You’re invited to give a talk to attendees of an industry meeting that’s part of your target market.
It’s difficult enough to put together a presentation due to nerves and indecisiveness, and now you’ve been told you’ll have just 10 minutes to make an impact.
This is a challenge I faced in my early professional speaking days. I was asked to participate on a panel at a popular women’s conference to discuss how to start a business. Each panelist was given 10 minutes to talk, followed by audience Q&A.
Some traits of a great speaker were already part of my delivery.
1. Know your presentation so that you’re not reading the script word for word.
2. Distribute a handout that serves to educate attendees and market your business.
3. Keep a few mints and water handy in case your throat decides to become irritated.
Now I was ready to add another trait: Respect everyone’s time by staying on time.
I’ve learned from trade magazines that it’s a difficult task for speakers to condense a speech, but I consulted a blueprint to aid me in creating a memorable presentation and subtly market my business during my time at the podium.
Here’s how it goes:
1. Let them know that you understand their problem.
2. Explain a point that relates to the topic.
3. Share a story that convinces them to call you for assistance.
When the session ended, throngs of attendees rushed the stage to speak with me, and I broadened my consulting business with many aspiring business owners who heard my message.
This is a blueprint that you can develop and deliver from any stage and attract many clients that are ready for your service.
What’s your method for marketing your business from the stage in 10 minutes?
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Awesome Blueprint and great tips. I really like your blueprint and will apply it to my business thanks Shirley
Hi Suzie,
I’m so glad that this blueprint will help you map out your speaking topics.
It’s worked wonders for me, smoothing out any bumps that occur as I plan a speech, and I know it will do the same for you.
“Walk a mile in my shoes”
Great advice. It’s a sobering thought that you might be able to get as much business (or more!) speaking in the focused way you recommend, as in speaking for an hour or two.
Hi Des,
Quite a few professionals who have a chance to speak to individuals during a morning meeting only get 10-15 minutes during the meeting to talk.
The rest of the time is devoted to the particular profession, such as in the real estate sector or anything to do with sales.
Speaking to these groups are a great way to connect, promote, and create a great message in this short amount of time. You have no choice but to get to the point!
Cutting to the chase, this is really a good idea. you need to get the attention of the listeners, or, you make it short that it sticks to them quickly and easily. great read