by Donna Toothaker
There are many ways to market your business – email marketing, social media, press releases, attending networking events. But to really “kick it up a notch,” you have to put yourself out there, in person, in front of people.
The very thought of standing behind a podium may be terrifying for some, or just uncomfortable enough for others to have avoided it up until now. This is a hurdle worth jumping. Brushing up your speaking skills and taking advantage of opportunities to present will bring your profile, and your business, to an exciting new realm of possibility.
Here are just a few reasons why you need to put yourself out there:
Building Your Brand…
When you stand up in front of a group – whether it’s at a local chamber of commerce meeting, a networking event or even a teleclass – you stand out as a leader. When you put yourself in front of others have the chance to get a feel for who you are and sense your passion for your work. No website, advertisement or any other marketing can compare to the power of personal contact in building your brand. If you are nervous about speaking in front of large groups, start small – introducing yourself at a local business networking event, or speaking as part of an industry panel may be good ways to start. Hosting a teleclass is also a good way for people to get a real feel for you. Though you aren’t meeting them face-to-face, you’re still presenting to a group – great practices to build the confidence you need to give a speech or presentation at an industry event.
Becoming the “Go To” Person…
The more you present within your industry, the more you will assert yourself as an expert in your field. Look for opportunities to speak on cutting edge techniques, technology, marketing methods – whatever is trending currently. Present on a timely topic at industry events, and look for media opportunities to comment as an expert.
Promoting Your Business…
Make the most of every personal and group interaction by promoting your website, upcoming teleclasses, and new offerings. Choose speaking topics that are related to those offerings, so that your talk becomes an introduction to the wealth of information they can find on your website, by downloading an e-book, or joining a teleclass. You’ll increase your web traffic and your marketing list substantially.
Promoting Your Industry…
As you promote your business through public speaking, you are also bringing greater awareness to the VA industry – a win on two fronts! The more folks who are aware of the benefits of hiring a VA, and just what VAs can do to grow their businesses, the bigger the client pool (and industry) gets. The more visible you make yourself to these potential clients, the more your business grows!
Public speaking may not be on your list of favorite things to do, but becoming a confident speaker, and jumping on opportunities to do so, can put you at the head of the pack. So get out there and say something!
Donna Toothaker is CEO, founder and coach of Step It Up VA Coaching, and the creator of the 6 Steps to 6-Figure VA Success System. These highly sought-after VA coaching programs have been created for established, successful VAs who wish to create the 6-figure business of their dreams. Visithttp://www.stepitupva.com to receive the free report, Top 3 Mistakes to Avoid in Creating a 6-Figure VA Business.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
You couldn’t be more right Donna. Nothing propelled me faster into the spotlight and into a lead position in the virtual assistant industry than speaking.
It’s also a wonderful way to get the adrenaline pumping, and making great connections is another benefit. I highly recommend it!
There just aren’t enough VAs/virtual support professionals out there on the speaking circuit. It’s an amazing way to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge – and to of course, get new clients.