Dear
,
The Holiday Season is upon us and I had intended to write you a note of good wishes in my letter this month. But I received this letter from Manuel Diotte, a wonderful speaker from Texas, who has asked for our help in supporting his dream to make the holidays better for some very special young people. I hope you will read it, then go to Manny's website, and support his dream.
May you have a wonderful Holiday season!
Judi
Manny's Dream
by Manuel Diotte  As many of you know, I was six when the doctor cut me open. Little did I know, I would have surgery every year, sometimes twice the same year until I was 38 years old. Three and one half years of hospital stays, two years of chemotherapy and radiation and 48 operations later, I am still sharing courage and hope to others. However, now I am asking you to join me.
For years my “Gift of Hope” program has been the philanthropic arm of my business and now with a new site and bigger goals to help those who are broken, hurting, and suffering. I am asking my old and new friends to do two things for me.
First, visit my new website www.happinessisapairofshorts.com and support my vision. My goal is to flood the hospitals with books and gifts for Christmas. I have spent five Christmases in a hospital and the laughter and love that goes on during this time goes a long way. If you have ever been in a pediatric ward during the holidays, you know what I am talking about. You can’t tell those kids are sick, yet, they are, and many seriously.
Second, (this step is critical) please share this site with all your friends. With ezines, newsletters, Facebook, Twitter and social media, you can really help make me make a BIG difference. I know that your efforts will take a little extra time. However, believe me when I say, the difference you make will go a long way. Just read what 16 year old Victoria said on the site. Please let all your friends know about the project.
I am truly blessed to have friends like you who care and support my work. Thank you for reading this and considering how you can help me. You honor my journey with your efforts.
Eternally Grateful,
Manny
PS: My latest update is I will have operation #49 in the near future, probably late 2010. My right hip is now going bone to bone. However, although I get tired and my heart breaks in a million pieces, each piece will continue to praise God. Life is good!
The Business of Speaking
Another year is drawing to a close. Businesses and people around the world are preparing for the holiday season and coasting toward the end of the year. The details of running the business are pushed to the back of everyone’s mind and, for many, won’t resurface until April 14th. That may not be a problem if you have a solid business plan, have kept accurate records and have great communication with your accountant.
If, on the other hand, you are like many speakers and entrepreneurs your attention to the business side of your career has not been a priority. You spend most your time researching, preparing, perfecting, marketing and delivering your product. Your travel receipts are in a shoe box under the desk, which for many who work at home is tucked into a crowded corner of the kitchen, den or guest room. Your product (the books and CDs you have produced for promotion and sale) is stored in a corner of the garage.
The “down time” of the holiday season would be a good time to get everything together for your 2009 taxes and prepare for next year by developing a plan for organizing your information. Some things to consider:
Credit Cards
Keeping a credit card for the sole use of your business helps to keep track of expenses. The credit card statements give an accurate and detailed account of what you spent and where. Travel expenses, such as airline tickets, rental cars, hotels and meals; payments to suppliers and office supply expenses are all where you can locate them – without having to dig through the receipt box.
Date Book
An accurate calendar of your speaking engagements is vital. Even if you keep your appointments and engagements in your blackberry or other electronic devise, a hard copy of your calendar can save a lot of problems. During an IRS audit a speaker was asked about expenses incurred at the airport in Chicago. Because she was able to open her calendar to that date and tell the auditor what company she was speaking for that day, the auditor was less inclined to question other areas of her tax return.
Inventory Control
Back of the room sales can increase a speaker’s income considerably. Up to date and accurate inventory records will help your accountant determine just how much of the money taken in was actually profit. A complete inventory record will include not only the number of items, but how much they cost (including shipping costs and other fees associated with production) but also how much they were sold for, any discounts given and any product given away or used for advertising purposes.
If you didn’t keep records this year, start now while you still remember where you spoke, how you got there and what you sold. If you did, surprise your accountant by having it ready for them January 1st – they may not be ready for it, but they will appreciate having the information. If you did, keep up the good work, you are a top notch professional.
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Social Networking
By Gregory Kompes
 Social networking is a great way to build your readership, fan base, and sell your products and services. You've probably already heard of some of the more popular networks like MySpace and FaceBook.
So, what are social networks? They're online spaces where virtual communities are created. You join (usually for free), create a "space" or profile page, invite your friends to join, and then link to each other. Most sites allow you to create text profiles, and upload photos, images, and sound files.
