Hey Peak Performers!

Welcome to another action-packed edition of the Peak Speak Newsletter! 🎤✨ This week, we’ve got a lineup of must-read articles designed to elevate your speaking career and keep you at the top of your game. Whether you’re looking to command higher fees, integrate your speaking with other content platforms, or perfect your stage presence, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s What’s Inside:

1. Level Up Your Speaking Career: Strategies to Command Higher Fees
Ready to transform from a $500 per event speaker to commanding $2500 or more? Dive into proven strategies that will help you elevate your speaking game and boost your income. From enhancing your expertise to polishing your performance, this article provides actionable steps to achieve financial success in your speaking career.

2. Maximize Your Message: Integrating Speaking with Other Content Platforms
Discover how to expand your reach and amplify your voice by leveraging various content platforms. Learn the secrets of integrating podcasting, blogging, social media, and more to create a cohesive and powerful personal brand that resonates with your audience.

3. Stage Presence Perfection: Techniques for Commanding the Stage
Master the art of stage presence with tips on owning your space, making eye contact, mastering body language, and engaging your audience. These techniques will help you command the stage with confidence and charisma, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

But that’s not all! This week’s edition is packed with insights and practical advice to help you grow as a speaker and connect with your audience more effectively. Don’t miss out on these invaluable tips and techniques!

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Let’s continue to grow together and achieve new heights in our speaking journeys. Enjoy the newsletter, and as always, feel free to reach out with your thoughts and feedback.

Here’s to your speaking success!

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The Great Disconnect: Why Investing in Your Speaking Career is Non-Negotiable

Let's cut to the chase. If you're here, it means you have a burning desire to share your message with the world and get paid handsomely for it. But here's the cold, hard truth: if you're not willing to invest in solving your own "how do I get paid to speak?" dilemma, you're living in a fantasy world.

Sounds harsh? Good. Sometimes we need a reality check to wake us up and set us on the right path.

The Irony of Expertise

Imagine this: You're gearing up for a big speech where you'll provide solutions to your audience's problems. You're the expert, the go-to person, the one with all the answers. Yet, behind the scenes, you can't figure out how to get people to pay you for your expertise. See the irony? You're trying to solve others' problems while ignoring your own. This disconnect is not just ironic; it's detrimental.

The Value of Investing in Yourself

Let's talk about investment. Not the kind that involves stocks and bonds, but the kind that demands you put your money where your mouth is. If you're not willing to invest in yourself, why should anyone else? This principle applies across all industries, but it's especially critical in the world of public speaking.

Think of it this way: if you had a life-saving product but refused to spend money on marketing, how would people know it exists? Similarly, your speaking career is your product. Investing in coaching, courses, or marketing strategies is essential to get your message out there and, ultimately, to get paid.

Walking the Talk

You're asking your audience to trust you, to believe that your solutions will change their lives. To do that convincingly, you must first demonstrate that you believe in the power of investment. By refusing to invest in solving your own business challenges, you're sending a contradictory message: "Do as I say, not as I do."

Bridging the Disconnect

The path to a successful speaking career isn't shrouded in mystery; it’s paved with practical steps and proven strategies. Here’s how you can bridge that glaring disconnect:

1. Seek Professional Guidance: Hire a coach who specializes in turning speakers into well-paid professionals. They have the roadmap you need.

2. Invest in Marketing: A strong online presence and targeted marketing efforts are non-negotiable. If people don't know you exist, they can't pay you.

3. Continuous Learning: The speaking industry evolves, and so should you. Attend workshops, read books, and stay updated on the latest trends.

4. Network Relentlessly: Connections can open doors money can't. Invest time in building relationships with other speakers, event organizers, and potential clients.

5. Develop a Signature Offering: What unique value do you bring? Invest in developing a distinctive speaking style or signature program that sets you apart.

