Olympic Lessons from Olympic Legends
Olympic Glory – Dominique Dawes & Kerri Walsh Jennings With the 2024 Olympics in Paris fast approaching, it’s a great time to inspire your team with stories from these two Olympic Champions: Dominique Dawes and Kerri Walsh Jennings. Groundbreaking athletes, Dominique and Kerri share stories of teamwork, passion, and their champion mindset which translates to the business world. Navigating your path to success requires focus, adaptability, and a resilient spirit. Bring Olympic glory, and a gold medal to your next event!
Changing the Speaking Industry One Apprentice at a Time
Five years ago, Gary Vaynerchuk and I embarked on a mission to disrupt the speaking industry. Our collaboration led to the creation of VaynerSpeakers, where innovation in deal-making, customer service, and marketing sets us apart. Recognizing the stagnant nature of the industry, we envisioned a new path, one that diverged from traditional methods and fostered a culture of change and progress. My college experience and early career immersion taught me the value of hands-on learning over traditional “grunt” work. This insight was the catalyst for VaynerSpeakers’ thoughtful approach to talent development: The Sales Apprentice. Instead of hiring industry veterans set in their ways, we chose to nurture talent from within, aligning them with our innovative culture and methodologies. The Sales Apprentice role at VaynerSpeakers is more than a position; it’s a journey met with opportunity. This program offers a dual benefit – it’s a gateway for those aspiring to excel in sales and a comprehensive learning experience tailored to the speaking industry. Unlike conventional sales roles focused solely on deal closure, our apprenticeship emphasizes a holistic approach to skill-building. Apprentices are mentored by seasoned professionals and immersed in the dynamics of speaker representation, negotiation strategies, and client management. This hands-on approach provides more than basic knowledge; it offers real-world experience in understanding all aspects of booking speakers. From participating in client meetings to engaging in sales activities, apprentices gain invaluable insights and skills. Furthermore, this role is a crucible for personal and professional growth. We encourage our apprentices to embrace challenges and extend beyond their comfort zones. Whether it’s refining communication skills, mastering persuasion, or developing resilience, our program equips individuals with the tools to thrive in a competitive landscape. The unique blend of mentorship and autonomy in our program fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment. Apprentices are entrusted with significant responsibilities, allowing them to navigate their learning journey and contribute meaningfully to the organization. This balance instills confidence as they undertake challenging tasks and projects. At VaynerSpeakers, the Sales Apprentice role is integral to our organizational success. Apprentices bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, challenging the entire team towards excellence. They play a crucial role in building relationships with stakeholders, including speakers, corporate clients, and event organizers. These connections are vital for immediate business success and form a network that apprentices can leverage throughout their careers. I’m proud of our work at VaynerSpeakers, but none more so than the work of our first Apprentice graduate, Lindsey Bauer, who came to us without any industry experience and now navigates our world with confidence and success on a daily basis. I hope she’d agree, but the goal is creating an investment in the future, shaping the industry’s leaders of tomorrow. By focusing on diversity and long-term talent development, we are not just contributing to our business today, but actively shaping its future.
