Written by: Vickie Sullivan | October 20, 2015
Speaking Selection Stats Show High Hustle Factor, Competitive Environment
Being a market analyst, stats are my BFFs. So the NSA (National Speakers Association) Market Barometer for this summer got my attention quick.
Available for members only, the report puts a positive spin on the big changes on the speaking circuit. Items that explain a lot:
- Speaker value is no longer based on presentation skills. Message matters. So does tangible expertise. This is why speakers with great media (aka fame without fortune) don’t always get paid. This is why a lot of veteran motivational speakers retired early.
Related: why it’s gonna be harder to get your speaking fees
- Buyers are scared to death to choose speakers they don’t know much about. If your name isn’t bandied about in the beginning, it’s game over. This is why newbies are having a hard time breaking into the paid circuits. This is why many speakers focus on marketing their own networks instead of branching out into different niches.
Here’s what the report doesn’t say: it’s still tough out there. A lot of speakers are getting caught in the undertow of buyer expectations. Speakers who are known as great presenters and nothing else will have a hard time. Messages that are too intangible will not get the speaker past initial consideration. If you are in this situation, be prepared to get out of your comfort zone. Don’t play small. Don’t dawdle. Get strategic and clear about your contribution and message. What worked before isn’t working now.
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