Actionable Recommendations

Let’s make this practical. Here are specific actions you can take right now to start investing in your speaking career:

1. Hire a Speaking Coach: Search for reputable speaking coaches online or ask for recommendations in speaker forums. Commit to a few sessions and apply their advice.

2. Build Your Online Presence: If you don’t have a professional website, get one. Use platforms like WordPress or Squarespace. Ensure your site includes a bio, speaking topics, testimonials, and contact information.

3. Enroll in Workshops: Look for workshops and seminars that focus on public speaking skills, marketing, and business development. Sites like Eventbrite and Meetup often list relevant events.

4. Join Speaker Associations: Organizations like the National Speakers Association offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development programs. Join and be active.

5. Leverage Social Media: Start posting valuable content related to your speaking topics on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Engage with your audience and build a following.

6. Create a Media Kit: Develop a comprehensive media kit that includes your bio, speaking topics, testimonials, high-quality photos, and a sample video. This is essential for pitching to event organizers.

7. Set Specific Goals: Define what success looks like for you. Is it booking a certain number of gigs per month? Earning a specific income from speaking? Write down your goals and review them regularly.

8. Practice, Practice, Practice: Use every opportunity to speak, whether it’s a small local event, a webinar, or even practicing in front of friends. The more you speak, the better you’ll become.

9. Get Feedback: After each speaking engagement, ask for feedback from the organizer and attendees. Use this feedback to improve your future performances.

10. Read and Research: Dedicate time each week to reading books and articles on public speaking, marketing, and personal development. Knowledge is power, and staying informed will keep you ahead of the game.

The Bottom Line

Getting paid to speak isn’t just about having great ideas or being an eloquent speaker. It’s about demonstrating your worth by first investing in your growth and business infrastructure. This investment shows that you believe in your own potential and are committed to honing your craft.

In essence, you can't expect others to pay for your expertise if you're not willing to pay to develop it. This is the key to resolving that significant disconnect and unlocking the doors to a lucrative speaking career.

So, take a hard look at your current strategy. Are you walking the talk? Are you investing in yourself with the same fervor you expect from your audience? If not, it's time for a change.

Here's to your success and the transformative journey ahead!

^{_{Lord Al Jensen is a seasoned speak to sell talent developer with multiple decades of experience working with speakers, coaches, content creators and entrepreneurs captivate their audiences. For insights, further discussion, or questions on mastering the art of speaking to sell, reach out to Al at [email protected]  Let's continue the conversation.}}

Level Up Your Speaking Career: Strategies to Command Higher Fees

Are you ready to transform your speaking career from making just $500 per event to commanding a cool $2500 or more? If so, buckle up because today, we're diving into the strategies that can help you elevate your game and achieve the financial success you deserve. 🌟

1. Enhance Your Expertise

To command higher fees, you need to be seen as a top expert in your field. This means continuously improving your knowledge and staying updated with the latest trends and developments. Consider these steps:

• Specialized Training: Enroll in advanced courses or certification programs related to your niche.

• Publish Authoritative Content: Write books, articles, or white papers to showcase your expertise.

• Engage with Industry Leaders: Network with top professionals and participate in high-profile events.

2. Polish Your Performance

Your performance on stage is your calling card. It’s what sets you apart from the competition and justifies your higher fees. Here’s how to shine:

• Invest in Coaching: Hire a professional speaking coach to refine your delivery and stage presence.

• Practice Relentlessly: Rehearse until your speech flows naturally and confidently.

• Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from peers, mentors, and audiences to continually improve.

3. Create a Signature Offering

Developing a unique signature talk or program can significantly boost your value. Audiences and event organizers love fresh, impactful content that stands out. Focus on:

• Identifying Your Unique Value Proposition: What makes your message unique and compelling?

• Packaging Your Content: Develop a cohesive and branded presentation that leaves a lasting impression.

• Offering Additional Value: Consider creating supplementary materials like workbooks, online courses, or follow-up sessions.