I'm a fan of the interactive, Web 2.0 generation of WWW tools, like social networking. Social tools add great value to any Writerpreneur/Speakerpreneur's branding and platform building plan and are a great way to explore Web 2.0 tools you've been interested in, but haven't tried yet. Remember, the goal is to sell ourselves, our products, and our services. The best way to do that is to get in front of as many people as possible. All the social networking sites are searchable, so people looking for you, your books, or services you offer are likely to find them. Some of the larger networks boast millions of users; that's a lot of potential buyers.
In the most basic form, social networks are like billboards that allow us to constantly promote our books and services. Yet, many networks have advanced features like calendars, invitation services, blogging, and forums. For example, on John Kremer's BookMarket.ning, a writer's networking community, you can blog and create profile linked forums. Some of the networks also have built in messaging, so you can contact your group of network friends with news and announcements. As we get to know our readers, buyers, and fans we're better able to answer their questions. And, as a recent Live Journal poll pointed out, 99% of book buyers buy books because they know or feel they have a connection to the author.
One of the built in aspects of social networking is the concept of "trusted friends." Everyone you invite or who requests to be one of your network friends must be approved. This built in trust is essential in online marketing. These tools can be combined to create a well-rounded, social-network marketing platform.
There's another advantage to social networking...it can be fun. The writing life can be solitary and social networks are a way to step out of your office without leaving it. I join all the social networking sites that I come across. While I admit I don't spend a lot of time socializing on these sites, they have helped build my fan base and allowed me to connect with some old friends.
Are ready to take advantage of social networking? Once you get started with the social networking sites below send me an invitation, I'll be happy to be your social network friend.
Bestselling author and online self-promotion expert Gregory A. Kompes is the Writerpreneur. Gregory explains how to combine online marketing tools to create a recognizable brand, build and retain audience, increase credibility, and improve your income earning potential. The Writerpreneur makes online promotion topics like Website building, email, eCommerce, teleconferencing, podcasting, blogging, eZines, autoresponders, ePublishing, product lines, cross promotion, and affiliations easy to understand and approachable for technophobes and geeks alike.
Words of Wisdom
Words of Wisdom is a question and answer format where successful speakers share their experience and bits of wisdom. Each issue will feature a different speaker that has answered our 10 questions.
Anne Dreyer shares words of wisdom.
1. Did you choose the speaking profession or did it choose you?
What a blessing the speaking profession choose me - I became the Women’s Page Writer
for our local newspaper, The Umhlanga Globe. From this I was invited to speak.
2. When and how did you 'know' you were a speaker?
When I had my first ‘standing ovation” this was truly so unexpected. I spoke at a ladies luncheon some years ago at the Durban Country Club (South Africa - where I live)
and presented a new topic, “The Seven Secrets of Women”, which has since been my most requested and successful presentation.
3. What are the biggest surprises you've encountered? (as a speaker)
My first ‘standing ovation’ at the ladies luncheon in Durban. And then three weeks ago when I spoke at a large ladies tea in Betal and a lady of 80 came up to afterwards and said- “I wish I had heard your presentation 50 years ago- this has changed my life!”
4. What is your proudest speaker moment?
It was not during a professional speaking engagement. I did the eulogy for my dearest and best friend who fought the bravest fight against cancer……she truly left an indelible
impression on my life- and to have had the privilege to speak at her funeral, and bring a tribute to my friend….was perhaps the proudest moment for me personally.
5. What was your worst speaking experience?
Speaking in Namibia in a small town called Karrasberg – it was for their Farmers Union ladies. The venue was created in a tent, with a desert sand floor- in the middle of the Namibia desert. The heat and dust were unspeakable - and to top it all I wore a suit, nylons, and high heels! (Needless to say - there was no air conditioning or microphone!)
6. What's your favorite self marketing idea?
My Motto: From Coco Chanel
“You can be ravishing at 20, charming at 40 or irresistible for the rest of your life!”
I truly ‘walk the talk. I love what I do!
7. What business challenges have you faced as a speaker?
Negotiation of professional fees!
8. Who was your role model or inspiration?
Firstly my father, who was always the perfect gentleman. The example and legacy he left has given me my own stories to tell of how to treat people and that they will not remember what you have or where you lived or about your education…but they will remember how you made them feel. My dad, Peter, always made everybody feel great and important in his company!
