Public Speaking Bureaus and Organizations

Public speaking bureaus and organizations offer resources to boost the public speaker's career
By Kelly Shetsky, Anchor/Reporter Public speaking associations are a group of passionate professionals who want to share their experiences and knowledge. They are a source of support, networking and solutions for public speaking. Bureaus help members build referral systems so you can expand your client service list. You also reach a wider audience and generate more revenue.

Public speaking bureaus and organizations link you to workshops and seminars. You exchange thoughts about the industry, gain ideas, advice and inspiration. You open yourself up to new job opportunities and build lifelong friendships. As a result of member benefits, your professional development and public speaking skills are fine-tuned. Consider:

1. Using public speaking organizations to grow as a professional in the industry.

2. Reviewing various membership levels.

3. Taking advantage of educational, networking and job opportunities offered by speaking groups.

Join speaking bureaus to meet and collaborate with peers while growing professionally

Speaking bureaus range from international groups to statewide or local organizations, all with one goal in mind: to advance the public speaking industry.
Try:  Advanced Public Speaking Institute links you to public speaking organizations, bureaus and services. The Connected International Meeting Professionals Association (CIMPA) connects public speakers through meetings and events. Register for a conference or event online. American Seminar Leaders Association (ASLA) strives for the highest standards of ethics and quality in the seminar business. It's open to anyone entering or already in the public speaking industry. Become a seminar leader online.

Pay annual dues to belong to speaking bureaus

Public speaking agencies' dues usually range depending on the membership level. Once you find an association you want to join, decide what type of commitment you are willing to give.
Try:  International Group of Agencies and Bureaus (IGAB) is a speakers association made up of speaker bureaus and agencies. Members come from all over the world and participate in continued professional development. They also stick to the highest level of professional standards. Print the membership form, complete it and return to IGAB. National Speakers Association, Northern California Chapter (NSA/NC) is a group of trainers, professional speakers and educators who speak to audiences of all levels. NSA/NC inspires people through education, example and community. Contact NSA/NC for membership information.

Benefit individually and professionally from joining public speaking agencies

When you join speaking organizations, you gain access to industry information, presentation skills training, marketing training, certification and business management training.
Try:  The National Speakers Association (NSA) is the top association for professional speakers. NSA provides resources and education to promote the integrity, skills and value of members. Members include people from a variety of industries. Members can attend a variety of seminars and conventions to further their professional growth. Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS) has 11 chapters throughout Canada. The group's goal is to promote the professionalism and profile of its members. Member benefits include numerous video conferences and events. Buy books on hosting a successful webinar through the CAPS website.

• Make use of all the resources available at your professional speakers association to advance your career.