Hey Fam,
There’s nothing like being in a room full of speakers — especially the kind who share generously and challenge you to level up.
I left the National Speakers Association’s Influence this week with a full notebook and an even fuller heart.
Here are 7 takeaways to help you attract the right clients, deliver more impact and build a speaking business that lasts.
1️⃣ Positioning ≠ Trend-Chasing
Don’t just slap “AI” on your talk because it’s the flavor of the year.
Positioning is about clarity — saying the right thing to attract the right audience.
👉 Shoutout to Warren Jones, Keppler Speakers.
2️⃣ Show the Real You — Not Just the Reel You
Bureaus and planners want longer-form video (2–10 minutes) that shows you actually speaking — not just cinematic highlights.
💡 Talk in the first 10 seconds. Give them a reason to keep watching.
👉 Credit to both the amazing Meeting Planner and Speaker Bureau panels.
3️⃣ Sell a Problem They Know They Have
Don’t lead with what you think is interesting — lead with what they’re already losing sleep over.
💡 Bonus tip: Make sure the problem has urgency and perceived value.
👉 From the ever-wise Julie Holmes.
4️⃣ Be a Partner, Not a Performer
Meeting planners aren’t just hiring talent — they’re looking for a partner who’s invested in their audience’s success.
- Customize your language.
- Learn their industry.
- Ask how you can help increase engagement.
- Make it about the audience, not you.
5️⃣ Drive Action, Not Just Emotion
You moved the audience — now what?
Ask yourself: What do I want them to do after hearing me?
Emotion is powerful, but action is the ROI.
👉 Props to Megan Denhardt and the Meeting Planner panel for this one.
6️⃣ “Your Closing Should Light a Fire, Not Close the Door”
Your final moment should make them want to move, act, change.
Don’t fade out — end on impact.
👉 Hat tip to Laurie Guest and her powerhouse guest speakers.
7️⃣ Community Changes Everything
NSA is more than a platform — it’s a circle of people who will push you, guide you and cheer you on.
If you’re not part of this community yet, I can’t recommend it enough. There’s truly no place like it.
What’s Your One Big Takeaway?
If you were at Influence, I’d love to hear what stuck with you.
If you weren’t, which of these resonated most?
If you want a partner in bringing this kind of alignment to your speaking business, I’m in your corner.
Just hit reply or schedule a free discovery call — I’m here when you’re ready.
Celebrating your success,
Tay