questions, and doing research.  Anyone can call themselves a speaker, but few can "wow" an audience.  I recently spoke at an event where I met another keynote speaker.  He privately shared this was the second presentation of his career.  When he took the stage it was clear he was not really what the organizers had assumed they were getting when they booked him to speak.  He was intelligent, but people were walking out of this talk.  Experience can make a difference.

5 Tips To Vet A Speaker:

1.  Watch them speak live, or make sure someone you know and trust has witnessed their presentation.  Watching a video is nice, but it does not give you the full perspective.  You would not marry someone you met in an online dating website without some live interaction (I would hope!).

2.  Ask them about their experience and get a list of former conferences where they have been the speaker.  Two Rotary clubs and four months in Toastmasters does not necessarily make them ready for prime time on your main stage.  Take the time to call several of their former clients and ask questions about the whole experience of working with the speaker.

3.  Have an extended conversation with them by phone or Skype.  Discovering their personality off-stage can often be as important as how they speak on stage.  A detailed chat can put both parties at ease that their is the right match for the speaker and the conference.

4.  Find out in advance how long they intend to participate in your event.  Do you want them to be engaged with your audience before and after their time on stage?  If you want them to stay for the day, make sure you communicate this with them while negotiating the contract. Participants often like to talk with speakers, and if you desire their participation you need to let them know in advance.

5.  Share with them the vision and goals for your event and get the speaker engaged as a partner in the success of the entire conference.  How can they help you promote the event and build community?  Make sure they see themselves as more than a hired gun or an interchangeable vendor.

Embrace the special place that your speakers play in the success of your event.  Seek out people who line up with the culture of your organization, and those who are willing to make you a priority in their schedule.  

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections. http://www.conferencecatalyst.com 

Motivation Is NOT A Bad Thing

Over the past few weeks I have seen several people slam the idea of "Motivation" when it comes to speakers.  I realize that a few weak cheer-leading tactics in the business world, disguised as motivation, is what has people sometimes feeling "icky" about the concept.  However, motivation is a good thing... when defined correctly!

Content vs. motivation is a silly argument, as there are few examples of speeches that are pure motivation.  Without content there is nothing there at all.  A speech is not the best way to convey high level content, as it would be better to email a White Paper. Speeches rely on the interpretation of each individual audience member.  All speakers should be motivational speakers, as without a call to action a speech quickly becomes a book report, brag, or data dump.  

Admittedly, some content sucks, but that is a discussion for a different blog post. 

Motivational speakers get a bad wrap (thanks Chris Farley!). In advance of an event people claim they care most about the "content" at conferences, which cause organizers to seek smart people who have done cool things.  But that does not always connect with ability to relate their stories to an audience.

The rub is that when sitting in the audience people do want style, experience and motivation from the keynote speakers and breakout leaders (coupled with their high level content).  Content alone can get dull very fast.  The opposite of motivation is not a good thing for the success of a conference.  

What is the opposite of motivation? -  De-motivating? Stifling? Sucks the energy out of the room?  None of these are what conference organizers want in their marketing materials.

(My mantra is "Just because someone is smart, or has done something cool.... it does NOT mean they belong on stage".)

Yet it is not too much to ask for those who make presentations to provide both useful and interesting content coupled with the ability to connect to an audience.  You can - and should - have both content and style in all presentations.  When people learn to improve their speaking skills it is an investment in their future audiences.

When people disrespect the idea of "motivation" they often can have a self agenda going on in the background.  They can be the ones who want to prove they are the smartest person in the room or they are misunderstanding what it is to provide motivation to people.  The "smartest" focus takes the spotlight and puts it on the stage, instead of on the audience.  The real stars of a conference are the participants.  When an audience member is motivated, it is something they know in their core.  It is individual. Not, as some claim, a false group feeling of fluff.  Saying that undermines the legitimate feelings of the people in the chairs, and demotes them to sheep.

I agree that there are speakers who play on the emotions of people and manipulate... but these are few and far between, and their tactics should not make the rest of the us sit through talks by those who are not invested in the audience.  A blah speech is an opportunity lost for everyone.

If we are really planning events that are about the people who attend, we need to put motivation side by side with content.  To allow speakers to suck the energy out of the room is a crime.  Not good.

What do you think.  This topic often can stir emotions, and I welcome those with differing ideas to let me know your two cents.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

What I Enjoy About Being A Professional Speaker and Trainer -- EVERYTHING!

In the past several weeks I have been asked the same question by three different people:  "what do you hate about being a speaker?"

