5 Things Speakers Bureaus Don't Like

Dr. Gary Arnold's Book
How the Top 1% of Speakers and Coaches Do Internet Marketing
Paperback: ISBN:978-1-57867-041-3; eBook: ISBN:978-1-57867-043-7

No doubt you have heard a lot about speakers bureaus and their importance in building a career in public speaking. You may have articles that tell you how to get in good standing with them. All of the articles have likely told you what these big guys, in the world of public speaking, like. However, they probably did not tell you what they don’t like. Not to worry, this article is going to take you into the minds and psyches of speakers bureaus, and let you in on the secrets about what they don't like.

Before you go, stop reading, close your eyes and try to imagine yourself at work. What do you dislike about dealing with the people who want to work for or with you? Hmm, got a long list I bet. Now, open your eyes, get back here and read on.

Speakers bureaus are not just organizations; they are made up of people just like you and me. So, the secret to knowing about what they don't like lies in understanding how people think.

#1 Speakers bureaus don't like over exaggeration:

If you thought that the best way to impress a speakers bureau with your talents is to use superlatives to describe your skills and achievements, then you are hugely mistaken. No one likes to hear a lot of hype or bragging so do not include that in your application.

#2 Speakers bureaus don't like long-winded applications:

Keep it short and concise. The individuals, who screen applications are busy, so respect their time, and send in only a brief overview of your work. To do this effectively, you will need to spend time determining the best way to briefly highlight the most important aspects of your work.

#3 Speakers bureaus don't like introductory emails:

If you are thinking of testing the waters first by sending an introductory email and then following up with your actual resume and other details later, don't bother applying at all. As I said earlier, they do not have no time to waste so pack everything into a single, short communication.

#4 Speakers bureaus don't like being pestered with follow-up communications:

If you don't hear from the speakers bureau, do not send in follow-up emails asking if they received your first email. This is one sure way to end up on their spam list. It may take a while to hear back from them. Be patient.

#5 Speakers bureaus don't like overly friendly behavior:

Do not try to establish yourself as a dear friend of the person you are dealing with at the speakers bureau. They will see that you are simply trying to get the contract. You are liable to come across as creepy and desperate. Keep your relationship professional by conducting yourself as professionally as you would with any other business associate.