So, in today's episode, I'm discussing the power of pitching. This episode is a quick guide on securing speaking engagements through the art of pitching. Whether you are an experienced speaker or just starting out, I aim to provide valuable insights into how pitching can open doors to new opportunities. I wish to explain why pitching is crucial for landing speaking engagements, focusing on paid ones. I aim to debunk the myth that only top speakers get selected. Having observed hundreds of students who have gone through my 'Paid to Speak' course, I've noted that it's not always the best speakers who get selected for these gigs. I also wish to share some of my strategies for consistent pitching. Let's delve in.
1. The Importance of Pitching
It's worth starting by considering, as an example, one of my 'Paid to Speak' clients who recently secured a speaking gig despite not being an experienced speaker, lacking confidence, testimonials, and social proof. She simply pitched herself to an executive assistant who was tasked with finding a speaker, demonstrating that opportunities come not just to those who wait but to those who reach out. Event organisers, often overwhelmed, appreciate initiative. Pitching isn't merely about selling yourself; it's about presenting a solution to their needs. Consider what you can offer to the audience and how you can provide value, whether to their staff or conference delegates.
2. Debunking Myths
It's essential to dispel the notion that only the best speakers are chosen for gigs. Effective pitching can often outweigh perfect speaking skills in the eyes of event organisers. Nowadays, tools like ChatGPT can assist in writing tailored pitches, emphasising the importance of being unique, relevant, and enthusiastic. Showcasing your unique perspective and passion in your pitch is key to standing out.
3. Consistency in Pitching
Consistency is crucial. Similar to fishing, the more lines you have in the water, the more likely you are to catch a fish. It's beneficial to pitch to as many potential clients as possible and to schedule regular times in your calendar for this activity. For example, a 'Paid to Speak' student of mine began pitching every fortnight to conference organisers, corporate clients, and previous clients, resulting in a significant increase in speaking opportunities. Establish a pitching schedule, track your pitches, and always follow up. The power of following up can't be overstated; a gentle reminder can bring your email to the top of the inbox without being pushy.
4. Capitalising on Urgent Needs
Sometimes, event organisers are in urgent need of speakers due to last-minute cancellations or gaps in their lineup. Being in the right place at the right time can be advantageous. Ensure your online presence is up-to-date, including 'speaker' in your bio on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. This makes you easily discoverable for those last-minute opportunities. Be ready to pitch at a moment's notice with a prepared elevator pitch and speaker kit.
5. Crafting Your Pitch: Tips and Strategies
Crafting an effective pitch involves focusing on clarity, conciseness, and relevance to the event's theme and audience. Personalisation is also crucial; show that you've done your research and understand the event's goals. Discuss the importance of a compelling subject line in email pitches to ensure your message stands out among the many pitches and speaker requests event organisers receive.
In summary, we've discussed the importance of pitching, debunked myths about speaker selection, emphasised the necessity of consistency, and highlighted the advantage of being ready for urgent needs. I encourage you to start pitching with confidence, persistence, and strategy as your keys to success. Take action and seize the opportunities ahead. I invite you to share your pitching experiences by sending me a DM on social media at Jamie Abbott. In my PR club, we have a private Facebook group where members share their success stories, fostering a community of support and learning. For more information, check out my free 'Paid Speaking Guide' at JamieAbbott.com/speaker-guide. Thank you for listening, and remember to subscribe for more insightful content on PR, professional development, and public speaking. Enjoy your week.