The question seemed to center around the parts being a professional speaker and trainer that some may not enjoy - such as travel hassles, going through TSA security, uncertainty of work, parties a ton of strangers, unfamiliar hotels, demanding clients, etc....

It was interesting to me that I could not think of a single thing I hate about being a speaker.  I love all of it.  Seriously, it still thrills me that I can earn a living doing something I enjoy.

Yes, a long line at an airport or a flight snafu is not a joy, but I know it is part of the whole experience and I plan for delays and take it all in stride.  Being away from my wife and kids is not ideal, but when I am not on the road I have more free time than I did when I worked in a corporate job, so there are decent trade offs.

There is nothing in my role that I hate, or even strongly dislike.  I am honored to be part of the meetings and speaking industries and still get excited with each new client and every new project.  I have delivered 56 presentations in 2012 (from small local talks to major international conferences) and I have not had a single experience that would make me question my career choice.

That being said, not every talk goes just how I would want it, and not everyday is filled with birds chirping in sunny skies.  Yet, I smile knowing that this is my job, and I like to believe that the audiences I serve can tell that I am thrilled to be with them each and every time.

I love being a speaker and trainer.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

The Best Speakers Tell Stories

I have said it before... and I will say it again:

"Just because someone is smart or has done something cool -- it does not mean they belong on stage"

The argument over content vs style in conference speakers is silly.... as it is not too much to expect BOTH from those who present.

Yes, information and learning are key factors to a good presentation, but alone they are not much worth remembering.  While in advance of the event people claim that content is king, when they are sitting in a long presentation they desire some speaking style embedded inside the person talking.

Often we sit through presentations that are simply data dumps.  I recently experienced this and I watched as the speaker proved his credibility and sited study after study.  There was nothing in his presentation that was about the audience.  It was just statistics and quotes coupled with charts and graphs.  While the speaker had a naturally pleasing personality that came through in his talk, he had not invested any effort into polishing his style to connect with the crowd.  He referred to his own book so many times that most in the audience wanted to scream "YES, we know you wrote the book".

I do not think anyone in the audience was challenged to think or ponder.  It was just information.  There was no call to action, but worst of all there were no stories about how his theories work in the real world.  A whole presentation without an single anecdote.  He made it clear he was the smartest person in the room, and if that was his goal then he gets an "A+".

People learn through stories.  If we look back to ancient times the tribal leaders did not show pie charts and excel spreadsheets. They told stories.  We are wired to remember stories.  I once read about a study referenced in Discover Magazine (July 2010) that said that the brains of story tellers and those listening actually sync up.   Without stories a speaker is not necessarily on the same page with those listening.

If a speaker is a "Talking White Paper" then we miss out on the ability to have a meaningful experience.  Data without a story is orphaned from the stage.  The speaker is cutting it off from being effective.  If we only are there to receive data the speech is better served as a PDF that is emailed to the audience.

Most people understand my reference to the "Talking White Paper" because that is who takes the stage at countless events.  We do not love these talks, but we get caught up in the "smartness" and fail to complain.  Thus we get the same thing time after time.

"Talking White Papers" are often forgotten before the attendee's heads hit their pillows.  Those who can create an emotional link through the use of story are remembered into the future.  It is not just about the speaking style (YES, YES, YES - we want content).... but it certainly makes a difference in how we experience the conference attendee experience.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections.  http://www.conferencecatalyst.com 

www.ConferenceCatalyst.com

10 Tips for Being the Master of Ceremonies

A friend and fellow speaker called me recently and asked my advice about being a Master of Ceremonies.  She will be doing this for a major awards luncheon, and while she is an experienced presenter, she had not taken on this role in the past.  As someone who cares deeply about serving her audiences, she did not want to "wing-it", and thus was collecting best practices and ideas.

Being an Emcee (or is it MC?) is different from being a speaker.  I have served as the MC for several events, and find that it involves a different set of skills from giving a speech, but at the same time a good Master of Ceremonies needs similar traits to a speaker.  In many ways the MC role can be more difficult.

When I think of how an MC can make a difference in the success of an event I am reminded of the Academy Awards.  Over my life I have seen a variety of celebrities host the Oscars, but nobody (in my opinion) holds a candle to Billy Crystal.  Mr Crystal sets the tone for the event on the years they are wise enough to ask him to serve as the host.  Other years we are left thinking "I wish Billy Crystal was the MC".

