Developing a Speakers Bureau What is a speakers

Developing a Speakers Bureau

What is a speakers bureau? A list of potential speakers who can talk to the public: • Speakers may have personal experiences or be experts • Speakers are available to talk to different groups • Engagements are scheduled by your organization • Can send a single speaker or an entire panel

Why develop a speakers bureau? • • • To raise public awareness To increase your group's visibility To provide role models To recruit new members or volunteers To attract press coverage To raise funds

Who can a speakers bureau reach? • Business groups • Service organizations • Religious groups • Working groups • Training groups • Political groups • Environmental groups • School & university classes • Professional organizations • Diversity training groups • Cultural or minority groups

How do you set up a speakers bureau? 1. Recruit & select speakers: – Use personal invitations – Use people already involved with your organization – Decide whether you will use single speakers or panels

How do you set up a speakers bureau? (cont. ) 2. Make a roster with scheduling information: – Dates of past and upcoming engagements – Number of no-shows or times late – Speakers' area of expertise or experience

How do you set up a speaker’s bureau? (cont. ) 3. Contact groups that might be interested in scheduling a speaking engagement: – Create a list of potential audiences and contact people – Send out letters offering to have a speaker or a panel visit the group – Follow up with phone calls to schedule engagements

How do you set up a speaker’s bureau? (cont. ) 4. Schedule who are available at the needed time: – Be very clear about the date, time, and location – Write down who's scheduled 5. Send a letter confirming the time, date, topic, location, duration of the event , speakers' names, etc.

How do you set up a speaker’s bureau? (cont. ) 6. Again remind speakers about the engagement. 7. Have speakers make their presentation. – Basic info & introductions – Personal stories or an informative presentation – Question-and-answer period 8. At the end of the presentation, collect feedback from the audience.