4. Boost Your Marketing Game

High fees require high visibility. You need to market yourself effectively to reach the right clients and demonstrate your worth. Strategies include:

• Professional Branding: Ensure your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials are polished and professional.

• Content Marketing: Share valuable content through blogs, podcasts, and videos to build your authority.

• Engage on Social Media: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to connect with your audience and showcase your expertise.

5. Leverage Testimonials and Case Studies

Nothing speaks louder than the success stories of those you've helped. Collecting and showcasing testimonials and case studies can greatly enhance your credibility. Here’s how:

• Request Feedback: After each speaking engagement, ask for detailed feedback and testimonials.

• Highlight Success Stories: Share case studies that demonstrate the impact of your presentations.

• Use Visuals: Create compelling visuals or video testimonials to share on your website and social media.

6. Raise Your Rates Confidently

Finally, don’t be afraid to raise your rates. Confidence is key when discussing your fees. Remember, you’re offering immense value, and your pricing should reflect that. Here’s how to approach it:

• Market Research: Understand the going rates for speakers in your niche and ensure your fees are competitive.

• Value-Based Pricing: Focus on the value and outcomes you deliver, rather than just the speaking time.

• Negotiate Wisely: Be prepared to negotiate but stand firm on your worth. Sometimes, walking away is the best strategy.

The Bottom Line

Elevating your speaking career to command higher fees is not just about improving your skills; it’s about enhancing your overall brand and demonstrating undeniable value. By investing in your expertise, polishing your performance, creating unique offerings, boosting your marketing efforts, leveraging testimonials, and confidently raising your rates, you can transform your speaking career and achieve the financial success you’ve been aiming for.

Here's to your journey from good to great and beyond!

^{_{Lord Al Jensen is a seasoned speak to sell talent developer with multiple decades of experience working with speakers, coaches, content creators and entrepreneurs captivate their audiences. For insights, further discussion, or questions on mastering the art of speaking to sell, reach out to Al at [email protected]  Let's continue the conversation.}}

Maximize Your Message: Integrating Speaking with Other Content Platforms

Hey Peak Speak Subscribers,

In today’s digital age, being a successful speaker isn’t just about what you say on stage. It’s about creating a holistic presence that spans multiple content platforms, ensuring your message reaches far and wide. 🌐 Today, we’re diving into how you can maximize your message by integrating speaking with other powerful content platforms.

1. Podcasting: Your Voice on Demand

Podcasts are an excellent way to extend your reach and engage with your audience regularly. They allow you to share your insights, stories, and expertise beyond the stage, creating a personal connection with listeners. Here’s how to get started:

• Launch Your Own Podcast: Share your unique perspective, interview industry leaders, and provide valuable content that aligns with your speaking topics.

• Guest Appearances: Reach out to established podcasts in your niche and offer to be a guest. This not only spreads your message but also introduces you to new audiences.

• Repurpose Speech Content: Use segments from your speeches as podcast episodes, giving your audience a taste of your live presentations.

2. Blogging: Written Words with Lasting Impact

Blogging allows you to dive deeper into your topics, providing detailed insights and actionable advice. It’s a platform where you can establish your authority and drive traffic to your speaking engagements. Here’s how to integrate blogging effectively:

• Regular Blog Posts: Write consistent, high-quality posts on your website that reflect your speaking themes and offer value to your readers.

• Guest Blogging: Contribute to popular blogs within your industry to expand your reach and establish credibility.

• SEO Optimization: Use keywords and phrases relevant to your speaking topics to ensure your blog posts rank well in search engines, driving organic traffic to your site.

3. Books: Authoritative and Evergreen

Writing a book cements your status as an authority in your field. It’s a long-lasting piece of content that can continuously attract and educate readers. Here’s how to leverage books alongside your speaking career:

• Publish Your Own Book: Share your expertise in a comprehensive format. Your book can serve as an extended business card, opening doors to speaking opportunities.

• Use Book Content in Speeches: Incorporate key points, stories, and case studies from your book into your presentations to provide deeper insights.