My "Conference Catalyst" program is often morphed into an MC style role at multi-day events.  This means that I am juggling educational / motivational material with the important tasks of introducing the speakers and keeping the whole schedule running on time.  When you have to balance between both roles (speaker and MC), it can be a juggling act....and I mean juggling knives or fire.  There is a lot to do as the MC, and a slip up can cause the vibe of the meeting to hit the floor.

If you are going to be the Master of Ceremonies for an event, here are ten tips that will help you contribute to the success and help give your audience a good experience:

1.  Prepare for an opening.  If you just come out and start the introductions there is now show.  The Olympics do not just start with some folks running races or lifting weights.  They have a choreographed opening ceremonies.  You need the same thing.  Crafting a pertinent story that draws in your audience before you get into the mundane (but necessary) tasks of thanking the sponsors and honoring guests is a great way to launch.

2.  Remember that you are not the star of the show.  When you deliver a speech, there is a part of the role that requires you to take center stage, but as MC it is not your time in the spotlight.  You are there to keep things moving and to make sure the others on the program (or the award winners) are celebrated.

3.  Your personality sets the tone for the event.  While #2 holds true (you are not the star), you still set the pace.  If you are buttoned up and serious, you can be sure the whole show will be stiff.  If you are all over the map without purpose, .... there will be no focus.  Find a happy medium, while putting out a high-energy vibe.

4.  If you are not a professional comedian, do not tell jokes.  A big mistake is made when people think a joke is the key to putting an audience at ease.  Nothing is worse at an event than seeing an amateur bomb a canned punch line.  Humor is important, but do not force it. Be yourself, and avoid the one liners!

5.  When giving the microphone to others, make sure they have a time frame for their remarks.  An award winner who rambles on and on will bury your momentum.  If you cannot brief the other speakers in advance, work in some instructions about how much time they have.  When appropriate do not walk far from the lectern.  If you are standing close, they will keep their remarks brief.  If you walk away they will talk forever.

6.  Have transitions between speakers or award winners.  A great way to transition is to give a short recap or compliment of what was said by the person before, and then set up the next presentation.  Have stories prepared in advance about those you will be introducing (if possible) so that you have something to add each time you speak.

7.  Be prepared.  If someone does not show up, or if a waiter drops a tray... be prepared for how you will handle the confusion, etc...  Live events often have things that can be a distraction.  The key to being a good MC is to keep control of the meeting no matter what happens.

8.  Shorten the script.  If the meeting organizer gives you a script that is horrible, make changes. Your job as MC is to ensure the event is not boring.  If the program flops you will be blamed for the poor reviews, not the person back at the home office who wrote the words.  Thus you must be involved in creating a tight script that has a good tempo or be able to make changes as you are on stage.

9.  Stay positive.  Even if something goes wrong or someone is out of line, the MC must stay up-beat.  If you get nasty about anything the audience will resent you for it.

10.  Have a prepared close.  Just like the opening ceremonies, you need to tie it together with a closing story or a call to action.  Recap the highlights of the evening, and challenge the audience in some way (even if it is to come back next year!).  If you have no closing ceremony then there is little to remember.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Thom's Top Ten Tips For Finding The Right Speaker For Your Event

I was asked this week by a meeting planner for my advice on how to find additional speakers for an event that will "wow" her audience. The below is from my email response.  What do you think?  What did I leave out?

Thom Singer's Ten Tips For Finding The Right Speaker For Your Event

1.  Just because someone is smart or has done something cool does not mean they belong on stage.


2.  If you hire speakers, always be seeking ideas for those who can present.  Keep a file so you have a list on hand when it comes time to make your selection.


3.  Know your budget and be upfront with the speaker.  Fee negotiation does not need to be adversarial.


4.  If you financially compensate some speakers and ask others to speak for free, be open about your policy.


5.  When asking a speaker to discount their regular fee, know what you will you offer in return.  "Exposure" from the speech alone may or may not actually have value.


6.  Invite your speakers to be a partner in the success of your event, not simply to speak and leave.  Discover if the speaker plans to participate with your attendees at breaks, meals, happy hours, etc...  How will they engage with your audience via social media before, during and after?


7.  Ask how many presentations a speaker has given in last two years.  Experience matters.


8.  Be willing to integrate topics that are not the "same old / same old".


9.  How do you want your speaker to be dressed?  In today's uber-casual environment you should communicate what the speaker should wear.  Have the conversation upfront to avoid being surprised if they are over-dressed or under-dressed.


10.  Have an extended conversation with the speaker to understand their personality and make sure there is a connection.  If you do not "click" on the phone, follow your gut instinct.


