How to Target Your Bio to Attract Your Next Speaking Engagement
How many of you are interested in public speaking, serving as an expert in your industry, presenting to conferences, etc. How many are already doing this as a career or for your employer? How many of you already have a bio they are confident in that has landed them some awesome opportunities?
The traditional biography breaks down your name, place of birth, who you are, what you do, and some of your past and current achievements.
These four tips will ensure you hit the mark and get your next request for speaking!
TIP #1- Draft your bio as if it is your resume in story form. If you are currently having a difficult time drafting your bio or revamping think about it from that aspect.
For example, you're skimming the pages of your favorite self-improvement/ development, and we all highlight that one quote or tip that stands out to us. You know that tweetable quote or statistic that you can’t wait to share on social media. Think about your bio in that way. Drop a gem before the reader gets to the end of the second paragraph.
For those of you that do not have a publicist or you’re looking to land more speaking opportunities, this is an exercise we like to do with our clients which is TIP #2 Determine your ACTIVATION WORDS. Activation words are usually related to a benchmark, feeling or description. It sparks your reader’s attention in a way that immediately initiates action.
For example: Throughout our blog and website content you will find words like: awareness, enhance, navigation, brand recognition, commitment, excellence, desire, resource, marketing, pitches, press, etc.
If you'd like to learn more about Activation Words, just send us an e-mail and we will be more than happy to meet with your company to determine what words ignite your reader and companies you are looking to work with.
TIP #3- Don’t be shy about your partnerships and accolades.If you don’t have a media kit, this is the perfect opportunity to let brands see what you’ve accomplished. No partnership is too big or too small as long as it aligns with your brand and relates to the audience you are trying to reach.
Also, make sure you are sharing your metrics. Companies want to see how you have made what ever it is that you do BETTER. Show your gains.
Tip #4-Add your uniqueness. You’re in the final stretch of writing your story and now it’s time to submit. Nothing makes you stand out more than that special touch you bring to the table that no one else can do like YOU. What makes you different from the other social worker, expert psychologist, life coach, attorney, business executive, etc.
All in all, make sure you have addressed why the company or organization needs you as their speaker, how your platform will impact their audience, and what makes you unique. While this may all sound like a lot, there is a clear and concise way to right your fabulous story straight out the gate and leave the reader remembering why you need to be hired for their event.
Make sure in this process you are not adding fluff, embellishing your wins or overcompensating for the minimal work you’ve done. If you’re new to speaking and don’t have a lot of accomplishments, that is okay. We’ve all had to start some where.
Here's your homework.
1. Read through your bio and really think about your resume and what you’ve achieved.
2. Write out your list of ACTIVATION words.
3. Determine what brand collaborations you want to highlight based on the audience you’re writing for.
4. Add your uniqueness that will make your story shine brighter.
By adding these elements to your bio you are one step closer to landing your next speaking engagement. Any strategies you use that we left out? Share them with us and our readers.
Don't forget, we have something special for you to go along with determining your activation words. Want in? Click here and we will get it to you!