Selling Your Services: Stand Up on That Soapbox | Travel Research Online

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Selling Your Services: Stand Up on That Soapbox

“Propose a topic and offer yourself as a speaker.”

Selling Your Services by Robert W. Bly, page 57

There is no doubt in my mind that this marketing gambit is by far the most effective way to accomplish your marketing objectives. The problem remains that it is also the most feared. This has always confused me.

There are so many benefits from adopting this strategy that if not doing so, you might want to seriously consider crafting a short talk sooner rather than later.

First of all, there is no “down-side.” You contact groups, organizations, clubs, associations, and companies within driving distance and say something like this:

Click on the book to grab your own copy of "Selling Your Services"
Click on the book to grab your own copy of “Selling Your Services”

“Mr. Jones, my name is Mike Marchev. I am a spokesperson for the travel industry and have been following the safety issues when traveling abroad very closely. I have an informative 20-minute presentation dealing with security abroad and I would like to offer it to you for future consideration.

My 3-Part Program consists of fifteen minutes of tips and reminders coupled with a handful of beautiful slides of overseas destinations. I conclude by opening up for questions. Your group is sure to enjoy and benefit from this information.

What does your schedule look like? Why don’t we get together to discuss the possibilities?

I will plan to contact you within the next few days to check your interest.”

One of three things can result from this:

(1) Mr. Jones will ignore you and your proposal. This won’t hurt a bit. You are still positioning yourself as a proactive leader.

(2) Jones will decline your invitation. This does not mean he is a slug. (But it certainly does not position him as an innovative, “make-things-happen” leader.)

(3) He will receive your follow-up call and schedule a meeting. (Now you’re talking!)

Something else occurs from preparing short industry-related talks. You become smarter and more familiar with your subject matter. There is an old saying that reminds us that if you want to learn something, teach it. This is as true as rain.

The secret is to talk about something you feel passionate about. That way you already have 80% of your talk imbedded in your mind. There is no need for sleepless nights or unnecessary stress. You already know what you already know. All you have to do is share your knowledge with others and get ready to have the time of your life.

Why make marketing your business hard? Share your experiences with people.

Sound simple? It is.


Mike presents a business-building webinar on the third Thursday of every month sponsored by AmaWaterways. To receive monthly invitations send Mike an email with the words “business training” in the Subject Box. You will also receive a link to the recorded version.

For information on Mike’s Fourth Annual Training Cruise, email Mike at mike@mikemarchev.com with the word “cruise” in the subject box.

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