If you want to grow your business and reach a lot of people quickly, consider developing your skills as a professional speaker. There are dozens of trade organizations in every major city that need speakers for their weekly or monthly meetings. As a featured speaker, you receive instant credibility and establish yourself as an expert in your field. Your event (and you!) will also be promoted to the entire membership of the organization, even if only a fraction of the members attend.

Be sure to think outside the box. Your presentation can be loosely related to your business, as long as it addresses the needs of your audience. For example:

*A financial advisor could present "Managing Small Business Cash Flow."

*A Web designer could present "10 Ways to Make Your Small Business Look Big."

*A life coach could present "Effective Strategies to Build Business Relationships."

In addition to trade associations, consider teaching at your local adult learning centers and community education programs. Even if only ten students register for your class, your business is promoted in their catalog - which is often sent to tens of thousands of people. Other potential venues include retirement centers, community centers, churches and charitable organizations.

Here are the steps to getting on the speaking circuit: Continue reading...