Have A Great Day.


thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections.  http://www.conferencecatalyst.com 

www.ConferenceCatalyst.com

Law Firm Partner Retreat Speaker

If your law firms is seeking an educational and motivational speaker who will inspire your team and create meaningful conversation on how to navigate growth in your business community.... look no further.


My experience in business, marketing, coaching and consulting includes considerable time working with attorneys.  I worked inside two AM LAW 100 firms in marketing and business development roles, and since launching my consulting and speaking business I have worked with hundreds of lawyers.


Law schools do not teach basic business skills, causing many to mistakenly assume that marketing is not important to a successful practice.  Understanding how  to create a personal brand, network, sell their services, and present themselves to the community can seem "easy", but are frustrating to many lawyers who would prefer to do good work and serve interesting clients.


I will engage the partners and associates in your firm in a way that many have never experienced.  Challenging how they have looked at the power of business relationships, I will leave them better situated to grow their reputation and discover more business opportunities.


More information at www.ThomSinger.com.  (512) 970-0398.  thom (at) thomsinger.com.


Have A Great Day.


thom singer

Speaker for Austin or San Antonio Meeting

Lately I have been seeing more inquiries from meeting professionals who are looking for a keynote speaker or breakout presentation for company or association meetings in my local market.

These conference organizers find me via a search for motivational and educational speakers who live in the Austin or San Antonio area or they inquire to speakers bureaus about who lives in Central Texas.  Some seek ways to save on travel expenses while others prefer to have speakers at their conference who have ties to the community and can provide a local flavor in the presentation.

In most cities local companies often prefer to hire speakers from outside their area, as there is a perception that "the definition of an expert is anyone with a boarding pass".  But national conferences being held a destination city are seeming to be looking for more local speakers.

(That being said, I do sales skills training and presentation skill training classes for many local businesses).

I speak all over the United States (and have presented in three other countries), but do enjoy the opportunity to work close to home.  It allows me to continue my mission to reach more audiences with the "Conference Catalyst" program and spread the message of "Choose People In A Social Media Crazy World" while not spending too much time away from my family.

There have also been several times when I have been contacted as an "emergency speaker" to fill in at an event where the scheduled speaker became ill or missed a flight.

Speaking in my local market is a win / win situation.

For more information, visit www.ThomSinger.com or www.ConferenceCatalyst.com

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Reverse Engineering Speaker Selection

Speakers set the tone for conferences, trade shows, seminars, and conventions.  Most meetings utilize one or more speakers to educate, inspire and motivate the attendees.  The right speaker can transform the audience experience.  Speakers should WOW and audience... not be BLAH.

Too often speakers are selected without much thought to the overall desired outcome of what is desired after they conclude their talk.  There is a lot of chat in the meetings industry for the need for "content", but content is not king.  Author Cory Doctorow said it best, "Conversation is king.... content is just something to talk about".  Content alone can be very dull.  If the information is better presented in a White Paper, then that should be how it is delivered.  Communication skills and the ability to connect with an audience can take content to a whole other level. 

The days of a brilliant speaker coming and presenting information to the uneducated audience are long gone.  Those who attend meetings are much more sophisticated and have a variety of access points to information.  They are often well versed in the subjects presented, and they want to be engaged in the conversation, not preached to by a "Sage on the Stage".

Before a speaker is selected there needs to be a discussion about the desired outcome of how they impact the meeting.  This will vary for each organization, but those making decisions need to probe deeper about what they really want from each keynote, breakout and luncheon speaker they put on the agenda.

Desired outcomes might include:

* We want the audience to learn something new that they can implement immediately.

* We want the attendees to feel they had a connection to the speaker and the conference.

* We want people to talk about the topic and the speaker in the hallways.

* We want the evaluations to include many written comments about the session (not just checking the boxes).

* We want the speaker to stay engaged in the event an participate at breaks and meals.

* We want people to tweet, blog, and post to Facebook and other social media communities about what they heard in the presentation.

* We want the audience to go home and tell co-workers (and others) about what they learned at the conference.

* We want people to proclaim to all about the high level of learning and fun they experienced at the event.

* We want each speaker to deliver an ROI equal to the entire investment.

* We want people talking about the speaker next year.

(what other desired outcomes might be added here?)