• Promote Your Book During Speeches: Offer your book for sale at events or include it as part of your speaking package.

4. Social Media: Real-Time Engagement

Social media platforms are invaluable for building your brand, engaging with your audience, and promoting your speaking engagements. Here’s how to use social media to maximize your message:

• Regular Updates: Post regularly on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook to keep your audience engaged with your latest insights and news.

• Live Sessions: Host live Q&A sessions, webinars, or mini-presentations to interact with your audience in real-time.

• Visual Content: Share photos, videos, and infographics from your speeches to give followers a glimpse of your events and expertise.

5. YouTube: Visual and Viral

YouTube is a powerful platform for visual content. It allows you to share full-length speeches, highlight reels, and educational videos. Here’s how to make the most of YouTube:

• Upload Speech Videos: Post recordings of your speeches to reach a wider audience who couldn’t attend in person.

• Create Educational Content: Produce videos that teach concepts related to your speaking topics, establishing you as an expert.

• Engage with Viewers: Respond to comments and engage with your audience to build a loyal following.

6. Webinars: Interactive and Informative

Webinars provide an interactive platform where you can share your expertise and engage with your audience in real-time. Here’s how to incorporate webinars:

• Host Regular Webinars: Schedule webinars on topics that interest your audience. Use them to showcase your speaking skills and knowledge.

• Interactive Q&A: Use the Q&A feature to engage with participants, answer their questions, and provide personalized advice.

• Promote Your Speaking Services: At the end of your webinars, highlight your availability for speaking engagements and offer special packages.

The Bottom Line

Integrating your speaking career with other content platforms is not just an option; it’s a necessity in today’s interconnected world. By leveraging podcasts, blogs, books, social media, YouTube, and webinars, you can amplify your message, reach broader audiences, and solidify your status as an authority in your field.

Remember, each platform complements the others, creating a synergistic effect that maximizes your impact. Start integrating these platforms today and watch your speaking career soar to new heights!

Here’s to your expanded reach and growing influence!

^{_{Lord Al Jensen is a seasoned speak to sell talent developer with multiple decades of experience working with speakers, coaches, content creators and entrepreneurs captivate their audiences. For insights, further discussion, or questions on mastering the art of speaking to sell, reach out to Al at [email protected]  Let's continue the conversation.}}

Stage Presence Perfection: Techniques for Commanding the Stage

Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting out, mastering stage presence is crucial to captivating your audience and delivering an unforgettable performance. Today, we’re diving into the techniques that can help you command the stage with confidence and charisma. 🌟

1. Own Your Space

The first step to commanding the stage is to own your space. Here’s how to do it:

• Take Confident Steps: Walk onto the stage with purpose and confidence. Your entrance sets the tone for your entire presentation.

• Use the Entire Stage: Don’t confine yourself to one spot. Move around the stage to engage different sections of the audience and keep the energy dynamic.

• Maintain Good Posture: Stand tall and maintain an open posture. Good posture exudes confidence and helps you project your voice more effectively.

2. Make Eye Contact

Eye contact is a powerful tool for connecting with your audience. It makes your speech feel personal and engaging. Here’s how to make it work:

• Scan the Room: Move your gaze around the room, making brief eye contact with individuals in different sections. This creates a sense of connection with the entire audience.

• Focus on Friendly Faces: Identify a few friendly or receptive faces in the crowd and return to them for reassurance and confidence.

• Avoid Staring: While eye contact is important, avoid staring at any one person for too long, as it can make them uncomfortable.

3. Master Your Body Language

Your body language speaks volumes. Here’s how to use it to your advantage:

• Use Natural Gestures: Allow your hands and arms to move naturally to emphasize points and convey enthusiasm. Avoid repetitive or distracting gestures.

• Facial Expressions Matter: Your facial expressions should match the emotion and tone of your message. Smile, frown, or show concern as appropriate to reinforce your words.

