How to Secure an Agent for Speaking Gigs

If you’re interested in getting an agent for speaking gigs, it’s important to know how to hook one. Keep reading to learn how.

Regardless of how professional you are as a speaker, it can be difficult to connect to a good agent. When looking at it from the perspective of an agent, it’s a good idea to consider how many packages they get from hundreds, sometimes thousands, of speakers a year.

For this reason, they don’t have a lot of time to sift through boatloads of information about why they should take you on. They shouldn’t have to search to find the gold; you’ve got to make it exceedingly easy for them. To start, contact the agent by e-mail. Make the message short and to the point, while cutting out most of the marketing speak.

What You Should Do

To create a good e-mail, there are a few do’s and dont’s. Begin with an opening line, something which encompasses who the target audience is, your niche, and what you primarily speak about. Next, explain how long you’ve been speaking and provide them with a link to a previous speech, along with a couple high quality photos. A headshot and a speaking photo should do well.

Next, give an idea of how high your fees generally are, indicating you’re aware the agent takes a commission from that fee. Provide a short bio, 400 words or less, including credentials. Add a bullet point list of notable clients or groups you’ve spoken for, one short client testimonial, and a link to your website. If possible, make the website as agent friendly as possible.

What You Shouldn’t Do

Just as there are numerous things you can do to improve the chances of securing an agent, there are a number of things you can do to hurt the chances of finding an agent. To start, never be long-winded or overly detailed, but get right to the point. If possible, don’t use superlatives or words used to exaggerate. Avoid marketing lingo, instead be as specific and honest as possible.

Jason Hartman knows the importance of being professional, an essential element of hooking an agent. Avoid getting too friendly or informal as the agent will be looking to build a professional relationship with you over time. Finally, it’s a good idea not to send multiple follow-up e-mails. Only send one, and only send it after a couple weeks to make sure they received the first message.

Do you think it’s necessary to have an agent to launch a speaking career? Like, share, or comment to let us know about your experiences.

The Speaking of Wealth Team