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Get People Talking About YOU!

January 7, 2013 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

So, you have a limited budget to spend on promoting your speaking business? Well, the strategy described in this first issue of my Speaking IDEAS newsletter for 2013 is perfect for people who have that challenge.

Read on to learn how to get yourself favourably noticed by potential buyers of your speaking services, without burning a hole in your pocket.

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Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 7th January 2013

No: 71

Title: Get People Talking About YOU!

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2013.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking [Monday]:	31st Dec – Manage Your Relationships Smarter To Succeed Better 24th Dec – You Will Be Sorely Tested 17th Dec – What If You Need To “Do It Yourself”(DIY)?
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]:	31st Dec – You Need To Adapt To Succeed 25th Dec – Reduce Your Customer Acquisition Cost (Lessons From My 4 Week Sales Prospecting Experiment) 18th Dec – Free Farm Business Support
Self Development [Wednesday]:	31st Dec – You Alone Are Responsible For Your Fortunes 26th Dec – You Need Conviction To Succeed 19th Dec – Paying Tribute To 5 Experts Who Made Me
Career Development [Thursday]:	31st Dec – 4 Reasons To Make Writing Your Key Marketing Strategy 27th Dec – Why You Need A Planned Activity Tracking Sheet 20th Dec – Will You Sink If Your Boss Leaves
Parenting [Friday]:	31st Dec – Teach Your Kids To Make Money 28th Dec – Be A Role Model For Your Kids On Speaking Truth 21st Dec – A Unique Ability Your Child Needs
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	31st Dec – Why Article Marketing Is Still Effective 29th Dec – Use Your Smartphone To Boost Productivity (5 Tested & Proven Tips) 22nd Dec – How Far Should You Go To Get Comments?
Want me to write for you? Click here…

Get The NEW Excel-VB Ration Formulator!

All existing owners get FREE Updgrade(terms apply) : Happy New Year in advance to you all. This new version has additional error handling.

And it allows you to store 3 RATION FORMULAS you derive for easy future retrieval.

By 16th January 2012 the price goes up to N12,500.

You can still get it for N10,500 (with my Feed Formulation Handbook) – here.

No. 71: Get People Talking About YOU!

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NB: If you ever find yourself wondering what else I’ve written, some days after you’ve read THIS Speaking Ideas newsletter I send out on a Monday, here’s what you can do to find out: Point your browser to www.sdacademy.org to read at least ONE new post added to my SD Nuggets blog on a different category from Tuesday till Saturday (sometimes even Sundays) in line with this publishing schedule

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So, you have a limited budget to spend on promoting your speaking business? Well, the strategy described in this first issue of my Speaking IDEAS newsletter for 2013 is perfect for people who have that challenge.

Read on to learn how to get yourself favourably noticed by potential buyers of your speaking services, without burning a hole in your pocket.

First, Be Clear About Your Target Audience & Purpose

Who is your target audience? And what exactly can you do for them that others who do what you do cannot? You need to be clear about these two important issues from the start. Otherwise you could end up (as they say) barking up the wrong tree.

Then consider where/how you can reach your target audience most easily, and in their largest numbers. (I suggest a mix of online and offline strategies – more on this later.)

NB: If you need help doing the foregoing, Burt Dubin offers tested and proven guidance.

Once you’ve got the above sorted out, it becomes easier to develop and implement the strategy I propose below to reach and impact them, and get the response you want.

Next, Think and Act Differently From Others

Define and differentiate yourself from others who do what you do. Even if you know 1,000 other expert speakers in your chosen niche, you CAN still set yourself apart.

It starts by thinking and acting differently from them.

“Who’s that?” is what we usually ask, when someone steps out from the crowd and does something previously unseen or unheard of. It could be something “exceptional” – or even “bad”. And sometimes it could just be “controversial”.

For our purposes doing something “good” or “controversial” will probably be best

Example: Richard Branson & His Virgin Group Of Companies

Branson has revealed that he gets his company prime time news exposure by thinking and acting differently, so as to get favourably noticed.

Examples include his well publicised attempts to do things not done before e.g. attempting to set records in sailing etc.

It rarely matters whether Branson succeeds or fails in any of his audacious bids. By simply publicising his intention to achieve what most may consider an impossible goal, he often successfully gets himself into the news.

Ironically, some of the activities he engages in are sometimes not even directly related to the business he’s trying to promote. But they will often be relevant to current or future high profile interests (e.g. space travel) and therefore attract media attention.

What Branson does is to skillfully weave a message linking his company (e.g. by way of values) with the activity he’s getting attention for. That exposure then rubs off on his company – drawing attention to the products and services he promotes.

Another benefit is that he gets more invitations to speak. People want to hear (and ask him) how he did/does it.

Tools You Can Use To Get Yourself Noticed & Talked About

You don’t need to attain Branson’s celebrity status before you can use the same strategy to cost-effectively achieve your unique marketing goals.

I suggest developing and utilising the following resources:

Your Branded Website: Marketing your speaking service can be enhanced by using a website. It can be done on a shoe string budget too. Clearly state the benefits to potential clients – and include your About, Contact, and other pages.

Your Branded Blog: Don’t stop at having a website. Add a WordPress based blog to it. (Bold emphasis on WordPress is deliberate. It’ll make things easier!). Publish new updates and interact with visitors/prospects who read your writing.

Your Branded Content: Commit to constantly creating NEW articles, newsletters, books, as well as video and audio resources. Distribute them via 1, 2, above as well as 4 and 5 below.
NB: Keep in mind the need to “stand out” from the crowd. Many people write articles and books. But it’s what you write. The ideas you put forward. Your unique message – and the VALUE it adds to readers. That’s the key to ultimately getting noticed and talked about.

Add to that your demonstrated consistency in churning out new content to the same or possibly higher standard – and sooner than later, people WILL start talking about you.

Your Branded Social Media: Be sure to integrate social media into the above. For instance, get your new updates to appear on your social media profiles.

Your Branded Offline Marketing: Make sure your calling cards, flyers and other print marketing media refer contacts to your online resources (1 to 4) above.

My use of the word “branded” in 1 to 5 is for deliberate emphasis. Remember that the whole idea is to stand out from the crowd. So, let your branding be unique: Logos, taglines, graphics – all should enhance your uniqueness and appeal.

There should be little chance of a potential client mistaking someone else for you!

It’s NOT About How Much Money You Have!

Like I said at the start of this write-up, the strategy I advocate you adopt is perfect for people who have limited funds to spend promoting their speaking services.

(Psst: It actually leaves more money in your pockets. And that would possibly be better spent getting guidance from a competent mentor on how to find the right market to promote your speaking service to! Remember what I said about not barking up the wrong tree?)

We periodically hear of people achieving fame simply by putting up a creative video clip on Youtube.com that subsequently goes viral (or publishing an e-book that becomes a bestseller).

Today’s PC and Internet technology makes it possible for any willing person to cost-effectively get noticed and talked about.

Final Words: How This Strategy Got People Talking About My Farm Business Support Service

I feel a need to end with a personal example. Not to brag. But just to illustrate the many REAL ways in which using this strategy can work well for you.

In 2006 , I decided to set myself apart from other providers of support services to farm business owners and other stakeholders. Instead of offering the same general services, I identified areas I could help them develop and implement concepts/tools to manage their farm operations more productively in line with best practices.

First I published an authoritative handbook on how to use the diagrammatic Pearson Square Computation technique to formulate rations for livestock. Later I developed a Ration Formulator software (with tutorial videos) to accompany the handbook.

I then invested hundred of hours in regularly researching and writing what I labeled “Cost-Saving Farm Business Ideas” articles on a similarly named website. Some of those articles were submitted for syndication to the Ezinearticles.com directory.

The results have been phenomenal. I’ve come across farm business discussion forums where links to my website were posted in response to an enquiry by a user.

I’ve personally had many visitors to my website type “Referred by a friend” into the “How did you find this website?” field on my contact forms over the years.

There have also been phone calls, emails and face to face meetings. One day I walked in for a first meeting with a CEO. On seeing my face he said “I know you!”. A ew seconds later, he turned his laptop screen around to show me my Speaking IDEAS newsletter (with my picture in the header image), which he told me he read weekly!

Some people have contacted me after watching my videos, reading my articles, and then purchased products from me. Others have written to thank me for doing what I do…

Here’s a message sent in by a visitor (and later buyer) via my Farm Business Support website contact form:

“I would like to be notified when i(n)formation on rabbitry is published, and i would like to thank you for all your works they have been a source of inspiration for me and some of my friends.” – Burhan Akhalid, Accountant, Zaria, Kaduna State – Nigeria.

To put it simply: this strategy works. I therefore urge you to use it this year, to get more potential clients to discover you, and talk about you.

Happy New Year – and have a lovely week!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

Tayo Solagbade is a Performance Improvement Specialist & multipreneur. He works with individuals/businesses who want to achieve highly profitable outcomes, and also with parents who want to raise real-world competent children.

Tayo earns multiple streams of income providing clients with performance improvement training/coaching, custom MS Excel-VB solutions, web marketing systems, freelance writing services, and best practice extension support services (for farm business owners).

When he’s not amazing clients with his superhuman skills (wink), Tayo works as the creative force behind his Self-Development Nuggets™ blog, and Public Speaking IDEAS newsletter (which he publishes to promote Burt Dubin’s Public Speaking Mentoring service to experts working across the African continent).

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Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

Here’s a tip: Burt Dubin works with people who want to be speakers, and with speakers who want to be masters. Click here to visit his website NOW and submit a contact form message telling him what challenges you’re facing, and how you’d like him to help you. Tell him I sent you, and you’ll get a pleasant surprise offer from him.

Comments?

What do you think of the above message? Do you have any personal experience to share on this subject? Are there some other points you feel can be added, to help persons looking for answers? Please share your thoughts!

Share this issue!

Do you know anyone who might benefit from reading this newsletter issue? Why not hit the forward button now, and send it to him/her with a short recommendation. You can also use share it via your social media channels. Thanks in advance.

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

All three will get you to your desired destination of “speaking success-ville” – so long as you meet the requirements/play your part well (your fare, abide by the set guidelines etc). During the “flight”, the seat you have will determine how much personal service attention and preference the provider will accord you. It’s that simple

So, make your choice:1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Send me an e-mail with your questions via tayo at tksola dot com. In the meantime, why not get started by subscribing here to get his 7-Part Course (How To Succeed And Get Paid As A Professional Speaker) . . . and receive his monthly newsletter (Speaking Biz Strategies Letter) at no cost.

