Episode #571

How to Create Exceptional Client and Audience Experiences

With Neen James

“My job is to make [event planners] look like a rock star when I get off stage…I stand beside them so I can also have them hear the lovely things people are saying in line when people want to hug you and take their photo with you. And so what they need to see is [that I] was a good investment.”

In this episode, Grant Baldwin connects with Neen James for an honest, energetic conversation on what it truly means to make an impact as a public speaker. Neen’s journey shines a spotlight on the power of intentional focus, where knowing exactly who you serve, and why, can transform not only your business but your ability to connect from the stage.

As Neen shares, growing your speaking business is less about flashy tactics and more about consistent, meaningful action. She and Grant unravel the myth that you need a massive following or viral content to succeed. Instead, it’s about doubling down on the basics: nurturing authentic relationships within your network, following up with event planners, and always delivering value tailored to your audience’s needs.

The episode also digs into the art of strategic outreach. It’s not ideal to sit back and hope your inbox fills up. Take ownership of your calendar by making outreach a daily habit, revisiting those half-finished conversations, and gently reminding people how you can help. Overall, landing more speaking gigs comes down to intentional action, relationship-building, and refusing to overcomplicate the process. 

You’ll learn:

  • How to stand out in a crowded field
  • Turning clients and audiences into advocates
  • Importance of preparation before stepping on stage
  • The BDA Framework: Before, During, After
  • Discovering and leveraging your intellectual property
  • Building early relationships with event staff
  • Customizing content for specific audiences
  • Acknowledging and celebrating the audience’s culture
  • Outsourcing non-core tasks to increase focus
  • And much, much more!

“Every speaker needs to think about how they can be exceptional? Because there’s plenty of average out there, but it’s exceptional that gets attention.”

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 Neen James

Neen James is a leadership strategist, dynamic keynote speaker, and the author of Folding Time, Attention Pays, and the upcoming Exceptional Experiences. With boundless energy, quick wit, and actionable insights, she serves as a confidante to C-suite leaders to help them elevate experiences and achieve greater focus, communication, and influence. Recently appointed to the board of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, James has been named one of the Top 30 Leadership Speakers by Global Gurus multiple years in a row for her work with some of the world’s most prestigious brands, including Viacom, Comcast, Virtuoso Travel, Four Seasons, and the FBI. She empowers individuals to prioritize what matters most so they can create exceptional experiences that drive results and foster lasting connections. Originally from Australia, James is living her best life in Tampa, Florida.

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