A book recommendation from Dan Beaulieu.
From the Soapbox to the Stage: How to Use Your Passion to Start a Speaking Business
By: Bill Corbett
I like that the author takes such a step-by-step approach to a subject that many of us find scary, public speaking, and makes us believe that even we can speak for a living. I love that. I admire the way Corbett decided one day that he would become a professional speaker and in the inimitable Nike style, ‘just did it.”
Even though this book is focused on becoming a professional speaker, the information provided could be used as instructional manual to help you achieve your career goal–whatever that might be.
If you think about it, the most important step to becoming a successful speaker is to find your subject; to know what you’re good at, what interests you, and, most importantly, what you’re passionate about.
Chapters in this book address when, how, and why to give free speeches; how to get on the radio and how to get your own radio show, even if you have to pay for air time (I had no idea!); how to make the right connections; and how to use your bully pulpit to become an “expert” in your field.
Do you ever wonder how those talking heads get on CNN to discuss the topics of the day? This book tells you how.
There’s also a chapter about creating your professional credibility by writing an e-book. You have to like that. The author claims you can write and publish an e-book without typing a word. Wondering how that works? If you’re a speaker, why would you want to write when you can “talk” an e-book?
And, finally, there’s a very good chapter on how to write a proposal and what to charge, which is something I personally find challenging at times. If you want to be a professional speaker you need to have this book; if you’re already a professional speaker, there’s plenty you can learn by reading this book. If you’re not a professional speaker, and don’t plan to be one, this book will still help you with whatever your career is. I promise.