And then-Judi Moreo who came to me after one of my presentations in Johannesburg in South Africa a few years ago and complimented me on my presentation…..It changed the way I felt about my speaking career !
9. What's the best advice you were given about speaking?
Tell your own stories- Then when you tell them- it is not about YOU but about THEM! (your audience)
10. What words of wisdom would you share with a new speaker?
We all have our own stories to tell- be authentic, be real and be true to yourself- a good speaker leaves his or her audience with something special of personal value!
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Deborah Clark shares words of wisdom.
1. Did you choose the speaking profession or did it choose you?
My speaking profession developed from my membership in Toastmasters International. I had not done any public speaking prior to that, although I had often facilitated meetings for small groups. To be honest, I had never even considered public speaking, it just happened. As I completed the various modules for the Communication and, Leadership tracks with Toastmasters I gave more and more speeches. I visited other clubs, I increased my audience, and I expanded my portfolio. I discovered my passion in storytelling. I created a workshop on storytelling that I presented at the District Conference in the fall of 2008. In conclusion, I think that the speaking profession did choose me.
2. When and how did you 'know' you were a speaker?
Toastmasters International has an excellent development track combined with annual competitions. I competed in my first Speech Contest with my tenth speech, (which was the final requirement for the Communication Module). I still remember how excited I was to come in second place. That night was the night I knew I was a speaker. I felt great being in front of the audience. I was comfortable, knowledgeable, and I was having a great time!
3. What are the biggest surprises you've encountered? (as a speaker)
Every audience is different. The first time I did a workshop outside of the Toastmasters arena, it was a real challenge. I was accustomed to the warm supportive environment of other Toastmasters members. My new audience was far more critical, and wanted the information, not so much personality. Sometimes you don’t get an immediate reaction from your audience, and that can be a good thing, a bad thing, or it might not mean anything at all. The most important thing is to know what you are talking about, be consistent, and professional. Always.
4. What is your proudest speaker moment?
I was very proud to be part of a team that presented a speech workshop at a local university this past summer. The program was for 4 weeks, my first multi day presentation. Interacting with the students was very fulfilling.
5. What was your worst speaking experience?
I did a one night workshop for an Adult Night School. I presented what I was interested in without considering the needs of the attendees. The feedback was brutal. I re-worked the agenda based on the feedback, and was much more successful the next time I presented.
6. What's your favorite self marketing idea?
I am still developing my self marketing platform. I am working on my website, and updating my contact list. Right now, I guess you can say it is “Word of Mouth.” My idea is to send my website link out to my contacts, and mail cards with my contact information to anyone that I don’t have an e-mail address for. I am also attending any networking opportunity I hear about.
7. What business challenges have you faced as a speaker?
Marketing. My objective is to concentrate on spreading the word about my business.
8. Who was your role model or inspiration?
I am a big fan of Dr. Martin Luther King, and his wife Coretta Scott King. I have quoted both of them many times in my speeches. Individually they were talented and extremely well educated. I think as a couple they were a dynamic, compassionate pair who loved all people.
9. What's the best advice you were given about speaking?
One of the evaluations from my worst speaking experience actually gave me some very good advice. My introduction was described as “self indulging blather”
In other words, get to the point of the speech. You don’t have to tell people how much you love something, just tell them, and show them your passion in the speech. At the end of the day they will love it as much as you do.
10. What words of wisdom would you share with a new speaker?
It’s not magic. You become a good speaker the same way you get to play at Carnegie Hall. Practice! Practice! Practice!
As a niche professional speaker, Deborah knows how to deliver programs that provide value to audiences. With a background in all aspects of meeting development, staff training, and event organization, she understands how to meet her clients' needs for a successful event. Her client's list includes adult school/continuing education programs, professional associations, non-profit groups, and private clients. In addition, to being a professing speaker, Deborah is an active community volunteer through Jersey Cares.
Website: http://www.freewebs.com/dclark6581
Book Review:
The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Success as a
Professional Speaker
Thomas (Thom) A. Lisk, LHD
 Dr. Thom Lisk has packed 30 years of research and experience into 325 pages of how-to succeed as a professional speaker with specific steps and blueprints. Both beginner and veteran speakers can benefit greatly from the wealth of information provided in these pages.
Divided into five major sections, this book is an excellent resource. From learning what successful speakers have in common to how to use your positive speaking experiences as a springboard for future success, you will find tips, plans and guidance to help further your career.