Get mentored by Burt Dubin - coach of some of the world's highest paid public speakers

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide.

Download this flyer as PDF: http://tinyurl.com/bdubin-africa

Public Speaking

Manage Your Relationships Smarter, To Succeed Better!

December 31, 2012 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

It’s the last day of the year today. In this final issue of my Speaking IDEAS newsletter for 2012, I discuss the importance of managing your relationships, to boost your chances of speaking success.

Your eloquence, qualifications, certifications or even talent or natural abilities matter. But most crucial to your success in ANY area of endeavour – including paid public speaking – will be your mental attitude! And THAT can often be directly affected by what you see and hear around you.

Consider this quote:

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Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 31st December 2012

No: 70

Title: Manage Your Relationships Smarter, To Succeed Better!

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking [Monday]:	24th Dec – You Will Be Sorely Tested 17th Dec – What If You Need To “Do It Yourself”(DIY)?
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]:	25th Dec – Reduce Your Customer Acquisition Cost (Lessons From My 4 Week Sales Prospecting Experiment) 18th Dec – Free Farm Business Support
Self Development [Wednesday]:	26th Dec – You Need Conviction To Succeed 19th Dec – Paying Tribute To 5 Experts Who Made Me
Career Development [Thursday]:	27th Dec – Why You Need A Planned Activity Tracking Sheet 20th Dec – Will You Sink If Your Boss Leaves
Parenting [Friday]:	28th Dec – Be A Role Model For Your Kids On Speaking Truth 21st Dec – A Unique Ability Your Child Needs
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	29th Dec – Use Your Smartphone To Boost Productivity (5 Tested & Proven Tips) 22nd Dec – How Far Should You Go To Get Comments?
Want me to write for you? Click here…

Get The NEW Excel-VB Ration Formulator!

All existing owners get FREE Updgrade(terms apply) : Happy New Year in advance to you all. This new version has additional error handling.

And it allows you to store 3 RATION FORMULAS you derive for easy future retrieval.

By 16th January 2012 the price goes up to N12,500.

You can still get it for N10,500 (with my Feed Formulation Handbook) – here.

No. 70: Manage Your Relationships Smarter, To Succeed Better!

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Consider this quote:

“Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence; Talent will not; nothing is more
common than unsuccessful individuals with talent. Genius will not; the world is full of
educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent” – Ray Kroc (Founder of McDonalds)

The truth is you REALLY need to pay serious attention to anything that can affect your state of mind – an important example being your relationships with others.

You May Have What It Takes To Succeed – But Your Relationships Can Hold You Back

It’s possible you have all the attributes required of a good speaker. And that if – under normal circumstances – you found yourself before the right audience, you would WOW them with your performance.

But you have to find the client willing to pay you to speak first don’t you?

Are you going about it the right way? Who are those you spend time with? Are you able to get good advice from them, to help you along (like a tested and proven mentor would give)? Would you be willing to keep going for as long as may be necessary to find the clients you need?

And what about when you finally win that paid speaking invitation? What if on the VERY day you have to speak, someone upsets you before you leave home?

Maybe your spouse says something nasty that REALLY gets to you. I mean REEALLLY NAASSTY, that you have to go away to calm yourself down :-)))

Or maybe it’s not your spouse.

Maybe someone runs into you from behind as you’re driving to the venue of your speaking event :-)))))))

Yet you have to speak in a few hours from then, at an important event!

How well would you handle yourself out there? Would you be able to deliver at your best?

What can you do to PREVENT such a thing happening to you, and potentially messing up your big opportunity?

I say the key is to control the relationships you have with others.

Thomas Alva Edison – the great inventor – when asked for advice about success did not talk about mastering scientific principles.

Instead he said:

“Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration”.

Edison did not say manifesting genius required a high IQ, a university degree or some other unique academic qualification. Instead he recommended 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.

Considering that this great man was home-schooled by his mother, it goes without saying that one would be wise to believe his words!

Here’s why:

According to an online biography I read some years back, when he was in school, Edison’s teachers concluded he was “addled” (a term used derogatorily to mean a person’s brain was not functioning normally).

Thankfully his mother refused to accept what they told her, and angrily withdrew him from school, to tutor him at home.

If she had agreed with those “lazy minded” teachers, we probably would not have Edison’s 1091 inventions with us today – including the light bulb and electricity!

The above illustrates an example of a beneficial association between a child and an adult – in this case, the parent.

But others have it the other way round. At least Edison’s mother believed in him. Those closest people to us can sometimes be the greatest unbelievers in our abilities.

Some successful people failed to get support from home, and actually found total strangers more willing to believe in them!

Cynthia Kersey (Author of UNSTOPPABLE 45 Powerful Stories of Perseverance and Triumph from People Just like You) wisely noted in her book, that sometimes the negative – unbelieving – person in your life may be someone you cannot eliminate.

A good example is your spouse or father/mother/sibling!

When you share your dream of speaking success, they may feel they’ve known you for so long that nothing you say you’re trying to do can improve on the blunders they’ve seen you make in the past.

As Kersey noted, the saying that a prophet is without honour in his own home is relevant here.

If you have the mental capacity to deal with that kind of situation, and still get on competently with your work, then there’s probably nothing to worry about.

However, if you feel staying exposed to such persons will significantly affect your state of mind, take action to limit your contact with them.

This is not the time to be needlessly sentimental. It’s your life we’re talking about here!

You have every right to make the most of your God-given ability. Letting some insensitive person toy with your feelings and ruin your enthusiasm for pursuing your dream is simply not acceptable.

I Was Ridiculed For Thinking I Could Sell My Excel Software – BEFORE I Started Doing It!

“It’s not enough to be competent or qualified; you must also have the right mental attitude to deal successfully with the challenges/difficulties that will come up when you are engaged in your chosen endeavour. “ – Tayo K. Solagbade

Towards the end of 2004, I had a painfully raw experience of being used as the butt end of jokes – to my face – over an ambitious goal I’d set for myself.

A friend of the family – who had worked for years as a self-employed IT professional – heard I was visiting at the office of a relative and stopped over.

Within minutes of arriving, he began making jokes about my expressed intention of developing software solutions using MS Excel that people would pay for.

When I explained that I believed I could get paid N100, 000 for an app I was showing my relative a demo for, he said “Tayo, we must sell this your software O…we must!”. He repeatedly said this in a mocking tone, bursting into laughter intermittently (and joined by others who sat around – including my relative, and his employee).

You can imagine how that “demonstration” ended for me…:-)

But today it’s on record that I’ve been paid twice that amount by companies, to develop custom spreadsheet software for them.

Like Napoleon Hill noted, people sometimes resort to tactless attempts at humour without considering the impact on the person it is directed against. That singular experience NEVER left my memory. And I successfully used it to push myself to achieve a breakthrough.

Today, I have literally single handedly created a niche for myself as a provider of custom Built-In Excel solutions in Nigeria.

What’s more, I have also achieved name recognition as the developer of certain unique Excel-VB driven spreadsheet software products e.g. my popular Livestock Ration Formulator (built to facilitate automated computation of livestock rations based on the Pearson Square Computation method described in my popular Feed Formulation Handbook) and my Payslip Generator respectively.

Both applications have been purchased by individuals and organizations across the country – and in the case of the former (i.e. the feed formulation software), by international buyers.

It’s possible the family friend who mocked me now realizes how wrong he was.

But whether that will be enough to stop him from treating someone else the same way in future is however a different matter.

And that’s why it’s important for people who set challenging goals for themselves, to adopt what James Cook called a “guiding philosophy” that will help them persist no matter what obstacles they encounter.

Get this: All your degrees and certifications will NOT help you deal with the potentially crippling psychological/emotional effects of mockery, ridicule, and repeated setbacks. You need to “protect” your state of mind, by controlling the environments (relationships with others) you expose yourself to.

Who Do YOU Spend Your Quality Time With?

Demand integrity from all associates. Would you go sailing in a leaky boat? Would you drive on a tire that would not hold air? Then, steel yourself: In cold blood dump unworthy others. – Burt Dubin (Internationally acclaimed mentor of some of the world’s highest paid speaking professionals)

This self-examination must begin from your homes – those closest to you. Your spouse – and kids if any. Then the larger family comprising siblings, parents, uncles, aunts, half-siblings, grandparents and so on.

Next we have your friends, coworkers, and former colleagues, as well as business associates, partners – and also neighbours!

Which of these groups of people do you spend your quality time with? And how do you feel AFTER you’ve been with them?

Do you come away feeling more excited and rearing to give your set goals another go? Or are you left reeling from exposure to multiple put downs or outright ridicule of your ideas and ambitions.

Maybe you find yourself drained of enthusiasm from being told by some that it’s taking you too long to “succeed” – and that you need to pack it in and do something else.

Note those who leave you with negative feelings. Or those who refuse to respect your need to create time to pursue your valued goals.

Resolve to spend less time with them.

In my case, I resolved to keep my distance from all those who’d been involved in making fun of me about my Excel-VB software development. I knew from past experience that THAT was the only way to keep my mind free from distractions, discouraging thoughts and doubts.

However, sometimes your circumstances may limit the options open to you. And you may have to endure remaining in contact that negative person for longer than you want.

For instance it may be difficult to avoid contact with your spouse if you live together!

In that case, you may find reading books that nurture your self-belief (like Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich) very useful.

Anytime you’re feeling deflated, pick up that book and read, and I guarantee you’ll soon feel better – and rearing to go again!

Final Words

Let me summarise as follows:

Your eloquence, qualifications, certifications and status matter. But most crucial for achieving success in ANY area of endeavour – including paid public speaking – will be your mental attitude!

And THAT can often be directly affected by what you see and hear around you.

Therefore your RELATIONSHIPS matter very greatly!

When you see and hear people dismiss your ideas, it can have a lasting negative impact on your mental attitude. Your academic degrees, certifications, and talents will STILL be yours. But you’ll find yourself feeling LESS capable of succeeding!

You do NOT have to let that happen. Don’t let others impose their limitations on you.

Give yourself the best possible shot at speaking success in the New Year: Adopt proven strategies – like those shared above – and start managing your relationships smarter from today!

Here’s wishing you a happy and truly prosperous New Year in advance!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

==================

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

So, make your choice:1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide.

