“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.”