Public Speaking: Pro Tips for Non-Pros
Public speaking can be a daunting task, especially for those who aren’t accustomed to being in the spotlight. For years, it has been among people’s biggest fears. Whether you’re presenting in front of colleagues, clients, family, or an audience of strangers, almost everyone is faced with public speaking at one time or another. I’ve seen countless individuals transform into confident and engaging speakers and while I pride myself on being able to offer insight and support to my clients, I thought I would share some tips for anyone out there trying to improve their own skills, conquer their fears, and deliver an impactful presentation. Be as Prepared as the Stakes Demand: The first rule of thumb for any successful public speech is preparation. The amount of preparation required depends on the stakes involved, but never underestimate the importance of thorough groundwork. Research your topic, understand your audience, and rehearse your speech until you’re confident in your delivery. Confidence comes from preparation, and it will help you stay calm under pressure. If you need to practice, don’t be afraid to do it in front of a friend or loved one. If you can’t do speak in front of a friendly crowd, imagine the alternative. Know How You Are Going To Finish: Begin with the end in mind. Knowing how you want to conclude your speech provides you with a clear direction throughout your presentation. Your closing should leave a lasting impression and drive home the main message you want your audience to take away. Plan your conclusion carefully, so it aligns with your overall message and resonates with your audience. Without summarizing your key points, try to recall the important elements you mentioned along the way. Don’t Try To Be Funny: Humor can be a powerful tool in public speaking, especially to open, but it’s not for everyone. Attempting humor without the necessary comedic timing or understanding of your audience’s sensibilities can backfire. Instead, focus on being genuine and relatable. Authenticity goes a long way in connecting with your audience and making your message memorable. Slides Should Add, Not Be Redundant: Visual aids, like slides, can enhance your presentation when used effectively. However, they should complement your speech, not repeat it verbatim. Use visuals to emphasize key points, provide context, or illustrate complex concepts. Keep your slides clean, concise, and visually appealing to engage your audience without overwhelming them with information. If your audience is reading slides that simply repeat your message, this presentation could have just been an email! You Get Better With Reps: Public speaking is a skill that improves with practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t flawless. Embrace each speaking opportunity as a chance to grow and refine your skills. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors to identify areas for improvement. The more you practice, the more confident and polished you’ll become. Refrain From Using Notes: Relying on notes during your presentation can create a barrier between you and your audience. Memorize key points, and use them as a guide rather than reading from a script. Engage with your audience by maintaining eye contact and speaking naturally. Your connection with the audience is far more important than delivering a perfect, word-for-word speech. When In Doubt, Keep It Short: Attention spans are shorter than ever. Unless your topic absolutely requires a longer presentation, aim to keep it concise and to the point. Focus on delivering valuable content and avoiding unnecessary fluff. A shorter, impactful speech is more likely to hold your audience’s attention and leave a lasting impression. Public speaking is a valuable skill that can open doors to new opportunities and enhance your professional presence. Remember, even experienced speakers were once non-public speakers, and they honed their skills over time. By following these tips – preparing thoroughly, planning your conclusion, staying authentic, using visuals wisely, practicing regularly, minimizing notes, and keeping it concise – you can become a confident and effective communicator. Embrace the challenge, and let your voice be heard with confidence and clarity.
Client Wisdom: Inspiring My New Year’s Resolutions
I’ve never been one to make New Year’s Resolutions. Not for any particular reason, but January 1 can be a somewhat arbitrary start to something new. However, this year, I’m looking to our clients for insights and inspiration for 2024: Embracing My Wonderhell (Laura Gassner Otting) In our fifth year of business, VaynerSpeakers continues to grow at a significant pace, something I’m quite proud of. The team continues to grow, not just in size, but in capability. However as Laura asks, “Why doesn’t success feel better?” As we grow, we have more to contend with and more to worry about. In 2024, I’m embracing the journey and the difficulties I’m lucky enough to have. Laura’s notion of embracing “Wonderhell” is a reminder that the path to success is rarely smooth, and the challenges we face are an integral part of the journey. So, I’m committing to embracing the ups and downs that come our way and finding wonder even in the midst of challenges. Setting Significant Goals (Jesse Itzler) No, I’m not planning to go on any 100 mile runs this year, but I am trying to set goals that are not going to be easily reached. Jesse talks about the goals he set for himself at Marquis Jets and similarly, I’ve decided that rather than modest success, I’m willing to risk failure for significant success, and I believe in our strategies, tactics, and our team to accomplish bigger things than we’ve ever done before. Jesse’s philosophy encourages us to aim high and not be afraid to push our limits. In 2024, we’re setting ambitious goals that will stretch us but also motivate us to achieve remarkable outcomes. Saying No More (Ryan Holiday) Ryan has reminded me that every time we say yes, it means another no we have to say to something else. There is only so much time we have in the day. While I try to be generous with my team, clients and customers, it’s essential to prioritize what truly matters. I’m taking a cue from Ryan and learning to say “no” more judiciously. By focusing on what aligns most closely with our goals and values, we can channel our energy and resources more effectively. I can’t be generous with my time if I have none left! Empower the Front Line (Scott Stratten & Will Guidara) Something two clients have spoken about quite a bit, with slightly different sentiments, is the value of empowering those interacting directly with our customers. As Scott says, “If you want to improve the bottom line, empower the front line.” By empowering my team to make more decisions, suggest more changes, and add more to their plate, I aim to broaden their skills, improve our way of doing business, and let’s be honest, take responsibilities off my plate. The way Will describes these situations is that “The people at the top have all the authority, and none of the information. The people at the front line have all of the information, and none of the authority.” In 2024, I hope to remove that gap of information and authority and expect my team to thrive with newfound experiences. I’m grateful for the wisdom and inspiration I’ve gained from our clients. These New Year’s resolutions, inspired by Laura Gassner Otting, Jesse Itzler, Ryan Holiday, Scott Stratten, and Will Guidara, remind me to embrace the journey, set ambitious goals, prioritize what truly matters, and grow my team individually and as an organization. I’m excited to see how these resolutions will shape the year ahead for VaynerSpeakers and our incredible team. I also hope that by writing this article, anyone who reads this holds me accountable! Here’s to a year of growth, resilience, and meaningful achievements!