Download this flyer as PDF: http://tinyurl.com/bdubin-africa

Public Speaking

You Will Be Sorely Tested

December 24, 2012 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

Tomorrow is Christmas day. A day on which Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. In the bible we are told of the suffering Jesus endured to fulfil his purpose on earth.

The theme of this week’s issue of my speaking IDEAS newsletter is partly related to the above i.e. understanding how adversity and suffering help YOU achieve success as a paid speaker.

I’m not talking religion here though…

As those who’ve been reading my writing for a while will know, I stopped attending Church back in 1989, in my third year of study in the University.

My reason for taking – and sticking to – that decision will probably be the subject of a future article

Instead I focus here on how having to lead bible study sessions – and come up with my interpretation of the passages for discussion with others – shaped my values systems – and character – as an individual.

SCROLL DOWN TO READ THE FULL ISSUE

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View it in your browser.

Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 24th December 2012

No: 69

Title: You Will Be Sorely Tested

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking [Monday]:	You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 2 of 2
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]:	A World Bank Expert’s Tip On Feed Formulation
Self Development [Wednesday]:	Can You Be Trusted? (Real Life Farm Business Sales Conversations With People Just Like You)
Career Development [Thursday]:	Coach Employees To Manage Them Successfully
General(XMAS END OF YEAR PROMO)[Thursday]:	Pay N10,500 (instead of N18,000) And Get My Feed Formulation Handbook And Software Bundle!
Parenting [Friday]:	Teach Your Kids To Excel Without Apology
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	Improve Yourself For Your Audience’s Sake!
Want me to write for you? Click here…

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

No. 69: You Will Be Sorely Tested

****

NB: If you ever find yourself wondering what else I’ve written, some days after you’ve read THIS Speaking Ideas newsletter I send out on a Monday, here’s what you can do to find out:

Point your browser to www.sdacademy.org to read at least ONE new post added to my SD Nuggets blog on a different category from Tuesday till Saturday (sometimes even Sundays) in line with this publishing schedule

****
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Update (26th Dec. 2012 @ 12.36 pm Nigerian time):

I feel compelled to note here that I did NOT author the phrase which titles this writeup (I.e. “You Will Be Sorely Tested”). I came across it while reading James Cook’s “Startup Entrepreneur” years ago.
================

Tomorrow is Christmas day. A day on which Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. In the bible we are told of the suffering Jesus endured to fulfil his purpose on earth.

The theme of this week’s issue of my speaking IDEAS newsletter is partly related to the above i.e. understanding how adversity and suffering help YOU achieve success as a paid speaker.

I’m not talking religion here though…

As those who’ve been reading my writing for a while will know, I stopped attending Church back in 1989, in my third year of study in the University.

My reason for taking – and sticking to – that decision will probably be the subject of a future article

Instead I focus here on how having to lead bible study sessions – and come up with my interpretation of the passages for discussion with others – shaped my values systems – and character – as an individual.

Stories In Religious Books About Trials & Suffering Can Be Therapeutic

I cannot speak for my siblings, but having to prepare for – and lead – those bible study sessions was quite therapeutic for me. The stories were especially instructive for me in terms of the morals and values they taught.

That was mainly because I was often getting into trouble at school, so that stories about David doing wrong and then singing his way back into God’s heart, for instance, tended to resonate with me. It taught me to forgive myself, and act better in future

Then there is the David Vs. Goliath story. I’ve used it to educate many people – adults and youths – about why they must never let anyone (no matter how powerful) intimidate or oppress them.

And I practice what I preach – by using it to inspire myself to fight back successfully against abusive powerful persons (e.g. politically connected clients with abusive tendencies).

Guess what? In every instance, I found help (by taking relentless personal action) from totally unexpected quarters to the surprise of my opponents! (Google “Science of Getting Rich” and download the FREE PDF ebook to learn more about the philisophies I susbcribe to, which help me achieve these kinds of results).

Another story I have always drawn inspiration from those I read in the bible, is that of Job.

He had so much, then lost it all, and suffered humiliation, insults, from friends and his own better half, for a prolonged (seemingly hopeless) period.

But he stayed strong and firm in heart and mind – refusing to give up hope or faith in the God he (and those who rebuked him for continuing to believe!) worshipped. And eventually his circumstances were turned around to the embarrassment of all those who’d mocked and scorned him.

I STILL draw inspiration from that story today.

As matter of fact, I am so keyed into that story that I’ve used it many times, to remind some persons who actually profess Christian beliefs NOT to give up in the face of adversity!

So much so, that some have told me I should be a pastor…

But again that’s where they MISS the point: It’s not about me becoming a pastor.

It’s about ALL of us learning to take the lessons from the stories and using them to improve our abilities to achieve our valued goals!

For me, I view those bible stories the same way I regard stories told outside religious circles (e.g. the boy who cried wolf). They are to be used to teach useful lessons that guide behaviour.

But it’s not just the Bible that offers useful stories.

The story of the life of Mohammed – the Muslim leader – is one that also demonstrates the power of persistence in the face of adversity.

For over ten years, Mohammed endured hardship, poverty, and exposure to ridicule, before becoming a wealthy and powerful leader. A great story and truly inspiring story!

Many Great People Were First “Sorely Tested”. To Become Great You Most Likely Will Too!

It’s not a curse

I’m just making a statement of fact.

And I do so with reference, not just to my personal experiences (Lord knows I’m paying my dues in that regard!), but also to different true stories I’ve read – like those mentioned above.

It’s important – IMPERATIVE in fact – that you accept that seeking TRUE greatness in any area of endeavour (including the business of paid public speaking) may cause you to be “sorely tested”, with “frequent bad experiences” which James Cook correctly referred to as “shrewd instructors” in his New York Times bestselling book titled “The Startup Entrepreneur”.

Nelson Mandela, as we all know was “sorely tested”…physically, emotionally and psychologically – for decades BEFORE he achieved greatness.

If he had cracked under the pressures mounted on him by government agents through those years, we would not be celebrating him today. In the same way, if YOU crack under pressures of adversity, there will be nothing people can celebrate you for. Period.

In the bible, Christians are told of how Jesus got a point when he was so tested that he asked “God” that the “cup of suffering” be made to pass over him.

But then he added ‘Let thy will be done.”

Prolonged heart breaking struggles (as Cook described them in his book) will not be uncommon experiences for you, if you desire greatness.

To achieve speaking (or business) success for example, you must be willing to relentlessly “smile and dial” to get clients to hire you, no matter how many rejections you encounter.

Just in case anyone tells you suffering is bad, or “not your portion” or meant only for others, I want you to reflect on the examples drawn from the above stories. Some of the greatest people in the world are agreed on this point: There is benefit to be had in every adversity.

Four Quotes To Inspire You To Grow – By Embracing Adversity – In 2013!

In a week or so from today, we’ll be in 2013. Your mental attitude towards adversity may determine how much progress you make towards your goals, from the start of the year.

We have the benefit of access to experience based wisdom about suffering and adversity (and how to respond to them), offered by people who have achieved greatness.

I’ve compiled four of them for your consideration, as you get ready to hit the ground running in the new year…

1. James R. Cook, author of “The Startup Entrepreneur” wrote as follows:

“My study of entrepreneurs so far seems to lead to the conclusion that a correlation exists between suffering and success. Entrepreneurs with modest objectives undergo moderate stress and adversity.

Those with larger ambitions will, before they succeed, endure painful struggles and overcome long, bitter periods of intense anxiety. The greater the suffering, the greater seem to be the inevitable rewards” – James R. Cook (in The Startup Entrepreneur)

2. Here’s what the late Jim Rohn (another great man) said :

“Life is destined to be story of achievement in spite of adversity, not in the absence of adversity; for without adversity, achievement could not exist…. Smile at adversity and act quickly to eliminate it. Expect adversity, for it shall surely appear. Be grateful for adversity for it forces the human spirit to grow – for surely the human character is formed not in the absence of difficulty but in our response to difficulty. All things, even adversity, have their worthy purpose.” – Jim Rohn.

3. The great Emerson also offers useful insight into the inherent benefits of adversity:

“When man…is pushed, tormented, defeated, he has a chance to learn something; he has been put on his wits, on his manhood, he has gained facts, learns from his ignorance, is cured of the insanity of conceit; has got moderation and real skill.” – Emerson

4. And Burt Dubin (2 decade veteran mentor of paid international speakers) provides a fitting end to this Xmas edition of my speaking IDEAS newsletter message, with these words that have inspired me since 2001, when I first read them:

“Surrender to your mission. Let it have you. Your time, your energy, your total focus, your resources. Everything you’ve got. Everything..Work resolutely, tirelessly, endlessly. Nobody said it would be easy… Never give up. Have
bulldog blood. Have bulldog blood. Have bulldog blood! One morning you awaken to find your vision of the future, rooted in the wisdom of the past, is your present reality.” – Burt Dubin

I know I said this was not a religious piece…but you might want to say a loud “Amen!“to the last sentence in the above quote I’ve credited to Burt…:-)

Have a very Merry Xmas!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

==================

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

So, make your choice:1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide.

Download this flyer as PDF: http://tinyurl.com/bdubin-africa

Public Speaking, Self-Development

What If You Need To “Do It Yourself”(DIY)?

December 17, 2012 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

This week, I discuss the potential benefits of adopting a mental attitude that has helped me overcome (or get around) many obstacles in my personal and business endeavours.

The obstacles I refer to would probably have stopped me permanently if I had not possessed this thinking habit.

Indeed, this newsletter and my website – my entire business life in fact – would have long “died” an early death, years ago, if I had not had it.

What I refer to here is my passion for learning how to do things myself – even if just a little bit. That is, being a Do-It-Yourself enthusiast or what some call a DIYer.

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Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 17th December 2012

No: 68

Title: What If You Need To “Do It Yourself”(DIY)?

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking [Monday]:	You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 2 of 2
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]:	A World Bank Expert’s Tip On Feed Formulation
Self Development [Wednesday]:	Can You Be Trusted? (Real Life Farm Business Sales Conversations With People Just Like You)
Career Development [Thursday]:	Coach Employees To Manage Them Successfully
General(XMAS END OF YEAR PROMO)[Thursday]:	Pay N10,500 (instead of N18,000) And Get My Feed Formulation Handbook And Software Bundle!
Parenting [Friday]:	Teach Your Kids To Excel Without Apology
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	Improve Yourself For Your Audience’s Sake!
Want me to write for you? Click here…

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

No. 68: What If You Need To “Do It Yourself”(DIY)?