These desired outcomes do not match up with the following questions that are sometimes asked by those seeking speakers:

1.  Can we get the speaker for free or at a discount?

2.  Can we charge speaker for their conference registration fee?

3.  Can we get vendors to pay us to put one of their employees on our stage?

4.  Is the speaker famous enough for our board to approve?

5.  Can we shorten the time we give the speaker to 15 minutes to make our conference "like" a TED Conference?

6.  Do they have direct experience in our industry?

7.  Does the speaker have the right title or degree? 

8.  Will a someone call us into question or make us defend hiring this speaker?

(what other questions are people asking that do not lead them to the desired outcome?)

When starting with the desired outcomes it leads to a whole other set of questions?

1.  Who has seen this speaker and were they impressed beyond the normal level?  Can we call other conference organizers and ask them about the speaker?

2.  How many presentations has this speaker given to similar sized events in the last two years?

3.  How many organizations have invited the speaker to return to present at future events?

4.  Will the speaker stay beyond their presentation and engage with attendees (or do they leave for airport quickly after they conclude their talk).

5.  Will the speaker engage with the audience via social media before, during and after the event

6.  Does the speaker have books, CD's, and other programs? And do they give information or simply set up the sell from the stage?

7.  Does the speaker challenge the audience with a call to action, or simply provide information?

8.  How does the speaker engage the crowd (besides Q&A at the end of the talk)?

9.  Will this speaker have in immediate impact on the audience?

(what other questions should organizing committees be asking?)

These days there are lots of speakers to choose from for those planning events.  This is not necessarily a good thing, as a speaker is NOT a commodity.  Plenty of people who speak are not skilled at impacting the hearts and minds of the audience, and thus it is easy to select the wrong speaker.  The sad part is this is not discovered until after the conclusion of the presentation.  A bad speaker will suck the energy out of the room.

It takes a lot of work to vet the right speaker and ensure they will boost the engagement level of the whole event.  This level of inspection of the abilities of those who will take the stage is not just for the keynote, but for everyone conducting a breakout and panel discussion.  For larger conferences this can mean a daunting amount of work, but it is worth it.  Nobody is ever disappointed when a speaker brings both content and style to a presentation.  When people learn valuable information and are "WOWWED"... everyone wins.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Thom Singer is known as "The Conference Catalyst". He works with meeting planners and conference organizers to set the tone for a meeting. His presentations educate, inspire and motivate attendees to engage deeper in the event and make meaningful connections. http://www.conferencecatalyst.com 

Speaking Is The New Blogging?

(This post originally appeared as a guest post on Simon Salt's Inc Slinger Blog on January 25, 2012)

Speaking Is About More Than Speaking

Simon Salt recently made a profound statement on Google+ when he said “Speaking is the new blogging”. It was only a few short years ago that seemingly everyone you met was a self proclaimed “blogger”. But what the classification meant was as varied as the number of people holding claim to the title. Now in 2012 it seems that the label of “speaker” or “conference speaker” has been added to countless LinkedIn profiles, resumes, and bios.
PR professionals work hard to get their clients onto agendas as speakers or panelists at all sorts of industry events, and open calls for presentations for meetings are often bombarded with proposals (some that fit the needs of the conference organizers, others that are just fishing expeditions). But is calling yourself a speaker and submitting proposals enough?
Speaking in public is a great way to promote your business, your cause or yourself. But just because someone is smart or has done something cool, it does not mean they belong on the stage. Presenting a blah presentation (or worse… being awful )can bring no results or even harm a reputation.

Presenting Can’t Be Faked

Presenting is a skill. Like playing golf, it is evident to all who watch if someone has experience. You cannot fake it or wing it if you wish to make a meaningful connection with the audience. A bad presentation can suck the energy out of the whole conference, which is why it is important that people who call themselves speakers and pursue the opportunity to present are dedicated to bettering their skills and serving the audience.
There is often an argument about content vs. style when selecting speakers. However, there is no reason this should be debated. I am not advocating for “fluffy” speakers who are good performers but have nothing to add to the audience. I am stating that it is not too much to want both style and content.

I am passionate about presentation skills. Every time I watch anyone give a talk I call it “Speaker’s College”. The person on stage, be it at a conference, in classroom, in church, etc…, is the professor and I am the student. It is exciting to see a person educate, inspire and connect with an audience. It is also painful to see someone bomb on the platform. In every case it is the mix of their information and their abilities to communicate that make them memorable or forgettable. Relying only on the data can be very stale, and thus it is important to work on your public speaking skills.

