How-To set Up A Speakers Bureau (cont.)	Previous  Index  Next
	Set up an organization meeting to formally outline what is expected of speakers and the workings of the Speakers Bureau At the meeting, have each speaker fill out a form that can be referenced when selecting a speaker for an event; days and times the speaker would be available and areas of expertise. Ask each speaker to provide a list of organizations and entities that they think might benefit from hearing a speaker. Use the organizational meeting to review how the speakers bureau will do business. This could include handing out talking points, rules on gifts and honorariums, advertising the speakers’ business, how to provide follow up information, and other information. Finally, make sure that the process for setting up a speaking engagement is outlined and formalized, including confirmation, and follow up (thank you) letters. Make sure the right equipment is available Make sure that if the speakers plan to use slides, that the event will provide a screen and projector, or that they can be provided for the speaker. Likewise, if materials are to be distributed, make sure there are enough and provide them to the speaker prior to the event. What To Do Next Publicize the Speakers Bureau Use the speaker's contacts and those of the organizers to publicize the speakers bureau. Other opportunities for publicity include issuing a press release, advertising in local professional and trade publications, providing flyers at events where potential audiences may be in attendance, and leaving flyers in public places, restaurants and on community bulletin boards. Keep records and lists of attendees If the intent of the speakers bureau is to organize or bring people together around a common issue, keep lists of people who attended meetings where the speaker was present. These lists can be used for future mailings and organizing or for information efforts. Keep abreast of community thinking by sending follow up questionnaires to attendees. "Debrief" the speaker to learn about new ideas, topics, and areas that might be of further interest. Resources Museum Marketing Tips http://museummarketingtips.com/articles/spbureau.html Reconsider http://www.csdp.org/active/SPEAKERS.PDF Shriners http://www.shrinershq.org/shrinersonly/prstuff/speakersbureau.html Speakers Platform Speakers Bureau Http://www.speaking.com/10tips.html