****

NB: If you ever find yourself wondering what else I’ve written, some days after you’ve read THIS Speaking Ideas newsletter I send out on a Monday, here’s what you can do to find out:

****

This week, I discuss the potential benefits of adopting a mental attitude that has helped me overcome (or get around) many obstacles in my personal and business endeavours.

The obstacles I refer to would probably have stopped me permanently if I had not possessed this thinking habit.

Indeed, this newsletter and my website – my entire business life in fact – would have long “died” an early death, years ago, if I had not had it.

What I refer to here is my passion for learning how to do things myself – even if just a little bit. That is, being a Do-It-Yourself enthusiast or what some call a DIYer.

(NB: In a related article some years back, I described myself as a Jack of Many Trades.)

How Much You Need To DIY, Depends On Your Part of the World

If you live and work in a developed society, the need to do things yourself sometimes, may not readily appeal to you.

However, for people – like me – in less developed social environments – like mine – one often has to develop multiple interests and competencies to make up for the shortage of RELIABLE solutions.

The following true story illustrates the above scenario perfectly.

A few years ago, I met a Nigerian gentleman who had just returned from the USA where he’d been away for about 5 years. During that time he had made a bit of name for himself as an author and speaker. His published book had sold quite well in the small town he was based.

And the local media had given him enough coverage to make him close to being a celebrity of sorts. From what he and his pretty Austrian wife told me, it was at one of his book signings that they met – and fell for each other.

My friend wanted to republish one of his popular books from the USA with a local printer. He also wanted to produce an audio version of the book. This was part of the plan he had to launch himself into the Nigerian market.

According to him however, the problem was that there seemed to be no standard service providers like those in the USA that could do what he wanted. He said back in the states he would simply hand over his manuscript to his agent, and virtually everything needed to get the book published would be handled by the latter.

Out here, he complained about having to run around looking for business centers to type and typeset his manuscript. And then there were countless errors that he had to sit with a computer operator to work through and correct.

To make matters worse, by the time I got involved I discovered they were typing his manuscript in Corel Draw!

My friend had no idea the business centre operator was using an inappropriate software application for his work.

He said “I just want it done! Back in the states I never had to get involved like this. I know nothing about all of this stuff”.

To cut the long story short, I had to really get involved in helping him find the right places to get the help he needed.

And that included going out of my way to locate a studio where he and his wife could produce the quality of recording they wanted for the book’s audio version.

Here’s what he asked me at a point: “So how come you know about all these things? You’re not even a book publisher or anything!”

My answer was that I’d learnt the hard way that it was better to know a little about most things I planned to engage others to do for me. That equips me to assess what they do for me – and also contribute intelligently to the process – even do a few things on it by myself, should they be unavailable.

That Doesn’t Happen In Your Country? Great! But What If One Day, It Does?

Now, what my friend went through can happen to anyone in one form or the other. Maybe you won’t be coming to speak here in Nigeria. But right there in your base things can still go wrong.

How ready will you be when that happens? (NB: I recall reading New York Times stories that described the experiences of people who’d failed to heed warnings issued about Hurricane Sandy. Some of them got trapped – a few even lost their lives, because they failed to prepare for the unlikely but possible!)

So I ask you: What are the things you currently depend on others to do for you? It could be a service provider or even a friend you have great confidence in. Maybe she’s a tech savvy person who prepares all your PowerPoint presentations for instance.

I hate to think negative too…:-)

But what if for some reason, she becomes temporarily unavailable?

Do you have ready access to someone else you can reliably reach out to? And if not, do you have any idea of how to prepare a PowerPoint presentation as impressive as those she does for you by yourself?

What about preparing your speaker one-sheets?

God forbid you discover a wrong phone number or mistyped email address on the newly prepared speaker one sheet you want to give a meeting planner!

If you had requested a copy of the raw Corel Draw or Photoshop file used to prepare it, maybe you’d be able to edit it, and print out a corrected version. If not…you’d risk making a poor impression!

Anything can happen. Don’t Be A Fish Out Of Water When It Does!

It happens. Even the most reliable of people – your trusted assistant or highly reputable provider inclusive – can make mistakes or fail to come through for you when it matters.

Will you be prepared with an alternative plan if/when that happens? Or will you just try to wing it?

People often value a professional who can improvise and adapt effectively. If you come across as being that way, meeting planners may conclude you are a more “reliable” performer who can deliver no matter what goes wrong.

Translation: More invitations, even referrals, likely from them for you.

Ironically, you may only need to know a little about most things, to achieve this significant impact.

And learning those little things may just require PROACTIVELY spending a little time with those who do those things for you normally. Or it could mean making out time to read – and practice what you learn from – a self-help (or DIY) tutorial!

Have a lovely week!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

==================

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

So, make your choice:1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide.

Download this flyer as PDF: http://tinyurl.com/bdubin-africa

Public Speaking

You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 2 of 2

December 10, 2012 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

This is the second and concluding part of this issue of my Public Speaking IDEAS newsletter from last week. I narrate the story of a young man who learns the importance of never feeling inadequate in pursuing a valued goal.

My message is that you can pursue your speaking goals without waiting to have everything you “feel” you “need”. This is because many times, not having those other “things” may actually mean you do NOT need them to achieve the progress you seek!

“No enterprise would ever begin, if all obstacles were first to be overcome.” – Napoleon Hill

A Senior Colleague Warns Me To Stay Away From Her…!

As word about my relationship with Annugo gradually got out, a few colleagues began teasing me about it.

However, none came across as being resentful in anyway.

That is, until one day, when Udenihc (a senior colleague on a management grade above mine, who joined the company five years before me), took me up on the subject when he ran into me in the office shared by shift managers.

I’d gone there to reconcile manufacturing data I was collating for a report.

The following conversation ensued(in part):

Udenihc: “Oyat, I notice you’re getting close to that new IT girl – Annogu.”

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Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 10th December 2012

No: 67

Title: You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 2 of 2

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking [Monday]:	You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 1 of 2
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]: – A	Feed Formulation Without Tears (Educational Commercial)
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]: – B	PDF REPORT: How To Calculate Your Farm’s Cost of Egg Production
Self Development [Wednesday]:	PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT COACHING: Achieve Your New Year Goals & Resolutions, Regardless of Adversity!
Career Development [Thursday]:	Read This Or One Day The Boss’ Presentation Could Flop Because Of You!(Part 2 of 2)
Parenting [Friday]:	3 Parenting Truths You Need To Know
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	Do Short Articles Always Perform Better? Really?
Want me to write for you? Click here…

Burt’s Flagship Album

This is the product to own if you can own only one. Why? Because in it you discover principles of platform mastership available to you nowhere else at any price.

You hear performance strategies you can emulate. You shorten your learning curve. You see ways to engage and delight audiences with both content and stories . . . plus you experience a bit of fun.

With its Money back if not delighted Guarantee hardly any are returned.

Find out why

No. 67: You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 2 of 2

****

NB: If you ever find yourself wondering what else I’ve written, some days after you’ve read THIS Speaking Ideas newsletter I send out on a Monday, here’s what you can do to find out:

****

“No enterprise would ever begin, if all obstacles were first to be overcome. – Napoleon Hill

A Senior Colleague Warns Me To Stay Away From Her…!

As word about my relationship with Annugo gradually got out, a few colleagues began teasing me about it.

However, none came across as being resentful in anyway.

That is, until one day, when Udenihc (a senior colleague on a management grade above mine, who joined the company five years before me), took me up on the subject when he ran into me in the office shared by shift managers.

I’d gone there to reconcile manufacturing data I was collating for a report.

The following conversation ensued(in part):

Udenihc: “Oyat, I notice you’re getting close to that new IT girl – Annogu.”

Me: “So, what if I am?”

Udenihc: “Do you know she’s actually from my home town?”

Me: “How does that have anything to do with me – or indeed my interaction with her?”

Udenihc: “Oh, so you don’t get it ehn? I mean you should know it’s better for her to go with someone from her own tribe!”

Me: “I can’t believe you just said that to me. Since when did it become compulsory for girls to choose who they go out with based on tribal affiliation?”

Udenihc: “I knew you would argue about this. You’ve always been a stubborn guy. Anyway, I just want you to know I’m interested in the girl, so you leave her alone!”

Me: “Well, I think you’re wasting your time talking to me about that. Just go to her, and let her know how you feel. I’m sure if she feels the same way she’ll come to you, and stop coming to me!”

Just as I said that, another manager walked in and Udenihc gave me one last look and walked out. I still recall looking after him and shaking my head in mock pity at how comical he had made himself look before me – “a mere trainee” – over a girl.

When Annogu came visiting some days later, I mentioned my encounter with Udenihc, and she instantly burst out laughing.

Before I could ask her why, she explained that he had called her that morning on the company’s internal phone line to her department, and told her the same thing.

She added that she had simply told him she had a right to choose who she spent her time with.

So, as it turned out, I did not even have to exert myself to have the matter resolved in my favour!

A Valuable Life Lesson

I think about things a lot. It’s an instinct that’s always served me well. I seem to be driven to extract useful and relevant meaning from everything that happens to me, or that I observe.

Doing so has often enabled me become a better and more competent person.

For that reason, I always encourage those I coach to cultivate and nurture a similar habit, if they wish to make faster and more rewarding progress.

After reflecting on what had happened, it occurred to me that by being myself, I had let Annogu see who I really was, and she apparently had decided she liked what she saw.

This was enough to make her decline invitations from others who, apart from ranking higher than I did at work, were also financially and materially more endowed than I was.

It was a great eye opening lesson for me at the time, and made me resolve to continue being true to myself at all times, no matter what.

How Can This Help YOU As A Speaker?

I suggest you use the above narrative, as a reminder that you will often already have the most important things you need, to win over your client or target audience.

Instead of running around trying to acquire other tiny extras you feel will help you make a better impression, why not focus on letting those you approach see the authentic you, and make up their minds?

This way, you increase your chances of getting chosen by a prospective client whose values actually resonate with yours.

And when that happens, you’ll have a much better chance of enjoying emotionally rewarding, and profitable relationships with your clients – and audiences.

And it would have cost you much less in effort, time and money, compared to a situation in which you may have tried to win them over by trying to present yourself as having more to offer than you really do.

Too many times I have seen people obsess themselves with what, in my honest opinion, amounts to “over preparation”.

