Month 1: Foundations of Professional Speaking
IN THIS LESSON
Est. Time: 2hrs
How this course will work
Each week you’ll get new lessons, which will include readings, prompts, information, and homework. These homework assignments will typically be a ‘Building Block’ (something that will add to your overall business plan) or a ‘Field Trip’ (where you’ll do your own research outside of this course). It’s important that you follow these lessons in order, as they will build on one another and guide you through creating a bulletproof business.
Right away, I want you to have our contact info. This course is something I developed with my son, Keegan, who is a digital marketer. Below I’ve included both of our contact info in case you have any questions at any point. The two main reasons I included this is for the following:
You don’t understand something in the course material and want clarification or deeper explanation.
You found yourself in a real-life situation and don’t know how to go about it.
The last thing we want is for you to miss an opportunity because we weren’t available! Whether that’s understanding a core concept, or capitalizing on an opportunity that came your way, we’re here to support you any way possible. We check these emails constantly and will respond ASAP to any messages from this course!
Brad Waid
techbradwaid@gmail.com
Keegan Waid
keeganwaid@nonstopcreatives.com
Let’s Start Here.
Step 1
Right now, go into your favorite writing software (Google Drive, Microsoft Word, Notes) and create a new document titled “Brand Guide” (I’ll also refer to this as your ‘workbook’ throughout this course). This will be where you write your final takeaways each week, and at the end of this course you’ll have a complete Business Outline! This will become your manual that you’ll consult with every business decision (even the small ones) you’ll make from here on out.
Step 2
Answer these questions in your new Brand Guide document:
Imagine your perfect workday. This doesn’t have to be realistic right now - dream big! What exactly does that day look like? What time do you get up? What do your mornings look like? Your evenings? Make it as detailed as possible.
Now, connect this to a why. What is your big motivation, your driving force behind this desire? Dig deep. Keep asking yourself ‘why?’ until you can’t anymore - that is your true motivation. Is it providing stability for your family? Is it deep personal fulfillment? Is it freedom? Making an impact? Get as honest as you can with yourself.
Step 3
Read the following section, and answer the corresponding questions afterwards. Feel free to copy & paste the questions into your workbook, whatever works best for you.
Professional Speaking
I know it might seem unnecessary to explain what professional speaking is all about given the fact that you’re taking this course, but it is important to make sure you have a strong foundation so nothing slips through the cracks! You never know what little thing might make all the difference to you. In essence, the professional speaking industry is a unique field where experts from various domains share their knowledge, inspire audiences, and drive change. Whether delivering motivational speeches, corporate trainings, or keynotes at conferences, speakers play a pivotal role in educating and energizing audiences.
With the rise of virtual events and digital platforms, the demand for skilled speakers has grown, offering numerous opportunities for those looking to break into the industry. Success in this field requires not only expertise and passion but also excellent communication skills and the ability to connect with diverse audiences.
For aspiring speakers, continuous learning and networking are crucial. Engaging in professional development programs, attending industry events, and building a strong personal brand can help pave the way to a rewarding career. As the industry evolves, those who adapt and innovate will find endless opportunities to make an impact and inspire others.
Dr. Rebecca Heiss (a speaker in our bureau) giving presenting at the Ignite Women's conference in Myrtle Beach (2022)
Goal Setting
This week is all about getting crystal clear on where you’re at, and where you want to be. Make sure to be 100% honest with these answers - we’re setting the bar for success, so it’s very important to have this be as accurate as possible. Just picture how great it’ll feel to look back at these numbers in 12 months and see how far you’ve come!
Current
How much money do you currently make from speaking? (it’s ok if this is zero)
Annually:
Monthly:
Hourly:
2. What % of your income is from speaking?
3. Have you spoken professionally before?
If yes, answer the following:
How many speaking engagements have you done in the last 12 months?
How many of those were paid?
How many of those did you enjoy?
If no, answer the following:
What made you want to start speaking now?
4. How often do you take time off currently?
Future
Income
1. How much money do you want to make from speaking?
Annually:
Monthly:
Hourly:
2. What % of your income would you like to be from speaking?
3. What other income sources would you like to have? (books, courses, podcasts, etc.)
Professional
4. If you have a day job right now, do you want to keep it? What would that look like? (reduced hours, a different schedule, exactly the same)
If you wrote no for this, the goal is to fully leave this job 12 months from today. Write that date at the top of your notes page.
Remember this date in your mind as you go through this course. Let it be your motivation to continue, your ultimate goal!
5. What is a dream company that you’d like to work with? (could be a business, school system, brand, etc.)
6. How will your work enrich the lives of others?
Home & Leisure
This is about building your dream life. If you already have some of these checked off - great! Stretch yourself to think if there’s any improvements you’d like in any of these categories.
7. How often would you like to take time off? How many weeks per year?
8. What kind of car do you want to drive?
9. What do you want your house to look like?
Personal
10. What does success mean to you? Answer this question however you are called to.