There are three types of sidebars – important information condensed into clear, concise messages. The “Success Shortcuts” are advice on which corners can be cut on the road to success as a professional speaker. “Words to the Wise” are warnings to help aspiring speakers prevent wasting time and money. And, finally, “def~i~ni~tion” gives explanations of the lingo used by professional speakers.
Filled with crowd pleasing tips for making it BIG as a professional speaker, the guide includes:
- Proven tips on setting up a professional speaking business and promoting yourself, part-time or full-time.
- Invaluable guidelines to help you craft and deliver compelling presentations that gain great results!
- Planning strategies to help you keep things focused and organized.
- Things to keep in mind when you’re speaking on behalf of a corporation.
You can find out how to bring in big-paying clients, set your rates – and collect your money, refine your speaking skills, motivate audiences and make yourself a brand name.
Thomas (Thom) A. Lisk, LHD, is the founder and president of Professional Speakers Bureau International and TerrificSpeakers.com. He has represented hundreds of expert speakers for over 30 years. As an award-winning professional speaker, workshop leader, and expert consultant/mentor, Dr. Lisk has turned hundreds of novice experts into well-paid professional speakers. For more information or to purchase a copy of “Success as a Professional Speaker” go to www.TerrificSpeakers.com.
Industry Events
NSA:
2009 Fall Conference
November 20 - 22, 2009
Phoenix, Arizona
Location: Arizona Grand Resort
Location Phone: (602) 438-9000
2010 Winter Conference
February 12 - 14, 2010
Nashville, Tennessee
Location: Marriott Nashville Airport
Location Phone: (615) 889-9300
2010 NSA Convention
July 17 - 20, 2010
Orlando, Florida
Location: Orlando World Center Marriott
Location Phone: (407) 239-4200
IFFPS:
GERMANY
September 11-12. Mannheim. German Speakers Association (GSA).
http://www.english.gsa-convention.org
http://www.germanspeakers-association.de
UNITED KINGDOM
November 13-15 Professional Speakers Association of the UK & Ireland. http://www.professionalspeakers.org/events
USA
November 19-22. NSA/US Fall Conference. Phoenix, Arizona, Fmi: http://www.mynsa.org/EVENTS/FullCalendar.aspx
CANADA
December 6-8. Calgary. Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS) national convention.
http://www.CanadianSpeakers.org
UAE
Mid-December.
Professional Speakers Association/Middle East. http://www.PSAme.org
Ask Judi
Dear Judi,
How do I market myself as an “expert speaker” in my field?
Karen P,
Reno NV
Dear Karen:
To market yourself as an expert you must first BE an expert, believe in yourself, your topic and your ability to present your topic. As an expert, you should have more experience, have done more research or been involved in your profession at a deep level for a lengthy period of time. It is important to have researched all sides of the topic, not just your particular point of view. People with differing opinions may question your expertise and you must be able to skillfully validate your presentation of the information. Your presentation must be well planned and your material must be kept current – including any new advances or discoveries in your area of expertise. Your credentials will speak for themselves.
Once you are prepared, there are several ways to begin marketing. The media is frequently looking for comments from experts on issues of concern – for example, because of national attention to health care reform, speakers with expertise in almost any facet of health care are often featured in human interest segments on news programs and news magazines. Don’t wait for them to call you – seek them out and let them know what you have to offer. Check your local network affiliate stations, local newspaper editors, send articles to your local or regional magazines. Don’t forget local service organizations. They are always looking for educational, informative programs on current issues – think Rotary, Soroptimist International, Lions. These will be most likely be free speeches, but they will get your name and face in front of an audience and if you are good at back of the room sales, you can turn free speaking engagements into very lucrative ones!
About the Editor
Judi Moreo’s 39 years of speaking experience have established her at the top of her profession. Her programs are simple, practical, easy to remember, and can be put to use immediately. Through her highly entertaining presentations, audience members not only have a great time, they gain new information and skills...which is, after all, the point.
She is the author of “You Are More Than Enough: Every Woman’s Guide to Purpose, Passion, and Power” and its companion, “Achievement Journal” as well as six other self-help books.
Judi is the publisher and one of the 26 authors of an exciting new book “Life Choices – Navigating Difficult Paths” to be launched in January 2010 at the Palace Station Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. The authors from countries around the world will be in attendance.
Life Choices: Navigating Difficult Paths
Message of Hope from 26 Inspirational Authors
Coming January 2010
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