That ultimately keeps them from ever feeling ready to go out and do the necessary “pavement pounding” – literally, and figuratively speaking!

No One Wants To Buy The Box. They Want What’s INSIDE The Box!

My message in concluding this 2 part issue of my Public Speaking IDEAS newsletter, is therefore that it can be counter productive, to focus on the material possessions, or personal attributes you lack.

You can achieve more useful progress as a speaker (or one aspiring), by emphasising and building on what you already have, to get where you want to go.

Simply accept that you have to start where you are with what you have.

So many highly accomplished people became notable authentic successes by doing just that.

Many times all you really need to do is show up: make that call, send that email, visit that CEO or meeting planner. In other words, TAKE PERSONAL ACTION! (My favourite “War Cry“)

>> Who says you have to wear a designer suit to impress the board of directors as the guest speaker?

>> Do you really need to arrive driving a newer looking car, to command the attention and interest of the meeting planner?

>> Must your press kit and marketing materials be printed on painfully expensive stationary ,to convince a newspaper editor to do a feature on you?

The answer to ALL the questions listed above is ” NO”!

To Improve The Quality Of What You Have “INSIDE” Your Box: Get A Competent Coach!

Of course if you are fortunate to have the resources, then by all means go ahead and impress with your outer packaging!

However, except you operate in a market where merit and competence do not count for much, it would be naïve to expect that pretty packaging can in anyway cover for lack of tangible value in your offering.

Sometimes, even if the box is not so attractive, when people see that its contents offer useful value, they would still gladly pay a premium to get it.

I choose to see the stuff I lack as “missing” features of the box in which I offer myself to potential clients.

To enhance my chances of success, I explore creative ways to get my target audience to see what I’m really like inside. Where possible, I do what I can to “repair” the missing aspects, but I generally don’t sweat it if my efforts fall flat.

This attitude has repeatedly won me numerous opportunities to earn income and even get high profile marketing exposure in mass media (like TV and newspapers) at zero cost.

If I had let my mind dwell on what I lacked, that could qualify me to earn such rewards, I would never have plucked up the courage to go out and achieve those surprising wins like I did.

When next you’re in doubt, think about what I’ve said here!

[Psst: One of the ways I work to improve myself on the inside is by reaching out for competent support from a coach or mentor. I suggest you do the same.

To improve yourself from the inside, as a speaker, consider getting help from a tested and proven mentor of professional speakers.

As usual, I highly recommend Burt Dubin – and not just because I get rewarded for getting anyone to signup for his mentoring

I recommend Burt because I KNOW from applying his ideas, and also studying others who do what he does, that he truly offers the best value for the money clients pay.

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Have a lovely week!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

==================

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

So, make your choice:1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide.

Download this flyer as PDF: http://tinyurl.com/bdubin-africa

Public Speaking

You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 1 of 2

December 3, 2012 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

In this week’s issue of my Public Speaking IDEAS newsletter, I publish part ONE (of a two part) true story that I believe illustrates the FACT that most times we already have ALL we need to succeed, but are often not aware of it or too scared to believe it!

Instead of a story about public speaking or marketing however, I share with you one about a 25 year old who thought no girl could be interested in him. Then one day he found himself being chosen over others by a VERY pretty new girl, who even his senior colleagues had their eyes on!

SCROLL DOWN TO READ THE FULL ISSUE

Is this email not displaying correctly?View it in your browser.

Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 3rd December 2012

No: 66

Title: You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 1 of 2

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking[Monday]:	Smart Entrepreneurs Make More Money By Speaking
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]:	Join My Farm Biz Ideas Club & Get Answers To Your Questions, PLUS Massive Discounts To My Products & Services!
Self Development [Wednesday]:	Are You A Social Chameleon? (Read This To Find Out!)
Career Development [Thursday]:	Prepare Pay slips Without Tears – And At Zero Cost – Using MS Excel!
Parenting [Friday]:	Challenge Your Child To Dream BIG, & To Enjoy The Excitement Of Striving To Accomplish That Dream!
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	They Falsely Accused & Physically Assaulted Me…But Ended Up In Police Custody! (True Story)
Want me to write for you? Click here…

Burt’s Flagship Album

This is the product to own if you can own only one. Why? Because in it you discover principles of platform mastership available to you nowhere else at any price.

With its Money back if not delighted Guarantee hardly any are returned.

Find out why

No. 66: You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 1 of 2

As a speaker (or one aspiring) one of the daily challenges you’ll most likely face – being the normal human being you are – will probably be periodic doubts and fears.

Thoughts like the following could fill your mind every now and then: “How am I going to face the CEO when that door is opened? What if she says no? Maybe others will laugh at me. What if I bungle my presentation?

It’s only human to periodically feel like that. However, those who achieve success learn to bring such emotions under control. They then make the best use of the talents they are born with, and other abilities they have developed, to achieve their goals.

This week, I publish part ONE (of a two part) true story that I believe illustrates the FACT that most times we already have ALL we need to succeed, but are often not aware of it or too scared to believe it!

By the end of part 2, you will hopefully have discovered how quite often we keep thinking we’re not ready, when we’re already fully competent to compete with others, and win at what we want to do!

A Workaholic 25 Year Old…

It was less than 6 months ago that I joined the new plant as a trainee manager. But since helping to resolve a major problem with the Lotus macros driven Monthly Report program, news had spread quickly about me – and my self-taught skills.

Even the brewery head had me assigned to his office for 2 weeks, to help compile data and produce charts for an all important presentation.

When I was free, I studied plant manuals and process work instructions in the Training Centre. My goal was to know them inside out in theory and practice. So I stayed with floor operatives after office hours till 11pm, only to resume as early as 6.00a.m.

At 25, and living alone, I let nothing else interest me…

One Day, I Felt Something VERY Different, And Rather Pleasant…

But all that changed when one day, while taking a break for some air outside the training centre, I saw her…and time stood still.

Since the day – back in primary school – when a lying female classmate had accused me of peeping at her in the toilet, I had never spared any serious thought for girls.Anytime I saw one, all I felt was anger and resentment.

She was small statured, but confident looking and stunningly pretty in the stretchy tank top she wore on a mid-length pleated skirt. No females in the company dressed that way. I was mesmerized.

Suddenly, she turned her head and beamed a smile in my direction. I looked behind me, saw there was no one there, and realized it was meant for me. Goose bumps popped up all over my body. I stared as she walked into the administrative block. Then voices of factory trainees returning from break snapped me out of it.

“Stop it!” I told myself. “How Can You Let A Girl Get To You Like This?”

As the day went on, I wondered who she was. “She can’t be a graduate trainee“, I thought. Except she’s a late recruit. But I doubted it. She looked like she was still in school.

During lunch in the management dining room, I heard some male managers saying, “Have you seen the new Industrial Attaché girl?” One replied “Wow, she is really something. I hear she’s from a higher institution in the east. That girl certainly knows how to dress!”

I nodded silently in agreement to the last statement, then frowned as they began arguing about who would get to take her out first. “That’s not right”, I thought. “But that’s what guys do!”, a voice in my head told me. “Then I guess I’m just a freak since I will never join in”, I retorted.

I decided to avoid her. These were full managers, and I was just a trainee. If they were that interested in her, I was not willing to make enemies for myself.

But Fate Apparently Had Other Plans…

I could never have seen it coming. One afternoon, I was working on the monthly report program, with the TM pointing out changes he wanted.

Suddenly, we heard female voices. Not long after, the IT girl walked into the adjoining library with Ailedif, the secretary. I did a double take. The PC status bar showed it was break time. “Of all the ladies on site, she had to pick the one that works here?” I groaned.

Listening as they chatted excitedly, I tried to act normal, and looked calm and collected – at least outwardly. But I had all kinds of drums beating inside my chest!

Thankfully, my spreadsheet trouble shooting aptitude was intact. I soon rectified the persistent error reported by the TM. Very pleased, he openly commended me. As if on que, Ailedif and the others loudly chanted the nickname they had given me; “Guru!!” as the TM walked away.

Neb walked up behind me, and put his hand on my shoulder, then turned to the IT girl and said, “Look this guy is a guru. He can make this program do anything he wants. See my boss who just left grinning from ear to ear? That’s because of guru himself.”

I laughingly told them to stop, but they would not be deterred. So, I focused on printing out the needed usage rates and variable cost analyses report sheets from the application.

For a while after that, I could feel her look my way intermittently, as she spoke with the others. The secretary later saw her off, and returned to join me in stapling the printed report pages together for the technical review meeting.

As she walked to the filing cabinet behind me, she said “I think Annogu likes you. She asked me a lot of questions about you, and was particularly impressed when I told her you did not study computer science, and that you learnt to type so fast by yourself.”

I replied “Oh come on Ailedif. I’m not in the mood for that kind of talk. You know I don’t have time for girls.”

She replied “I know you’re a workaholic. But I really think the two of you actually fit each other. Anyway, I’m telling you now that she likes you. Don’t be surprised if she comes looking for you one of these days”.

I snorted in disbelief, saying “Forget it. You know that’s not going to happen.”

Thinking To Myself I Said…

“I mean who’s she kidding. Everyone knows I’m not much for looks. Back when I was a trainee on the Lagos plant, I recall RC jokingly saying ‘God you’re ugly!’, one day when I walked in sweating, from the process area. And he was someone who was actually quite fond of me!

Talk less of a girl like this, who from the way they’re all acting, is the prettiest that most guys on this plant have set eyes on in a long time. To make matters worse, I don’t even use a car. Add that to my lack of good looks, and it’s clear she could never be interested in someone like me!”

Oh, But How Wrong I Was!

The first time it happened, I was alone in the office. Luckily for me, one of the training instructors had given me a heads up via intercom (while the others hooted with laughter in the background) that Annogu stopped over at the workshop to ask if I was in.

Few seconds afterwards, she knocked and came in, smiling.

And so it began. Since I spent most afternoons working on the PC typing work instructions, she would often come over and sit with me (sometimes till close of work), asking questions about work and people in the brewery.

The time we spent together often felt like we were in some kind of paradise. We simply lost track of time!

As the weeks went by, we got to know each other better. She was a student from a higher institution in the east.

When she told me her Dad was a High Court Judge, I jokingly asked if he would not have me thrown behind bars if he found out she was going around with a Yoruba guy (she was of the Igbo tribe).

A Senior Colleague Warns Me To Stay Away From Her…!

Click here to continue to part 2 of 2..

