Mom Said, "Just Do It!"

Actually lots of folks have said I should...but Mom gets top billing.  Because...she's Mom!

I had just finished my address to members of an association we represent.  The talk was on finding new markets and retaining customers.  As usual there was a break between segments so I mingled, took questions and settled in next to the Executive Director of the association to listen to the next speaker.

Ten minutes into his address my client turned toward me and said, "He's pretty good.  You're going to like him." 

So I listened...intently.  And she was right.  He was pretty good.

As his presentation was winding down I said to her "That was good, but I think I could have done better or at least different."

She looked at me and said, "Yes, you can.  Why don't you?"

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh......

"Really Michael, why don't you do public speaking on a regular basis.  You're really excellent.  I've thought so for years."  She might know, I've presented to her group four years running.

I called my wife and Mom...  "What do you think?"

So...here we go.

From the hotel I called our design team, sent out notes to executives I've spoken for, asking for recommendations, and started scrambling for recordings of some of my past speeches.

Within a week we had the media kit done and forwarded on to Five Star Speakers of Overland Park.

It's really a natural.  I've been doing public speaking on a regular basis since 1982 following my election as the president of the Iowa Junior Chamber of Commerce.  I've spoken to thousands of people on dozens of topics.

But...I've never marketed this ability.  People see me, call me and ask me to come and speak.  I'd tailor a speech around their event, and go...usually not charging a dime. 

Will it work?   Yes it will...  And, I look forward to coming and speaking to your group about "Passionate Change", "Self Invention", "Marketing to Rural America" and social media...

But, I fear this means yet another Blog...

Michael P. Libbie - Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications (This is the 'new' communications part of the company...thanks for reading!)

Comments

[Doug Mitchell]

I'm glad you listened to Mom Michael :) A few of us blogganostra are putting together a platform that will allow you to share that speaking brilliance...and all of the other great material you produce in an online subscription based marketplace with all of the technical goodies surrounding it.

Adam clearly says, "If you could sell your Intellectual Property online and make money while you sleep...wouldn't that be great?"

Let's chat sometime soon if this sounds interesting.

Yes...another blog. Good luck.

[Craig Dick]

Great for you Michael, this is one area I really need to work on. I have to agree with Adam's comments, there is a big market for selling you thoughts and insights (no pun intended) on marketing and tips on public speaking.

[Michael Libbie]

Doug...thanks for reading! And, this does sound interesting. Let's visit early next week? I'll give you a shout on Monday???

[Michael Libbie]

Craig: Thanks...really. It just seemed like a natural...of course our clients will continue to get the GOOD Stuff...first. Thanks for reading and your comment! MPL

[Georgie]

I think what they're trying to say...and what we all agree on, is - you have the gift of gab! Good luck!

[Michael Libbie]

Hey you...thanks! I think!!! Now all we have to do is get somebody to "listen"...

[Art Dinkin]

Michael, The best of everything to you as you begin this new branch. As another resource, I have a close connection with a speakers bureau located right in town. Give me a ring and I will connect the two of you.