Authors become speakers; speakers become authors. There’s an obvious and beneficial connection between the two roles. 
Whether you’ve been a speaker, or you’re new to the speaking world, perhaps you’ve considered approaching a speaker’s bureau to help you gain more visibility and more speaking engagements.
Speakers’ bureaus generally look for clients who are already accomplished speakers. They want to see that you have a track record, as a professional, paid speaker for various groups over a period of time. While you’re building your track record, you should also build up the assets that make you attractive to a speakers’ bureau.
My colleague Andrea Gold heads the nationally recognized Gold Stars Speakers Bureau based in Tucson, AZ. She says that anyone seeking representation by a speakers’ bureau should be prepared with these six assets:
- Commissionable Fee Menu
- High Resolution Headshot(s)
- Video Demo that’s updated and engaging
- Specific Talk Titles (descriptions are optional)
- Clearly Navigated Website with strong calls to action
- Well-Written Current Bio heaped with client benefits
She also suggests three additional assets that will help you stand out as a professional speaker. These important items are testimonials, a speaker one-sheet, and a list of books you’ve written.
If you are a speaker without a book, consider adding one to your arsenal of assets.
For more information on becoming a professional speaker, check out your local chapter of the National Speaker’s Association. You can learn plenty from those who are in the business.