Episode #536

Secrets to Selling Yourself As A Speaker

With Brandon Edmonson

“Speed in this game is so important. It is typically the first speaker to reach back out…you have a really good chance of winning that business if you are the first.”

Navigating the intricate world of professional speaking requires not just talent but also a keen understanding of the business side of things. In this insightful episode, Grant Baldwin welcomes back his good friend Brandon Edmonson, Sales Director for Premier Speakers Bureau, for his fourth appearance on the podcast. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting out, Brandon’s expertise in the industry offers invaluable tips and strategies that can elevate your speaking career.

Brandon dives deep into the nitty-gritty of booking speaking gigs, sharing why it’s critical to ask, “Who did you have last year?” This key question can unlock a wealth of information, from budget constraints to event expectations. Brandon emphasizes the importance of speed in the speaking business, urging speakers to respond quickly to inquiries to set a positive tone for future interactions.

Grant and Brandon also explore the art of balancing sales and relationships. Building rapport with event planners, understanding their needs, and positioning yourself as a solution to their problems are crucial steps in securing bookings. Brandon encourages speakers to add value in every interaction, whether it’s through well-timed follow-ups or personalized video messages. Additionally, Brandon discusses how consistency in your rates fosters trust with clients, touching on the delicate balance of negotiation.

This episode offers a treasure trove of practical advice, from how to handle incoming leads to navigating the complexities of travel costs and geographical pricing variations. Don’t miss out on this episode if you’re looking to take your speaking business to the next level. Brandon’s wisdom could be the key to your next big speaking gig!

You’ll learn:

  • The importance of understanding event history
  • About the sales process for speakers
  • The role of speed in booking
  • Strategies for relationship building & outreach
  • Balancing sales & serving event planners
  • Handling inquiries & initial conversations
  • Key questions for gauging event seriousness
  • Negotiation tactics
  • And much, much more!

“Be honest, be genuine, be human in that process. Just how you would want to be.”

Want to know exactly how to find and book more paid speaking gigs?

Download our 18-page guide to the 6 proven steps you can use to book more paid speaking gigs in 2024!

About Brandon Edmonson

Brandon Edmonson is a dedicated professional deeply involved in supporting speakers and content creators. Recognizing the challenges they face, he empathizes with their desire to focus solely on their craft rather than the business aspects of their careers. His role is to bridge this gap, acting as a vital force in sales and marketing to ensure that speakers can reach their audience effectively. Brandon believes in the power of mentorship and training programs and is committed to guiding speakers through the complexities of the industry, helping them achieve their goals while still concentrating on their passion for speaking and content creation.

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