Embracing The Future of Live Events With Open Arms and Open Minds
The past few years have been a rollercoaster in the events industry, reshaping our approach to creating memorable and impactful experiences. A mere three years ago, many thought our businesses’ best days were behind us, and many businesses began to pivot to absorb other areas outside the live events space. As we look forward, I’m excited about what is next and more excited because I know at VaynerSpeakers, with just five years under our belt, we’re just getting started! Customize and Care The future of events is bright and brimming with potential. We’re seeing a shift towards more immersive, interactive, and personalized experiences. As competition for attention grows, speakers need to do more to engage, inspire, and educate. Bespoke approaches win out time and time again. Technology, a steadfast ally in this journey, is offering new ways to engage audiences, whether through virtual reality that transports attendees to different worlds or through apps that tailor the event experience to individual preferences. Speakers who are willing to step outside their comfort zone and truly embrace the event audience will continue to win. Hybrid Events: Here to Stay Hybrid events have proven to be more than a pandemic-era necessity. They’re a new norm, offering flexibility and greater reach. In 2024, we anticipate further refinement in hybrid event strategies, ensuring that virtual attendees receive as enriching an experience as those in-person. I often relate virtual events to animated television shows, compared to their studio audience counterparts. The laws of physics no longer apply and opportunities are endless. When people began converting events virtually, they tried to do too much and things got overly complicated. The pendulum swung back and then you saw overly simplistic events. Now we’re landing in the middle where you can have a simple event, but include complex additions to improve user experience. Next year, get ready for the best virtual events you’ve been a part of! Personalization at Its Peak I’m eager to see what happens next with the power of personalization as AI becomes more prevalent and mass adoption continues to grow. Data analytics and AI are enabling us to offer highly customized experiences, making it possible to create a unique experience for every person so they feel valued and engaged rather than among the masses. We’re seeing base-level use cases for AI, but at this rate of change, it’s inevitable that we’ll see significant advancement in the next year. In a world where everyone hopes to achieve a one-size-fits-one experience, AI will provide us the tools to do just that. The question is, are we ready to systemize and adapt accordingly? Conclusion Looking forward to 2024, it’s clear that our industry is on the brink of a transformative period. As event planners and professionals, we have the opportunity to lead this change, crafting experiences that are not only grand in scale but also rich in impact. The future is here, and it’s filled with possibilities. At VaynerSpeakers, we believe that no two events are the same, and no two speakers are the same. We are setting our sights on scaling the unscalable! 2024 will be another year for massive growth. Let’s embrace it with open arms and creative minds. Happy New Year!!!