Have a lovely week!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

==================

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

So, make your choice:1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide.

Download this flyer as PDF: http://tinyurl.com/bdubin-africa

Public Speaking

Enough Reading – It’s Time You Started Giving Talks!

November 19, 2012 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

“One thing is certain: the accepted way to learn to swim is to plunge into the water” – Dale Carnegie in his book titled ‘How To Develop Self-Confidence and Influence People By Public Speaking’.

Public speaking is a very practical endeavour. There is only so much you can learn by reading up on it. To really make progress you must at some point commit deliberate effort to put what you learn into practice.

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Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 19th November 2012

No: 64

Title: Enough Reading – It’s Time You Started Giving Talks!

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking[Monday]:	Everyone Needs Coaching – Even YOU
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]:	A New Generation of Entrepreneurs PROVES That Our Schools Need To Offer a Different Kind of Education!
Self Development [Wednesday]:	It’s Okay To Be Human: So Take Risks, Make Mistakes, and Feel The Joy of REAL LEARNING!
Career Development [Thursday]:	How To Make Yourself UNRETRENCHABLE
Parenting [Friday]:	Ten Practical Steps You Can Take To Help Your Child Discover His/Her Purpose In Life
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	How I Discovered And Used Print-On-Demand (POD) Publishing For The First Time
Want me to write for you? Click here…

PRESS RELEASE

New EBook for Writers Uncovers 10 Often Overlooked Habits Keeping Many from Achieving Their Writing Goals

Click here to learn more…

******************************

No. 64: Enough Reading – It’s Time You Started Giving Talks!

“

“One thing is certain: the accepted way to learn to swim is to plunge into the water” – Dale Carnegie in his book titled ‘How To Develop Self-Confidence and Influence People By Public Speaking‘.

In 2002, when I started out in business, the only real experience I had of speaking in public was from my participation in the Nigerian Institute of Management’s Young Manager’s competition at the zonal and national finals – where I placed 5th overall (after flopping badly).

Nothing I had done in Guinness Nigeria as a paid employee compared to the experience of standing before a hall filled with strange faces from different parts of the country, silently evaluating my every utterance.

Amongst them were Ph.D. degree holders as dignitaries and judges. Others were journalists from different media houses. The attention of everyone in the packed auditorium was focussed exclusively on each presenter for his/her 15 minutes in the spotlight.

The rush of adrenaline I had felt each time I stood before the audience as the competition progressed was what convinced me I wanted to be a speaker. The irony was that rather than look for a school where I could learn to speak effectively, I chose to purchase a copy of Dale Carnegie’s above mentioned book and devour it from cover to cover more times than I can now remember.

I’ve always been that kind of person – with a DIY and self-tutoring mentality.

In January 2002, I decided I would use public speaking to simultaneously earn income and also promote the products and services I offered to the different audiences I spoke to. As I’ve explained in past write ups, this approach not only got me invited to speak to audiences in places like the Centre for Management Development (CMD), it also enabled me win orders for my information products, as well as my natural aquariums.

What’s important to note is that I did the needed reading up, and then went out to put what I’d learnt to use in the real world. And that’s what I’m asking YOU to start doing from today!

Should You Be Afraid When Looking For Gigs?

Was I afraid when I first did it?

Not that I can remember – and I mean that honestly…not to brag.

You see, the truth is I needed to succeed so badly that I knew I could not afford to let myself become afraid of taking action to find PAID speaking opportunities.

That’s what Napoleon Hill said would happen to those who burn all their bridges, to cut off all sources of retreat. They effectively put themselves in a situation where going forward is the only logical thing to do.

You basically realise that fear is not an option. You either succeed or sink!

Looking back now, I realise I was probably a bit too ambitious, because I actually started out looking specifically for paid speaking opportunities.

And when I smelt one, I proved quite a hard nut to crack during negotiations. Mr. Akindele of CMD said that much by the time we managed to agree a revised amount for the honorarium he offered me based on what past speakers had been paid.

Should YOU be afraid as you go out to look for speaking gigs – whether paid or free?

It’s not bad to feel afraid, but my experience suggests that with proper preparation fear will become less of a concern for you by the time you decide to go hunting for gigs.

Suggestions About What You Can Do

1. Write And Publish Something Authoritative..And Use It To Get Invited

That’s what I did in my very first year as an entrepreneur to get paid speaking opportunities. Months before I left my job, I’d distributed questionnaires across Lagos and Benin, and analysed the completed ones to complete a management research paper titled “Self-Development As A Tool for Career Advancement (A Practical Guide Based On Experience) “.

When I launched out in January 2002, I sent copies of my new paper to key experts, and professionals in different organisations, with a cover letter stating that I would be glad to deliver a talk to share my insights based on the paper’s findings.

That effort eventually got me invited as a guest speaker at the CMD, where I spoke to over 100 staff, managers, and directors based on my newly published management research paper.

As I’ve noted elsewhere, this strategy also got me invited by (then Dr.) Pat Utomi to meet with him in his office at the Lagos Business School.

When you create something new, unique or different, and do it to a high quality standard, those who matter will take conscious notice of you. What’s more, what you offer will be appealing because people who matter usually like to be seen as thought leaders, and may wish to put it on record that they saw and acknowledged you first.

I have repeatedly used variants of that same strategy via low cost media like the Internet to create self-marketing opportunities for myself. Most recently, I’ve published a new ebook (titled “Why You Keep Failing To Achieve Your Writing Goals!“) which is already yielding beneficial exposure, leads and sales for me just 2 weeks after I published it in my online store.

NB: One of the students who heard me mention the above when I spoke to them at the University of Lagos auditorium asked me how I found the courage to contact “big people” like Pat Utomi.

I answered him by saying I basically reminded myself that “Pat” and all the other “big people” were made of flesh and blood just like the rest of us.

That, to me, implied they were not spirits to be feared, but high performing persons to be emulated.

And to emulate them, I needed to reach out to them and LEARN from them. Once I got that clear in my mind, finding the courage to contact them became easy. Try it, and you’ll see it works, I told him.

Now, I’ve told YOU as well!

2. Re-Package What You’ve Written In Other Forms, Then Use It To Offer Other Talks, And To Generate Back Room And Other Sales

In that same first year (2002), I was engaged by the Corona Schools Trust Council to speak at all six branches of their school over a two month period. This happened after I delivered a free talk to an audience comprising the Executive Director and other members of staff at the Trust Council.

What did I speak about?

It was simply a list version of lessons from my management paper which I’d titled “Ten Ways You Can Use Self-Development To Become A Flyer At Work“.

About a year later, two of the teachers who’d heard me speak at their branch had moved on to head their own schools. And both separately hired me to build my custom natural self-cleaning aquariums (which I’d mentioned during my talks as being useful teaching and learning aids) for their new schools.

By the end of that year, I’d converted that talk to an e-course which people subscribed to online. A year later, I’d made it into an MS Word based book manuscript – which I would eventually convert to PDF and publish as a print manual (called the Self-Development Bible) using Print On Demand Technology in my online store.

By 2004, I had written about 5 additional reports designed to interest decision makers in target organisations I had in mind. Then I went out and promoted them using a flyer, offering to speak FREE to teaching staff and administrators in schools. Adrao International School on Victoria Island invited me to deliver a talk based on my new report titled “How To Be A Jack Of Many Trades, And Why It Can Make You Succeed More Often“.

I used a lot of the ideas I’d learned from reading Burt Dubin’s articles, to find out what interests they had. Then I built what I learnt into the talk. By the time my one hour talk was over on the agreed day, the principal gave a vote of thanks and then led the others in placing advance orders for virtually all the reports and books that I had on display in the back room. 48 hours later, I delivered the reports, and got paid.

3. Talk About What You Do, Whenever You Sense Value To Be Had

I think someone called it having a nose for business or something. If you really apply yourself to what you do, you’ll actually get to a point where your senses become so finely tuned, that you can literally “feel” an opportunity when it becomes available.

I cannot explain it, but most authentic entrepreneurs will confirm that this does happen.

You develop a sixth sense that helps you identify useful selling opportunities, so you can make the most of them. I do this a lot, and interactions that would normally have ended on a friendly social note, sometimes evolve into a serious business transaction within 24 to 48 hours as a result.

Basically, what I do is indirectly talk about my products and/or services (including talks I offer), by narrating entertaining anecdotes to interest listeners. Once I get their interest, I then try to steer the conversation towards discovering whether or not I can offer a similar solution to those I speak to.

Interestingly, sometimes doing this may not yield any immediate results. Then one year later, you could get a call from one of those you told your little story. And she could invite you to give a paid talk at say, a one week training event she’s conducting for a corporate client of hers.

The above financially rewarding experience happened to me. And I could not help thinking if I had chosen to be “over-humble”, and not spoken up about my CMD outing to the consultant, he would never have thought I could be useful to him in that manner.

Final Words: Don’t Wait Any Longer – Get Started Giving FREE And/Or Paid Talks Today!

It’s important to avoid becoming a professional student.

There’s a time to learn and a time to put what you learn to work in the real world. Why not think up a 30 minute (or one hour) talk on a topic relevant to your niche or target market? Then offer it to target organizations fitting the profile you have in mind.

If no invitations are immediately forthcoming, consider approaching non-profits and socio-religious organisations. Many have members who are decision makers in organisations you wish to reach. A good showing in such outings could make those decision makers tell their companies about you – or even contact you there and then.

The point I’m making in this issue is that you need to put together an action plan to get your public speaking business started.

And there are many ways you can go about doing so. What’s worked for me may not necessarily work the same for you. However, there’s often only one way to find out – and that’s by JUMPING into the pool of life, and getting yourself wet with learning by discovery.

Don’t wait any longer. Get started today. And if you need help, consider getting coaching support from Burt Dubin, creator of the Speaking Success System, who has done it, and coached others to do it VERY WELL, for over 25 years – details provided below!

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

So, make your choice:1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Have a lovely week!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

==================

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide.

Download this flyer as PDF: http://tinyurl.com/bdubin-africa

Public Speaking

Everyone Needs Coaching – Even YOU

November 12, 2012 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

PREVEIW: This week’s issue of my speaking IDEAS newsletter is based – in part – on excerpts from my latest ebook titled “Why You Keep Failing To Achieve Your Writing Goals!” – for which I recently published a press release.

