Public speaking for authors, a brief overview with Cheryl Callighan of The Author's Assistants

Giving talks about your book at associations, clubs, schools, and luncheons is a great way to connect with readers, develop sales, and establish your credibility as an expert in your field. Industry veteran Cheryl Callighan goes over the basics.

Topics include:

• Why are speaking engagements good for authors?
  
  (1) They establish your credibility and act as a calling card.
  
  (2) They help spread your mission.
  
  (3) They can generate additional income.


• Finding speaking gigs and associations using Google and other online resources.


• When to start setting things up: 6 months to 1 year in advance!


• The speaker’s contract.


• Content: usually based on the book.


• The importance of reviews and testimonials to build your reputation as a speaker.


• Join Toastmasters to polish your speaking skills.


• Managing back of the room sales: don’t forget sales tax! Hint: get an assistant!


• Stay focused and know your audience

Links

The Author’s Assistants

https://www.theauthorsassistants.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pg/TheAuthorsAssistants

Find a Toastmasters Club near you!

https://www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club

Participants

Cheryl Callighan is a Master Virtual Assistant and Professional Author's Assistant with over 35 years of executive administration/project management.

Peter Goodman (host) is publisher of Stone Bridge Press in Berkeley, California. He began his publishing career in Tokyo, Japan, in 1976. A longtime member of IBPA, he has served on the IBPA board and as IBPA board chair.