Question for Offliners who speak and/or hold seminars

How short is short? If it can be done in about 45 minutes or so, you might try getting yourself invite as a guest presenter at local groups. I've given talks to a number of such groups including Kiwanis, amateur radio clubs, networking groups, etc.

Use your network of friends and acquaintances to find out who locally might be interested in your presentation. Quite a number of organizations looks for meeting speakers ... and sometimes you even get paid . And you can always hand out business cards to people who are interested in what you offer.

Marvin

Some random tips:

Look for local business and networking groups. Find out what organizations your potential clients belong to. Watch the newspaper for meeting notices, or call your local Chamber. If a group uses speakers, they will love to hear from you.

Always make your speech informative, not promotional. Give out a short handout with some of your most important points and include your contact information. You might even include a special offer, such as a discount or a free consultation.

Also approach your local library. They often have meeting rooms you can use. In my experience, you can not charge and must let anyone attend, but the room is usually free. Sometimes the library will sponsor your event and put it in their calendar.

Contact local organizations that sponsor classes. They may include universities and community colleges as well as continuing education programs. Here in Houston we have an organization called Leisure Learning Unlimited. There are others like them around the country.

I have been paid by Chambers of Commerce, professional associations, colleges and many other sponsors to present workshops and seminars. You need solid content and a polished delivery. If you don't have a good program developed yet, or your speaking skills are not as good as they could be, focus on speaking for free as often as you can.

I have made a lot of money over the years by speaking for free. A couple of ideas there:

Record your talks and, when you have a good one, burn it to CD and sell the CDs. Or video your talk and make DVDs.

Create a short booklet (e.g., 24 pages) with tips and other useful information. Or a workbook.

If you don't have products, sell someone else's. Find out what you can buy wholesale and sell those. My massage therapist friend sold oils, massage tools and other items to her audiences.

Collect contact information from the audience. One way to do this is with a prize drawing. Ask for business cards or have a card they fill out. Having them fill out a card is better because you can ask if they want to receive your email tips. Also you can ask if they belong to other groups where you might speak. You will get lots of leads this way.

Good luck!