• Be Mindful of Fidgeting: Avoid nervous habits like fidgeting, tapping, or shifting weight excessively. These can distract from your message.

4. Harness the Power of Your Voice

Your voice is one of your most important tools as a speaker. Here’s how to make it work for you:

• Vocal Variety: Vary your pitch, pace, and volume to keep your speech interesting and engaging. Use pauses for emphasis and to allow key points to sink in.

• Clarity and Projection: Speak clearly and project your voice to ensure everyone in the room can hear you. Practice diaphragmatic breathing to support strong vocal projection.

• Express Emotion: Use your voice to convey the emotional nuances of your message. Let your enthusiasm, passion, and sincerity shine through.

5. Engage Your Audience

Engaging your audience keeps them invested in your presentation. Here are some techniques:

• Ask Questions: Pose questions to the audience to encourage participation and keep them mentally engaged.

• Use Stories and Examples: Share relevant stories and examples to illustrate your points and make your message more relatable.

• Interactive Elements: Incorporate interactive elements like polls, quizzes, or brief discussions to foster audience involvement.

6. Prepare and Practice

Preparation and practice are the foundations of a strong stage presence. Here’s how to ensure you’re ready:

• Know Your Material: Be thoroughly familiar with your speech content. This allows you to speak naturally and confidently without relying on notes.

• Rehearse Regularly: Practice your speech multiple times, both alone and in front of others. Rehearsal helps you refine your delivery and identify areas for improvement.

• Simulate the Environment: If possible, practice in an environment similar to the actual venue. This helps you get comfortable with the space and the equipment.

The Bottom Line

Perfecting your stage presence is about more than just speaking well; it’s about creating a powerful connection with your audience through confident movement, engaging eye contact, expressive body language, dynamic vocal variety, and interactive engagement. By owning your space, making eye contact, mastering body language, harnessing the power of your voice, engaging your audience, and preparing thoroughly, you can command the stage like a pro.

Remember, every great speaker started somewhere. With these techniques, you can elevate your stage presence and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Here’s to commanding the stage with confidence and charisma!

^{_{Lord Al Jensen is a seasoned speak to sell talent developer with multiple decades of experience working with speakers, coaches, content creators and entrepreneurs captivate their audiences. For insights, further discussion, or questions on mastering the art of speaking to sell, reach out to Al at [email protected]  Let's continue the conversation.}}

Unlocking Your Podcasting Potential: Tips to Amplify Your Voice and Monetize Your Appearances

Have you ever wondered how some experts seem to be everywhere in the podcasting world, reaching thousands of listeners and making a real impact? Maybe you’ve thought about getting into podcast guesting yourself, but you’re not sure where to start or how to make it profitable. Well, you’re in the right place.

The Power of Podcast Appearances

Podcasting is more than just a trend; it's a powerful platform for sharing your message, building your brand, and connecting with a highly engaged audience. But how do you break into this world and, more importantly, how do you turn those appearances into tangible benefits for your business?

Crafting Compelling Pitches

First things first, getting noticed by podcast hosts requires a pitch that stands out. Think about what makes your story unique and your message compelling. Tailoring your pitch to resonate with the specific audience of each podcast is key to increasing your chances of getting booked.

Preparation is Everything

Once you’ve secured a spot, preparation is crucial. Research the podcast thoroughly, understand its audience, and craft your message to align with their interests. This ensures that your appearance is impactful and leaves a lasting impression.

Engaging Performances

When it’s time to hit record, your delivery matters. Engaging storytelling, effective vocal techniques, and the ability to handle tough questions with grace can make all the difference. Remember, your goal is to captivate the audience and make them want to learn more about you.

Promoting Your Appearances

After the podcast is live, promoting your appearance is essential to maximize its reach. Leveraging social media, creating shareable content, and encouraging your network to tune in can significantly boost your visibility and engagement.

