HOW TO GET PICKED UP BY A SPEAKERS BUREAU – A KEYNOTE SPEAKER’S GUIDE

For professional speakers looking to take their careers to new heights, being represented by a respected speakers bureau can be a game-changer. These exclusive agencies connect their talent rosters with lucrative paid speaking opportunities at major corporate events, conferences, trade shows, and more.

However, getting picked up by a top bureau isn’t easy. They carefully curate their speaker listings to maintain a prestigious selection of proven orators and thought leaders. If you have your sights set on bureau representation, here are some strategies to improve your chances of making the cut:

Build an Impressive Speaker Resume
Bureaus want to see a solid track record of successful speaking engagements and audience impact. Highlight any high-profile events, impressive venues, and major brands you’ve spoken for. Quantify your experience with details like number of speeches given annually. Testimonials and video footage of your presentations in action are also persuasive evidence of your talents.

Develop Niche Expertise and Rising Popularity
While motivational and inspirational speakers have their place, bureaus gravitate towards subject matter experts with deep knowledge in niche or trending topics. If you can demonstrate growing demand, media recognition, published content, and buzz around your speaking specialty, it makes you more valuable to their client demands.

Grow Your Marketing Platform
Having an extensive following and distribution channels through a blog, podcast, social media, and other content marketing avenues is extremely attractive to bureaus. It shows you can help drive registrations and fill seats. Leverage your platform to promote speaking videos and other proof of your skills.

Make Influential Connections
Developing connections and relationships with industry influencers, existing bureau speakers, and bureau staff can get you on their radar. Attend events where they’ll be present and nurture those networking opportunities. Having a well-placed reference provide an introduction carries a lot of weight.

Be Prepared to Negotiate
If a sought-after bureau extends an offer, be ready to negotiate fair commission rates, expense coverage, speaker fees, exclusivity terms, and any other provisions. Have a clear understanding of typical industry standards and what you’re willing to accept in a deal.

Getting picked up by a speakers bureau isn’t a necessity for all professional speakers – but it can unlock new potential. Bureaus wield extensive industry connections and resources. With proper positioning and proven success under your belt, you’ll strengthen your chances of getting recruited to these selective rosters and propelling your career forward.