Mastering the Art of Being Unflappable: The Unsung Heroes of Events
Let’s get one thing straight: the world of events isn’t for the faint-hearted. It’s a high-stakes, high-stress game where only the most adaptable, team-oriented, communicative, and ice-cool professionals thrive. If you’re thinking about diving into this whirlwind, buckle up – it’s not just about juggling schedules and coordinating travel. Maybe that’s why I left the event planning side, to focus specifically on the on-stage speakers. Adaptability: The Swiss Army Knife of Skills In the events industry, ‘routine’ is a mythical concept. Every minute, hour, day, and event, throws a new curveball, and if you’re as rigid as an old oak tree, you’re in for a tough ride. Adaptability is not just your survival kit, it’s the only option. It’s about thinking on your feet and being ready to turn Plan B into Plan A at a moment’s notice. Because, let’s face it, Plan A often decides to take a vacation right when you need it the most. Teamwork: It’s More Than Your Job Description If you think your job title confines you to a set list of tasks, think again. In events, you’re as much a part of the team as the chairs are part of the decor (essential, but often overlooked). It’s about doing whatever it takes – sometimes that means stepping out of your comfort zone to ensure everything goes off without a hitch. Remember, there’s no ‘I’ in team, but there’s definitely a ‘u’ in ‘survive this together.’ No leader is beyond any task they would ask of their team, and no entry level employee should turn their nose at any chance to show their ability and willingness to do more than expected. Communication: The Linchpin of Event Success Think of an event where communication breaks down. It’s a recipe for disaster, right? That’s precisely why effective communication is the linchpin holding the entire event together. It’s not just about talking to one another; it’s about making sure your words resonate, motivate, and assist. Whether it’s calming a nervous client or directing staff, how you communicate can spell the difference between a triumph and a mishap. Don’t assume anything, but don’t patronize either. Success lies in the middle. Calmness Under Pressure: The Zen Master Trait The event industry can make a pressure cooker look like a zen garden. Staying calm under pressure isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s an essential skill. It’s about keeping your head when everyone around you is, metaphorically, losing theirs. This cool demeanor doesn’t just keep your blood pressure in check; it also instills confidence in your team and clients. Remember, a calm sea never made a skilled sailor. There will be headaches and issues, that much is inevitable. If you expect them, you’ll be ready for whatever is thrown your way, and able to anticipate the same issue the next time around. Conclusion: The Soft Skill Symphony To excel in the hectic world of events, you need to orchestrate these soft skills into a symphony of seamless execution. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being prepared, proactive, and personable. These skills are your armor in the battleground of event management. So, suit up, and show the world that when it comes to events, you’re not just a professional – you’re a maestro.
Beyond the Bio: What VaynerSpeakers Seeks in New Clients
All it takes to be a professional speaker these days is adding “Keynote Speaker” to your Instagram profile. Meanwhile, some of the most prolific speakers can walk down the street without being noticed, and their names would hardly catch anyone’s attention if overheard. So, how does anyone actually navigate the vast sea of potential speakers? As a bureau, that’s where we thrive. Not only do we do that for customers booking their next event, but we also do that every day as we consider new exclusive clients. We pride ourselves on representing speakers who are not just accomplished in their respective fields but strive to understand the audiences they speak to while inspiring, educating, and engaging them through impactful talks. What exactly do we look for in new clients? While it is much more of an art than a science, let’s explore some key criteria that guide our process: Expertise and Authority: The foundation of any successful speaking career is deep expertise in a particular field or subject matter. We seek clients who have achieved a high level of mastery in their respective domains, whether that’s entrepreneurship, marketing, technology, leadership, or any other area of expertise. Not only do we look for clients who have earned recognition for their accomplishments and can speak with authority, but those with a signature idea, theory, or philosophy. Compelling Storytelling: It’s not just about what you know; it’s about how you convey that knowledge. Equal parts captivating narrative and effective communication, we seek speakers with a voice that enhances their message, whether that is loud, powerful oratory, or measured nuanced dialogue. Diversity of Thought: We believe that diversity is paramount to our future. Be it race, religion, ethnicity, gender, ideology, and especially, diversity of thought. We actively seek clients from diverse backgrounds, industries, and walks of life and are committed to representing a wide range of voices and viewpoints to ensure that our roster reflects the rich tapestry of human experiences. Commitment to Growth: The world is constantly evolving, and so are the needs and expectations of customers. Our clients are individuals who are committed to continuous growth and learning. They are open to feedback, excited to adapt their message, and always striving to enhance their speaking skills and impact, year after year. Authenticity and Integrity: Authenticity is at the heart of effective communication. I’ve said it many times before, but audiences can see straight through a charlatan’s fluff on stage. We look for clients who are genuine, transparent and have a strong sense of integrity. Authentic speakers connect with audiences on a deeper level and leave a lasting impression. They not only speak on a specific subject matter but live it every day. Ultimately, VaynerSpeakers is dedicated to representing thought leaders who have not only achieved remarkable success but also possess the qualities and values that align with our mission. We believe that by partnering with clients who embody expertise, compelling storytelling, diversity of thought, a dedication to growth, and embody authenticity, we can continue to elevate the world of speaking engagements and inspire positive change. If you’re a passionate thought leader ready to make a difference through the power of speaking, we invite you to explore the possibilities with VaynerSpeakers. Together, we can amplify your message and drive meaningful change in the world. Let’s embark on this inspiring journey together. For more information on becoming a VaynerSpeakers exclusive client, visit https://vaynerspeakers.com/contact-us/
Do Events Use Social Media Effectively?