I have watched thousands of speakers, from the famous industry professionals to regular people in a variety of settings. I have learned from every one of them. I have also delivered over 300 “professional level” speeches over the last decade. To be a “speaker” is more than a line on your bio. I believe a “speaker” must be excited by the opportunity to present to an audience and be dedicated to serving the greater good of the conference or meeting. The necessary preparation that the audience deserves is more than just showing up to promote your business.
It is an honor to be asked to speak, and those who can cultivate an experience that advances all aspects of the meeting will be asked to speak again, and again, and again.

What do you think?

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Conference Speakers Provide More Than Presentations

(This post originally appeared on the TSNN (Trade Show Network News) Blog on January 22, 2012)

Is A Speaker More Than A Vendor

Conferences, seminars, conventions and trade shows utilize a lot of speakers. In fact, the meetings industry provides speakers with much of the work that supports their careers. This includes paid professional speakers, free industry speakers, educators and topic experts. Some get paid to speak, while others are there to promote their brand, and every one of them has a direct impact on the success of the event.

But are speakers more than just vendors?

The speakers set the tone for the whole conference. Humans are experiential beings, and when we sit with others in the audience and participate in a presentation, we have a bond with all in the room. How the speakers engage the audience before, during and after their talk cultivates the mood of the “mini-society” that is created whenever groups of people come together.

The keynotes, breakouts, workshops and the other educational aspects of the conference are the foundation of the shared experiences and how they impact the audience spills over into hallways, breaks, meals and social events. A speaker who fails to connect with the audience can suck the energy out of the room, while a surprisingly refreshing presentation can energize everything.

A speaker should never be seen a commodity who is just there to fill a slot. Their high level information combined with their speaking experience and style can have a transformational effect. I have seen event organizers who work with their speakers all along the way to make them more than talking heads on the stage, but instead a valuable part of the overall team. Many speakers are excited to provide extended value to their clients by being present for more than just their scheduled slot on the agenda.

A conference begins online months before the opening session. Speakers can get involved by joining the online communities for the event on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. ... and by creating promotional videos or other materials. Attendees enjoy establishing a more personal connection with speakers, and I have participated in pre-event webinars and written articles for blogs and newsletters that have added to a familiarity with the audience once the event begins. These same activities can hold true after the event as well.

I do not view the role of a speaker to be limited to the stage time, but instead believe that a speaker can be an important part of the planning committee. Active speakers attend a huge number of events, and their experience can be a great tool to help planners brainstorm concepts and vet other program ideas.

While celebrity speakers might not fit into this ongoing consultative role, others are ideally suited to assist and provide value all along the way.

Because the speakers can have a direct impact on the success of the event it only makes sense that they are more than a regular vendor. They should not just be talking with the organizers, but also with each other to ensure they are all on the same page and share common goals for the event. Experienced speakers can make adjustments to their program that will tie into what other speakers are saying and allow the audience experiences to build as the event continues.

The speaking business is made up of thousands of individuals, so there is not one answer to how to engage a speaker to be part of your overall team (or if they will be willing). But the more up front and deep conversations you have about the goals of your meeting, the more phenomenal ideas you will discover speakers have up their sleeves. A great speaker is more than a vendor!

What do you think?

Have A Great Day

thom singer

If You Ever Need A Last Minute Back-Up Keynote Speaker (In Texas or Beyond)

Nobody can predict when you might need to quickly find a back-up speaker at the last minute for an event.  Illness, weather, airlines delays and countless other things can go wrong and a speaker is forced to cancel.  

Earlier this year I wrote on this blog about what to do if your speaker cancels at the last minute, and I regularly get hits via Google Search to that article.  Over once a week someone in the world is searching that topic (I come up near the top of the list).

Fortunately it happens very rarely... but it does happen.  I know because I have received the calls to step in at the last minute (with either days or hours notice) several times for meetings and conventions in my hometown of Austin, Texas (and nearby Dallas and San Antonio).

If this ever happens to you (in Austin or beyond), give me a call.  While I spoke 59 times in 2011, if my calendar has an opening I am thrilled be a resource.

My most popular program is called "The Conference Catalyst" and I speak at conferences all over the country.  My message of "choosing people" is well received by over 300 audiences (59 in 2011) covering a variety of industries.   A main reason people attend conferences if for the networking opportunities, but they fail to make meaningful connections once present at the event.  I change that.

The presentation can also be adapted into a keynote or breakout format, and I have other topics that can engage and inspire your audience.

I hope you never need an emergency back-up speaker.... but remember me if the situation arises.

Thom Singer

www.ConferenceCatalyst.com

512-970-0398