When I first organised my first virtual summit, I had one dream speaker that I knew I needed to be at my event. She’s a powerhouse and a philanthropist. She’s also the co-founder of "My Food Bag" in New Zealand with a turnover exceeding NZD$100 million.
She’s such a boss lady that both Forbes and Fortune list her as Top 50 most powerful women in international business. *heart eyes emoji*
So what does a brilliant lady like her would ever talk to me for?
When I created my “Ladies, Let’s Talk Money Virtual Summit”, I had 100+ Instagram followers, a jobless LinkedIn update and a one digit email list and I knew that I didn’t need anything else except to send that speaker’s invite!
There are so many myths and false limiting beliefs that I see when it comes to securing top level speakers.
That you need a million followers on Instagram, a long track record, and a more 'credible' bio.
One of my clients even thought that he needed to be interviewed on different podcasts, finish an entire event website AND create the perfect speaker proposal before sending the speaker invitation.
I want you to know that there is an easier way.
And the reason you think you need all these is because you are operating on the idea that you are helping your speakers.
News flash - you are not.
You don't need to help them get more money, or get more famous or other cool perks that speakers get. The truth is, when they are at that level, they are doing just fine.
So here's my top tips to help you secure your dream speakers with just one email.
1. Filter your speakers properly
The work of finding the perfect speakers starts at the research phase. If you have a platform ready, all you have to do is look for speakers that are aligned with your impact and mission -whether it's fitness, women empowerment or spiritual wellness. Since I’m doing a pop-up event, I had created my virtual summit centred around Theresa and my core values which was women empowerment. So when I finally did send the speaker invitation to her, it was an easy yes!
Take your time to check out your speaker's website or social media, and find out what they are really passionate about. They leave clues all over the place. This will make it easier for you to collaborate with allies who wants to create change the same way you do.
2. Build the Know, Like and Trust Factor differently
Too often people fall into the trap of wanting to show their best professional self. It’s a great idea except that you are putting yourself in the same category of other ‘business” people who are looking to invite your dream speakers for their platform.
And the competition is fruitless, especially because you are directly competing with people who may have a bigger social media following, a big budget to pay, a bigger profile and track record or a larger audience.
So instead of putting your best “business” foot forward, turn on your charm and put the best YOU forward. Introduce yourself as a person first, and share your unique story. This way you are connecting with your speakers authentically even if you’re a brand new in the digital space.
When I invited speakers who were on Wall Street Journal, Forbes & BBC for Ladies Let's Talk Money, I shared about my own experience in managing money and how I got a job in New Zealand. Nothing about my business or the fact that I'm an events coach because it doesn't matter. The funny truth is who you are is not a factor when they are considering if they should be on your platform.
3. Propose The Topic
Getting speakers to say HELL YES quickly is about giving them ALL of the information that they need to make a decision. The moment they read your email, they know exactly what it is and what you want from them. And that includes the topic that they’ll be speaking on.
You’ll be surprised at how ready they are to say Yes when the topic that you are proposing is very easy for them to cover, especially when they have past materials and resources to present to your audience. So instead of having a long discussion over Zoom or back and forth emails (which your speakers already don't have the time for!), propose a topic and keep it open for their feedback.
You always get to have it easy.
And then all you have to do is try not to get too nervous when you're interviewing them. That, I can't help you with (:
Cheerios,
Rashidah
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