Several years ago, professional speakers were, well… paid. And they were paid well. As the economy changed, the speaking world was hit as hard as the housing market, and many things changed. First, many conferences were cancelled, made smaller, and taken in house. Next, speaker’s bureaus started having to actually compete with the speakers they represented, as these speakers had websites of their own. All of the sudden, speaking fees became very, very negotiable in the minds of the market. Speaking fees went down.
I’ve personally had individuals who can ONLY accurately be described as celebrity speakers speak at my events for free. Big names. Household names. Those of us who AREN’T household names? Well, we followed suit. Speaking for free often, and competing fiercely for the opportunity to do so. You know, for the potential.
Now, experts are paying to publish their own books. And giving them away for free. Associations dedicated to the speaking industry are now CHARGING their members for the opportunity to speak. WHAT? Speakers are now PAYING event promoters for the opportunity to speak.
Welcome to the new world of speaking. Your ticket out is below. The cost of admission? An open mind and an email address.
You are not alone, all is not lost, there IS something you can do about it, and it is okay… even reasonable… for you to be a bit frustrated with the current speaking climate.