“Even if you’re on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there” – Anon

I’m good at learning and doing new stuff by myself. Yet, I readily take advantage of any opportunity to improve myself by learning from others. My personal philosophy is based on the principle of continuous improvement, and this corresponding definition of success:

“Success is a journey in the never ending pursuit of excellence – and not a destination.”

I happen to believe I can learn from anyone regardless of age, gender, race or any other factor. As far as I’m concerned, as long as that person knows (or can do) something I want to know (or be able to do) to become better, s/he can be my coach. Period. Those who know me will confirm I practice what I preach.

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Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 12th November 2012

No: 63

Title: Everyone Needs Coaching…Even YOU

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking [Monday]:	To Succeed, Prepare To Grow Grey Early!
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]:	Never Accept Shabby Treatment Because You Need Business!
Self Development [Wednesday]:	Is it RIGHT To Do Wrong, So As To Fulfill FAMILY Obligations?
Career Development [Thursday]:	Ten Ways You Can Use Self-Development To Become A High Flyer At Work
Parenting [Friday]:	Getting Your Kid to Drop a Bad Habit: A Proven Strategy Parents Can Use (True Story)
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	Earn EXTRA Income Using Your Writing Skills As A Contract Resource Person
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	New EBook for Writers Uncovers 10 Often Overlooked Habits Keeping Many from Achieving Their Writing Goals
Want me to write for you? Click here…

PRESS RELEASE

New EBook for Writers Uncovers 10 Often Overlooked Habits Keeping Many from Achieving Their Writing Goals

Click here to learn more…

******************************

No. 63: Everyone Needs Coaching – Even YOU

This week’s issue of my speaking IDEAS newsletter is based – in part – on excerpts from my latest ebook titled “Why You Keep Failing To Achieve Your Writing Goals!” – for which I recently published a press release.

“Even if you’re on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there” – Anon

I’m good at learning and doing new stuff by myself. Yet, I readily take advantage of any opportunity to improve myself by learning from others.

My personal philosophy is based on the principle of continuous improvement, and this corresponding definition of success:

“Success is a journey in the never ending pursuit of excellence – and not a destination.”

Those who know me will confirm I practice what I preach.

This attitude has helped me achieve tremendous success in a wide variety of endeavours – to the surprise of many.

And that’s why I also make a point of giving credit to those who “coach” me to success in any areas of my life.

My First Personal Paid Coach

For instance, up till this day, I tell all who will listen, that my strong foundation in basic HTML, which proves so valuable – even today – in managing my websites and blogs, was developed way back in 1998.

Back then, over a period of about 8 weeks (of one-on-one personal paid coaching), Victor – a light complexioned teenage operative in Benin city’s Prest Cyber Cafe painstakingly taught me most of what I know today about HTML website design.

Understand this: I was a high performing middle level manager in a large corporate multinational. When the Internet “movement” came into town, I quickly saw the opportunities it could create for me.

So, in my usual early adopter manner, I went all out to find out what I could do to get competently involved in its use. A few visits to cyber cafes around soon made it clear there was a lot to learn before one could graduate from being just a content viewer/user on the Internet, to become a contributor (e.g. content publisher) on it.

And I instinctively knew I wanted to belong to the latter group. So, I dispensed with my advanced spreadsheet applications developer “bragging rights” earned inside my company, and accepted the humble cap of a “website developer wannabe” – with my teenage coach.

For me, it took only a few seconds to make this mental switch.

I however realise that for some people in a similar position (especially in my part of the world), it may take considerable effort to do what I did.

That is: to “travel by bus” – everyday – from my air conditioned office, to a run down cafe on the other side of town, to learn from a “small cyber cafe operator boy” who did not even have any formal credentials to show

Build On What Your Coach Gives You

The way I saw it, all I needed to know was that he could create web pages using HTML code in notepad, and add (at the time) impressive looking GIF animations to them.

That was enough for me. And I knew that once I had learnt the basic stuff from him, my well developed aptitude for self-tutoring would take over.

It’s over 14 years afterwards, and that’s exactly what has happened.

Without attending any other formal coaching classes, I have successfully built on the foundation Victor gave me, to become highly proficient at developing websites, and other web based resources.

But even during that time, I’ve periodically identified a need to get coached by different people in other areas of interest. So, you see, it’s a continuous process.

And it should be that way for every person who wishes to operate at close to his/her fullest potential at all times. No one ever knows it all.

We must continually strive to improve ourselves – even when people already call us the best. That’s what keeps true champions at the top of their fields (or sports) for decades on end e.g Pete Sampras, Roger Federer, Michael Jordan etc. You know their kind

Not Everyone Can Successfully Self-Tutor: Coaching Support Can Take You To The Next Level!

Fifteen years of coaching people from different backgrounds and age groups, have however taught me that not everyone is comfortable with self-tutoring like I am.

This does not mean they are weak. We all just have different learning styles. Some of us do better when we have someone – constantly available – to guide and challenge us (and even cheer from the sidelines), as we aim for new heights of achievement.

Indeed, certain people who have already reached a respectable level of success may now need coaching intervention to revamp their “plateaued” careers!

For instance there are the seeming one-hit wonders in different fields e.g. The guy who made it big last year and has since “gone quiet”. Quite often coaching support can help such persons rediscover themselves.

A coach can guide you to effectively address factors that may be affecting your progress. In addition s/he can help you hone your skills so that you become better over time.

Even people who are already doing well, look for coaching support to improve themselves. This applies to all areas of our lives – including public speaking.

Avoid The Trap of Thinking You CANNOT Need Help

As experts-who-speak, there’s a real danger of assuming that because people look up to us for learning or information, we may not need anyone to learn from.

The reality is however very different. Majority of the world’s most productive people have been known to readily acknowledge specific people in their personal and work lives for providing them with valuable coaching feedback.

The relationship may be formal or semi-formal (like the one Oprah Winfrey shares with her popular fitness and health coach). At other times it could be informal – like the one Michael Jordan shared with his late father.

What is important to note is that these successful people realised they needed help to not only stay at their best, but also to improve on their achievements.

The minute you conclude you have nothing new to learn from anyone else, you set a trap of ultimate retrogression for yourself.

And it WILL show through eventually – because when you do not seek ways to add value to yourself, you will eventually run out of “value” you can add to others. And those who learn from you will eventually discover that you have less to offer.

When you no longer add value to audiences as a speaker, guess what will happen when next they seek a speaker for their event…? Your phone may probably not be the one that rings…I’m sure you know what I mean

Final Words: Nature, Indeed Life As A Whole, Abhors imbalance!

The Chinese famously talk about the opposing “Ying” and “Yang” life forces. In science we learnt about action and the equal and opposite reaction.

You and I – we all – are a part of a balanced universal ecosystem. You cannot be different when it comes to this rule: you must strike a similar balance in your own life, otherwise you will struggle to achieve your full potential.

Yet again, the amazing (late) Jim Rohn comes to my rescue with another very apt quote:

“We could all use a little coaching. When you’re playing the game, it can be hard to think of everything.” – Jim Rohn

So, let me now urge you to take a deep and honest look today at yourself. Where are you NOW, in your career as an expert-who-speaks?

Ask yourself if you could do better than you are currently doing.

Then look around (online and off the net) for persons who can help you improve yourself.

It’s important to emphasise here that you do NOT necessarily have to make direct contact with the individual you decide to make your coach.

If s/he offers resources like websites, blogs, newsletters you can use to gain access to his/her “wisdom”, start with those. Then over time, gravitate towards making direct contact if/when you feel prepared to take your relationship to that next level.

Sometimes what you get through the remote resources may end up being all you need. At other times, you may discover you need more personalised attention via paid telephone mentoring and so on.

What’s important is that you take action to get the coaching help you need. By so doing, you’ll be better positioned to achieve your most valued goals. And one day you will look back with a sense of fulfillment at your worthwhile accomplishments.

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

So, make your choice:1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Have a lovely week!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

==================

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide.

Download this flyer as PDF: http://tinyurl.com/bdubin-africa

Public Speaking

Should You Market Something You Won’t Deliver?

October 22, 2012 Tayo Solagbade

Preview: I want to tell you a story. A real-life experience that I had very, very recently. At the end, I simply ask YOU to be the judge as to what really happened.

It was a Friday morning. I had gone out with my 3 year old daughter to make a few purchases at the computer village. On my way back to the car, I ran into a gentleman who managed a financial institution I periodically visited(let’s call him "Triks").

We exchanged pleasantries for a while, then the following conversation ensued:

Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP)Newsletter
Date: Monday 22nd October 2012
No: 60
Title: Should Your Market Something You Won’t Deliver?
Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]
Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog
Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view
Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Following last week’s hacker attack, I’ve decided to (for now) host the web version of this newsletter on the SD Nuggets blog, and link to it from the non-WordPress based Speaking IDEAS blog via a preview.

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

SD Nuggets Blog™	New posts from last week that may interest you!
Public Speaking [Monday]:	Wine Making…& Your Speaking Proficiency
Entrepreneurship [Tuesday]:	Should You Write With A Target Audience In Mind?
Self Development [Wednesday]:	Why Do YOU Do What You Do?
Career Development [Thursday]:	How To Turn A Major Blunder At Work Into A Career Advancement Opportunity
Parenting [Friday]:	Your Kids Need Teacher-Educators, NOT Teacher-Dictators (10 Distinguishing Traits)
Writing/Blogging [Saturday]:	Six Potentially Useful Measures of Your Blog’s Performance (Hint: Comments Vs. Five Others) – No. 3 in series on comments.
Want me to write for you? Click here…

=====

No. 60: Should Your Market Something You Won’t Deliver?

I want to tell you a story (names, location etc changed for privacy). A real-life experience that I had very, very recently. At the end, I simply ask YOU to be the judge as to what really happened.

We exchanged pleasantries, then the following conversation ensued:

Triks: You know I’ve been thinking of inviting you to an event for some time now, but it’s always skipped my mind. We have a business meeting male members of our church normally hold on Saturdays that I really want you to attend. You know we all need to network to take our businesses to the next level.

Me: You’re right about that. Where’s your meeting taking place?

Triks: Oh, it’s at the popular Ikeja guest house over on Allen Avenue. I’m sure you’ll know it.

Me: Yes, I do know it. (Then sensing the details were incomplete, I asked) Are you sure it’s just a business meeting? Or is it one of these Business Men’s Fellowship things that many church organisations out here often hold?

Triks: Well ( that was actually more like "weeellllll") yes it’s a Business Men’s Fellowship, but actually we meet for mostly business – very little religious stuff happens. It’s not a service or any kind.