Monetization Strategies

Now, let’s talk about monetization. There are multiple ways to turn your podcast appearances into revenue streams. From promoting your own products and services to affiliate marketing and sponsored mentions, the possibilities are vast. Each appearance is an opportunity to drive traffic, generate leads, and increase sales.

Building Strong Relationships

Podcast guesting is also about building relationships. Providing value to podcast hosts and fostering these connections can lead to recurring invitations and even potential sponsorships. It’s about creating a win-win scenario where both you and the host benefit.

Continuous Growth

Finally, embracing a mindset of continuous growth is vital. Seeking feedback, analyzing your performance, and setting goals for improvement ensures that each appearance is better than the last. This dedication to growth will set you apart and keep you in high demand.

The Bottom Line

Podcast guesting offers incredible opportunities for visibility, credibility, and monetization. By focusing on compelling pitches, thorough preparation, engaging performances, effective promotion, strategic monetization, strong relationships, and continuous growth, you can unlock the full potential of your podcast appearances.

Stay tuned for more tips and insights on making the most of your speaking opportunities. And if you’re ready to dive deeper, there’s an exciting resource available that can guide you step-by-step through this process, ensuring you stand out and succeed in the podcasting world.

Here’s to amplifying your voice and achieving your podcasting potential!

^{_{Lord Al Jensen is a seasoned speak to sell talent developer with multiple decades of experience working with speakers, coaches, content creators and entrepreneurs captivate their audiences. For insights, further discussion, or questions on mastering the art of speaking to sell, reach out to Al at [email protected]  Let's continue the conversation.}}

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I haven’t told anyone about this. Not even Corrine, my Executive Assistant (and she knows EVERYTHING!). I’m trying out a new segment in this newsletter - “Peak Speak Perks”.

This week, Peak Speak Perks offers a Sneak Peak at a program that I developed for my tribe last week: Buyer Triggers Playbook.

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Call for Contributing Authors: Join the Peak Speak Community

Are you a seasoned speaker, an innovative coach, or a creative content creator with insights to share? We are on the lookout for passionate professionals like you to contribute to the Peak Speak Newsletter—a premier resource for the speaking and coaching community.

Why Contribute? By becoming a contributing author, you’ll have the opportunity to share your expertise with a vibrant and engaged audience that’s eager to learn and grow. It’s a chance to make a significant impact, enhance your professional visibility, and connect with other thought leaders in the industry.

What We're Looking For: We need content that inspires, educates, and motivates our readers. Your articles should provide actionable advice and fresh perspectives that help our audience of speakers, coaches, and content creators excel in their respective fields. Whether it's innovative speaking techniques, coaching tips, or creative strategies for content creation, we want to hear what you have to offer.

How to Get Involved: If you have an idea for an article or a series that can enlighten and empower our community, let’s talk! To ensure a fit that benefits both our readers and your goals, please schedule a time to discuss your ideas with me, Lord Al Jensen - THE Speak to Sell Talent Developer.

Book your slot now at Schedule a Call with Lord Al Jensen and let’s explore how you can contribute to the next editions of Peak Speak.

We're excited to possibly feature your work and share it with a broad audience of professionals who are continually seeking to improve and innovate. Join us in our mission to empower the next generation of speakers, coaches, and creators.

Looking forward to your unique insights and stories!

Wrap up

Alright, Peak Performers, you’ve got the tools—now it’s time to put them into action! 💪 Dive into the tips and strategies from this week’s articles and start implementing them in your next speaking engagements. Remember, every step you take towards mastering your voice, managing anxiety, delivering stunning impromptu speeches, and avoiding information overload brings you closer to becoming an unforgettable speaker.

Stay tuned for next week’s edition of Peak Speak, coming to you at no cost! We’ve got even more valuable insights and tips to elevate your speaking game. Don’t keep this treasure trove to yourself—invite your friends to join our growing community! They can subscribe to the newsletter at https://speakingsuccess-newsletter-0937e6.beehiiv.com/subscribe.

Until next week, keep speaking with confidence and clarity!