You talking to me?
Written on
July 21, 2011 by
Michele
If you are reading this blog, I am assuming you want to generate more revenue for your biz. Here are a couple of tips:
Public Speaking not a One-Woman Bar-Stool Action. What I am referring to here is public speaking, not to be confused with standing on a bar stool giving a toast at a bachelor party or karaoke bar. If you are comfortable with speaking on your area of expertise in front of a group, you should do it. Speaking in public forums make YOU the expert, and in turn, promotes your company or your product. (And, a great way to sell books I might add.) P.S. Did you know that most keynote speakers make 10K-20K per event? There is some food for thought – oh, and can you say vacation money? The Internet is your best friend here if you phone is not ringing off the hook with speaking opportunities. Do some research and look for calls for proposals and if you do not have the time hire someone who is pretty much aware of the major conferences in your field and have them submit for you. Warning: if you tend to sweat, shake, stutter or pretty much lose control of your bowels, we recommend you stick to tactic below.
Booth Space not Puppet Show. If you are more comfortable with the one-on-one action, sign up for a trade show booth. You will meet visitors who are interested in your product and service. However, you need to work it baby. Do not sit on your tail the whole conference chatting with your coworker or just sit there looking bored and disinterested as people walk by. 1. You are not approachable and 2. Do you really want to lose your job? Stand up, greet people and smile. Did you know that whenever you smile at someone their knee-jerk reaction is to smile back? I am not saying look like the Joker all day (scary), but be friendly and visitors will stop by.
Minimum Attendance. At a minimum attend. This is also the most cost-effective way to get a feel for what a conference is all about and if you should get a booth in the future. Go online and check out the program ahead of time to plan your strategy so you get the most out of the event. If you can, try to see if you can download an attendance list so you can set up meetings prior. Most people I know like being taken out for lunch/dinner. Many conferences have specific networking events as well. Do not miss these. Most importantly, do not utilize this time downing chocolate martinis … unfortunately, this has been witnessed.