If your social feeds resemble mine, they are littered with event promotions, but it is difficult to discern one event from another. Most events simply utilize an image and a photo of their speaker to promote the event. No harm there, but why not get creative and engage your audience to generate more interest? I know that corporate bureaucracy and marketing don’t often work together, but I thought I’d highlight a few simple ideas to creatively promote events. Provide Context: Events typically bring in headliners to help draw attendees, but not all events can afford recognizable speakers and most events have more than just headliners. However, I rarely see a group tell their audience the reason why they selected the speakers who will be on stage. Trust me, these decisions are not made lightly. So why not share the rationale to help your audience understand the thought process and get as excited about the speakers as the event planners? Engage Before the Event: I hear from speakers and audiences alike that the post-speech Q&A is always a highlight. Yet, it’s surprising that more groups don’t engage their online audiences in advance of an event to offer the opportunity to pose questions. This tactic would alleviate the concern of Q&A getting derailed by fans telling stories, instead of asking a question while standing at a microphone. It also helps build excitement for attendees to see if their question gets asked and to hear their name called in front of a large crowd. Post-Event Engagement: I often see events featuring their hashtag on signage at an event, but rarely do I see events incentivizing attendees into actually using it. How about a contest to post takeaways from a speaker, with winners receiving a copy of a speaker’s signed book? It doesn’t take anything groundbreaking to encourage people to engage with your event on social media. I am also always blown away by the lack of engagement between an event and its attendees not only during an event but afterwards as people proudly post from on site. It’s also an opportunity to solicit feedback from someone who clearly has a voice, otherwise, they wouldn’t be posting in the first place! Networking Opportunities: During the pandemic, we all pivoted to virtual events, albeit some faster than others. One thing was abundantly clear during this time: there was no replacing the networking that takes place in person. Most people enjoy the opportunity to say hi to an old friend over coffee, meet new people at lunch, or simply share insights while walking in/out of a ballroom. Yet, once the event ends, people still want to network and events can offer support through digital matchmaking, tagging attendees, surveys, etc. Let’s not let the event end, when the event ends! Now, more than ever, events are trying to become year-long properties, not simply owning a day or two. Effectively utilizing social media to not only creatively promote your event, but build community and engage directly with your audience can maximize the impact you have, and deepen the relationship between event and attendee. At VaynerSpeakers, We believe that social media is a powerful tool for transforming events into unforgettable experiences. By thinking creatively and strategically, you can leverage these platforms to engage, educate, and inspire your audience.
Celebrating Half a Decade with VaynerSpeakers: Lessons from Our 5-Year Journey
This week marks the five-year anniversary of VaynerSpeakers. It has been a true adventure and reflecting on our journey, the peaks and valleys, the standing ovations, and the silent moments of awe, I wanted to share some of the more valuable lessons that have shaped our narrative. – No Two Events Are the Same, Don’t Treat Them All the Same: The idea behind every decision we make, keeps us energized to over deliver for our clients and our customers. There are more events, and more speakers, than ever before. Understanding the uniqueness behind each, and how to find synergies is what makes us different. We are aiming to scale the unscalable and will not waver in our passion for maintaining a bespoke approach to everything we do. – Authentic Storytelling Transcends Boundaries: Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of working with speakers from diverse backgrounds, each carrying a unique story. And while their tales varied, their impact consistently resonated. It’s a testament to the power of authentic storytelling – it knows no boundaries, no biases, only human connection. It also shows respect for the audience, that they can see through charlatans, and prefer honesty and experience. – Growth Requires Embracing Uncertainty: From the early days of VaynerSpeakers where we were regularly understaffed, to navigating the norms of a virtual world during the pandemic, to experiencing the joys of growth pains, we embrace the uncertainty that each day brings. This mindset has allowed us to pivot, innovate, and continually serve our community in ways we hadn’t imagined. Our ability to remain nimble and make quick decisions has proven to be a competitive advantage. – Community is Everything: Our speakers, our customers, our team, and all of you – you’re not just part of our network; you’re our community, our family. Your support, feedback, and the shared excitement for every meaningful moment have been truly motivating. – Continual Learning Fuels Impact: One thing I try to tell myself every day, is that just because it’s been done a particular way before, does not mean it has to be done that way moving forward. Our team is made up mostly of individuals without experience in the speaking industry. We’ve learned to keep our minds open to learning, and receptive to change. This has ensured that our strategies stay ahead of the curve, and allow us to experiment with new ideas regularly. Lastly, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has believed in VaynerSpeakers these last five years, shared a stage or a story, or simply cheered us on from the sidelines. Here’s to more shared success together, to more voices that inspire, and to another five years (and beyond) of VaynerSpeakers!
