Professional speakers must have a strategy for every opportunity that may come their way.

For example, if you make a living by speaking to to audiences, you might not take many non-paying clients. However, veteran speakers know that a free speaking gig shouldn’t be completely free. Every party needs to have some skin in the game.

NOTE: Clients treat speakers differently when they are paying them.

If you take on a speaking opportunity, make sure that you have a strategy to make the most out of it. Some reasons for taking on a free gig include:

• Audience is made up of your ideal buyer
• Organization is big and can help scale your business
• Client will provide video of you speaking
• Your message is perfect for the client
• News media attends event every year
• Hi-Res photos will be shared with speaker
• You’ll receive a video testimonial from client
• You can also speak at a nearby location
• You can practice delivering a new speech

There are numerous other reasons as to how non-paying speaking opportunities can be a win-win. In fact, just recently I provided my speaking services to a school that had four seniors that created an anti-bullying video. I saw the video and contacted the Principal right away and we scheduled a school assembly.

Not only that, but we got the attention of the local news reporter and they ran a story.

KRISTV.com | Continuous News Coverage | Corpus Christi

The Principal was excited about the event as they were looking for something to do and then this landed on their lap. It was a true win-win situation. The Principal even referred me to an area high school.

What are you currently missing in your marketing material? Video footage, photos, testimonials, letters of recommendation.

Maybe it’s time that you get on the phone and start looking for speaking opportunities in your area, especially if you’re just starting out in your speaking career.