SPEAKERS BUREAU GUIDE: VIRTUAL PRESENTATIONS AND MORE

Speakers bureaus have invested heavily in virtual presentations, livestreaming, and online webinars in response to changes brought about to the meetings and events industry as a result of COVID-19 and coronavirus-related challenges. But there are many more strategic opportunities to position a speakers bureau or lecture agency to succeed and stay one step ahead of these paradigm shifts that most have yet to explore – many of which can help draw in new audiences and opportunities, and promise to extend the industry’s reach far beyond professional guest speakers, motivational speakers, and inspirational gurus. In part one of our guide to future-proofing a speakers bureau, we offer 10 suggestions on how to grow these businesses, and increase their resiliency.

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Over the past 25 years, we’ve worked with dozens of speakers bureaus, hundreds of Fortune 500 brands, and thousands of executive leaders to design winning business strategies and innovative marketing campaigns. So while COVID-19 may have disrupted the meetings and events industry, and temporarily upended the field of professional speaking, it doesn’t have to be a show-stopper for your organization. As we’ve explained across numerous keynote speeches and books like Think Like a Futurist, there are many ways to monetize the business of speaking and thought leadership – and many ways to differentiate yourself and stay ahead of the curve. Following, you’ll find 10 creative ways that you can partner with subject matter experts to keep business coming in the door beyond (yawn) the typical virtual presentations and keynotes. Trade secret: The more creative and unique your offerings, the better-positioned to weather the transition to online, digital, and hybrid solutions that you’ll be.

WAYS TO PARTNER WITH PROFESSIONAL SPEAKERS, MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS, AND TRENDS EXPERTS IN EVERY INDUSTRY

Consulting Calls – Advisory sessions between subject matter experts and corporate or investment leaders.

Market Research and Trend Reports – Surveys, polls, focus groups, and business intelligence on industries and market segments of note.

Strategy Planning – Scenario planning and ideation sessions with executive teams.

Think Tanks – Curated panels and group discussions featuring leading minds in any given field.

Content Marketing – Branded articles, blog posts, eBooks, whitepapers, and other creative works by famed industry experts.

Custom Publishing – Sponsored publications, websites, and audio or video programs starring top experts.

Video Hosting – Hosting, emceeing, and moderation of video programming, e.g. internal communications videos or public service announcements (PSAs).

Video or Radio Hosting – Sponsored TV or radio news packages featuring leading brands.

Corporate Training and Development – Sale of training programs and instructional courses.

Curated Events – Custom-themed events, meetings, and summits designed and produced in partnership with sponsors.