Brian Horn speaking at the D7 Event in Atlanta, GA
1.) DEFINE YOUR MICRO SPECIALIZATION”
Micro Specialization is about becoming an expert on a very specialized topic within your niche, instead of trying to be the answer to everyone’s problem.
We covered how to find your micro specialization in a post, and discussed micro specialization and the authority mindset in a podcast episode.
You see, the more specialized you get, the less competition you have…which means you are the ONE AND ONLY option to speak on your topic.
Promoters are always looking for something new and exciting. You can be that something when you carve out your own niche.
2.) PROOF OF AUTHORITY
Consistently delivered blog, podcast or video blog. This is the most effective way to prove you know your stuff.
Its a lot of work, but there in no better way..period.
Keep posts focused on your “micro specialization” to show that you own that topic.
3.) WRITE A BOOK
Around 50% of event producers say they won't even approach someone to speak at an event unless they've written a book (self-published or published through a traditional publisher like McGraw-Hill or Wiley)
Co-Authored and Kindle books are perfectly acceptable too[
4.) VIDEO EXAMPLE
Most planners will not hire you if they haven’t see you speak. Kind of a “Catch-22” but you can over come it.
Get a local or smaller industry event where there is no pressure, and hire a videographer to record you.
The get it edited and produced into 2 pieces
- Full Speech
- 2-minute highlight reel
This will give anyone that wants to see you speak, can do so easily on your site anytime they want.
5.) ATTEND INDUSTRY EVENTS
The saying that “the real deals are made at the bar” is absolutely true. You need to not just go to events that your ideal clients attend, but spend a majority of your time networking with them.
Research the event and potential clients ahead of time. Know who will be in attendance. Have a hit list of people you want to connect with.
One trick to get attention from big players that may be outside of your typical range is to offer your services/products to a non profit or charity for free to them if possible.
I'm very active in DS charities, and I'd almost 100% of the time say “YES” to someone that wanted to prove their value to me by doing a little free work for a DS organization.
6.) GET ON YOUR PROSPECTS RADAR SCREEN
Start a podcast or blog where you interview the people you want to connect with. This is an easy way to get a “YES” to a conversation with you. Read these 2 questions and think about which one you would say “yes” to more times:
1. Can we talk for a little bit about your business and seeing if there is a possibility of me doing some work for you?
2. Can I interview you for my podcast about successful business owners?
Easy choice, right?
You should also know where your prospect is…and be there. Social Media, industry groups, masterminds, etc.
7.) BE SEEN ON STAGE ANYWHERE THERE IS POTENTIAL
This is basic…just get on as many stages as possible.
Small local events, guest in office presentations, break out groups at industry events, etc. Everywhere.
Often there are people in these audiences who could hire you for theirs.