The Power of Perspective: Booking Endemic vs. Non-Endemic Speakers
Booking a speaker for an industry event can be quite the challenge. It brings to the table two main paths: choosing an endemic speaker with deep roots in your industry or a non-endemic speaker who comes from a different field. Both choices offer unique advantages and challenges, and understanding these can lead to a more enriching event. Endemic Speakers: Insiders of Your Industry Pros: In-Depth Knowledge: Endemic speakers are well-versed in your industry’s language, trends, and challenges. They often have years, if not decades, of experience, making their insights precise and relevant. Credibility: An endemic speaker’s track record within the industry adds credibility and authority, enhancing the impact of their message. Targeted Content: Their specialized focus ensures that the content is tailored to your audience’s needs, providing actionable insights. Cons: Potential Bias: Being deeply entrenched in the industry might lead to a narrow perspective that lacks fresh ideas or innovative thinking. Familiarity: If the speaker is well-known within the industry, their thoughts and opinions may not be new to the audience, reducing the excitement factor. Counter Productive: By bringing in an industry speaker from outside your own organization can limit perception of your own company’s expertise. Non-Endemic Speakers: Fresh Perspectives from the Outside Pros: New Insights: A non-endemic speaker can offer a fresh perspective and novel ideas that might not be apparent to those inside the industry. Their outsider’s view can lead to breakthrough thinking. They may not speak your language, but they can still have a great impact. Broader Appeal: The insights from a non-endemic speaker might resonate with a more diverse audience, making it appealing for mixed industry events. Inspiration and Motivation: Stories and ideas from another field can inspire and energize the audience in ways that familiar narratives may not. Entertainment: Breaking up the day with a speaker from outside your industry can reduce the monotony of your content and can energize a crowd. Cons: Lack of Specific Knowledge: Non-endemic speakers might lack the detailed understanding of your industry, making some of their insights less applicable or requiring more effort to translate into actionable strategies. Potential Disconnect: If not carefully selected or briefed, a non-endemic speaker might miss the mark in connecting with the audience, leading to a lack of engagement. Audience Alignment: It can be a tough needle to thread, to find a speaker outside your industry that has broad appeal to a wide audience. Striking the Balance The decision between an endemic and non-endemic speaker doesn’t have to be a binary one. Here are some strategies to get the best of both worlds: Multiple Keynote Approach: Consider having both types of speakers, allowing for a rich blend of insider expertise and general interest. Careful Briefing: Regardless of the direction you opt for, ensure your speakers are well-briefed about the industry and the audience’s expectations. Collaboration with an industry expert can also bridge the knowledge gap. Audience Analysis: Understand your audience’s needs and expectations. If the event aims to challenge and provoke new thinking, a non-endemic speaker might be more suitable. If it’s about reinforcing industry practices, an endemic speaker could be the better choice. Conclusion Choosing the right speaker requires a thoughtful understanding of your event’s objectives, the audience’s needs, and the message you want to convey. Both endemic and non-endemic speakers offer valuable pathways to success, but they come with their distinct flavors. Balancing these aspects can lead to a memorable and impactful event that resonates with everyone in attendance. Whether you decide to stay within the confines of your industry or explore new horizons, the power of perspective is an asset to be harnessed creatively. Be open to new ideas and you might be surprised by the results!