Me: Are you sure about that?

Triks: Of course. You just come and you’ll see what I mean

Me: Okay. What time does it start?

Triks: It starts at 2pm prompt. We are very strict on time. And it ends 3 hours later, by 5pm

Me: Alright then, no problem. I’ll be there. (I switch my daughter who I’m carrying, to my left arm, so I can shake his hand with my right. Then I start to leave).

Triks: Just a moment. Let me give you an invitation card. He fills my name, email address and phone number on to a bottom section that he tears off for himself. Then he hands me the upper part which has the venue address, and date/time printed on it.

Business Men’s Meeting Becomes Business Men’s Religious Service

The event day arrives, and as is my usual habit, I pick on one of my sons to go out with me, just to see what my world is like. This time, it’s my second son, E. We arrive at the guest house venue at 2.05pm.

Right at the double doors, a well dressed young man is seated behind a desk. He smiles warmly at us and pushes a form across the table for me to fill. After that he hands my son a gift pen, and offers me one as well. I politely assure him the one for my son will do for us both.

We are ushered into the meeting room, which has seats that I quickly estimate would take about 30 to 40 persons. As we take our seats close to the front of the room, I note the time is 2.15 p.m.

A casual look around the room indicates that Triks, who invited me, is yet to arrive. But I soon realize there’s something to while away the time with, as a young pretty lady with an amazingly powerful voice begins singing song after song (church type), accompanied by a pianist/vocal support chap.

Time flies by quickly – thanks to the excellent singing by the duo mentioned above. When check again, it’s 3.05p.m!

I decide it may be time to leave, because no serious business meeting could be that delayed without any formal announcement. All I had seen from our arrival was some strange obsession by most of the few people present (including some officers) to take photos of us as we registered, and then as we sat down. Not just of us – but we got a decent share. And that had me wondering for a bit…

So, I whisper for E to follow me, as I get up and walk briskly towards the door. Out of the corner of my right eye, I see a figure quickly approach, and tap me on the shoulder. It’s Triks.

Me: Oh, so you’re here at last.

Triks: Yes, I’m sorry I came late. Something came up last minute. We’ve not started the meeting because we’re actually waiting for the pastor…

(As he spoke, I could not help wondering what the pastor’s absence had to do with starting a supposed "business meeting" organized for members of his church. And then again there was the issue of a total disregard for time keeping by either him or the meeting planners or both. We were over 1 hour behind schedule – judging from the start time printed on the card I was given and NOT ONE WORD had been said about it!).

Me: You told me the meeting would start at 2 pm, and now it’s after 3 pm and nothing.

Triks: Well actually, we start at 3 pm. We only print the 2pm on the card to provide time for the musical interlude etc, and allow people to get here.

(Even as he said this, the seats were far from half filled, and members were still trickling in. If anyone was concerned about keeping to time, they certainly were not showing it! "What manner of business men are these exactly?" I asked myself)

Me: Look, I came because I gave you my word, and did not want to break a promise. But I’ve actually had a long day, and really need to get back home for some rest. Your meeting looks like it’s running late, and I don’t think I can wait anymore.

Triks: No, no, no! Please wait. I’m sure we’ll start soon. Sorry about the delay.

Me: Okay, let’s wait another 30 minutes. (By this time it’s already 3.30pm – 1.5 hours lost!)

As I return to my seat with my son, I notice heads turned in our direction, with people nodding politely at us in greeting. I respond accordingly, and we finally get seated again.

Thankfully, a flurry of activities commences, ending with a plump looking middle aged man stepping up in front of the room. The first confirmation of my suspicion that the event may not be what I think it is comes when he raises a massive looking Bible in his hands and shouts "Men, praise the Lord!"

Ten minutes later, I’m wondering to myself "Where did the business meeting go?" – because I discover I’m in the middle of some kind of fellowship pre-Sunday sermon delivery. In fact the closest thing to business I noticed anyone had with them were Ipads – but even those featured electronic bibles and not business related stuff.

It’s Time To Leave

Turning to E, I ask "Does this look to you like a business meeting?"

He replies "No."

"Let’s go", I tell him, and we once again head for the door. Not surprisingly, Triks is seated right at the exit (or for my purposes, "the escape"…lol!).

Triks: Oh, you’re leaving. Well I know you’re tired as you’ve said. So you need to take a rest. Thanks for coming in all the same.

Me: Yes, I really do need to get that rest. But the main reason I have to leave is that you told me this was to be a business meeting, Triks. What I see happening is a sermon or fellowship of some sort!

Triks: Yes. Actually we always start with this kind of quick service and then towards the tail end there is a short session on business.

Me: Oh, really. Well I guess I’m going to have to miss that then. Maybe another time.

We smile, shake hands and separate.

Trickery Kills Trust!

Now, like I promised at the start of this piece, let me ask: what is YOUR impression of what happened? Do you think that Triks was sincere, candid, direct, open and honest in the way he got me to attend his event?

Did he give me an accurate picture of what the event was about? Or was he economical with some aspects of the truth, possibly to make me more willing to attend?

Whatever conclusions you draw, my main reason for sharing this story is to encourage the reader to act with honesty and integrity at all times.

This becomes even more important when you are a speaker marketing to prospective or potential clients.

Marketing and sales go together. You can have multiple products or services. But you need to focus on delivering the specific ones a potential buyer expresses interest in AFTER you’ve shown him ALL you have to offer for instance.

To me, that implies that if someone phones me for 2GB flash drives, and I only have 1 GB flash drives in my computer store available at that time, I should tell him THAT. And not tell him I have 2 GB flash drives that he needs, then when he arrives try to pressure him to buy them saying "It’s the same thing. You only need to use two instead of one to get 2GB capacity you need."

Why not let the intending buyer decide that? Why not tell him/her the truth so s/he can decide whether or not to buy what you have, or move on.

Why risk having someone resent you for using "trickery" or deception to waste his/her time???

As A Speaker, Deliver What You Promise

Which brings me to my message for this week. Let me ask you this question:When you market your products and services as a speaker, what do you PROMISE to deliver? And how does that compare to what you eventually deliver?

If you are profess to being a change management speaker, how much of your content/material delivers satisfactory change management education EXPECTED by your client’s audience. Do they leave your events wondering where all those promises went? Or do they emerge raving about how you exceeded their expectations?

I have attended an event where a speaker spent over 80% of the time quoting bible passages, instead of sharing quality experiences/insights about SPECIFIC steps he took to achieve success as an entrepreneur. And yet, the latter was what the event topic promised. Personally, I left that event feeling disappointed!

Here’s A Real Life Example Of How Not Meeting Expectations Can Cost You:

I will never forget how a former expatriate boss of mine told me to suspend a particular external training service provider. He had examined handouts the consultant gave out to the brewery engineering tradesmen on maintenance of pipes used for beer transfer, and he discovered the manual bore the name of the oil company it was originally prepared for!

Get this: Pipes used to transfer crude oil are COMPLETELY different from those used for beer (consumable beverages!) transfer.

For a consultant to promise to provide training for maintenance operatives in a food processing company, and then turn around to use training materials from a crude oil processing outfit was unpardonable. Ethically, and in any other sense. And it was a breach of trust that could not be over looked.

In an environment where merit and quality performance are valued, using trickery to market yourself will only hurt you in the long run. You will look bad, lose face, lose people’s trust – and ultimately lose relevance.

So, even when others seem to be getting away with it, don’t do it. You’ll build a rock-solid reputation of integrity that WILL eventually lead to multiple rewards later on, from those who appreciate it.

Final Words: The Need To Keep An Open Mind On Religion

Just in case anyone’s taken offence (though I doubt it), please sheath your swords. This is NOT an anti-religion piece. I simply use it to offer clarity of thought to those who may need it.

All who know me, and who read my writing, will likely know I am NOT religious. I do not attend church, mosque or any religious meetings in order to worship the creator. But despite that, I keep an open mind. I honour invitations when I can. But not to have myself "sold" on what to believe.

For decades since my third year in the university, when I stopped attending church (more on that in a future write-up), I have found keeping an open mind this way to be beneficial in many ways.

You learn so much more because you are not blinded by some baseless need to promote (or defend) your religion as being better or preferable to others. I mean, does God really need anyone to defend (or fight for) him. Really?? I doubt it.

A few years back, I attended an interesting anniversary programme organized by the Rosicrucian church (AMORC), at the Airport Hotel in Lagos. I was invited by a friend – AK – who had returned from the US with his Austrian wife. They had both told me about their interest in meditation, and other related spiritual stuff.

When AK discovered I was not a church-goer he began to refer to me as a "Seeker". And he would get books of all kinds on spirituality, astrology etc, for me to read and "discover truths". I did read them, but nothing I read swayed me enough to "join" their group in order to feel closer to the creator. I had established my own way of doing that many years ago, and only sought to improve on that method.

Proof of this is reflected in the confidence with which I readily entertain others who choose to engage me based on their beliefs. I never feel threatened or fear that they will "convince" me to go against my beliefs.

The only way that can happen to anyone is if you do NOT know or are not really convinced of what you believe. Once you have conviction, nothing that comes your way can shake you. You will handle ALL with ease.

Sometimes we’ll agree. Other times we won’t. In the latter case, we would simply agree to disagree

Leaders like the Dalai Lama understand the need to maintain this kind of mind set. It’s therefore no surprise that they enjoy the respect, and followership, of millions of people worldwide who individually nurture wide ranging religious beliefs and preferences.

I refuse to accept that the creator needs a particular religious sales and marketing campaign to sell him to others. God is NOT for sale. And God does not practice or advocate a religion. All human beings are equal and the same before the creator. Your actions or inactions are not measured based on the religion group you belong.

This is an entirely spiritual process – not subject to human biases. It all happens between each human spirit and the creator’s. More people need to understand that THAT is why they must find their own way to connect with their maker.

Going around trying to trick others to join your movement will only make those who are well grounded in their own beliefs stop trusting you.

Let me end by paraphrasing the late Gani Fawehinmi based on what he once said about a certain contemporary leader:

Certain people have such a bad reputation for being deceptive, that when they say ‘Good Morning’ to you, it’s wiser to look out the window and check FIRST that it is really morning, BEFORE you respond to their greeting!

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a)taking up Burt Dubin’s $177 monthly speaker mentoring or (b) buying his products ?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Budget Delight [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Top Shelf [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

All three will get you to your desired destination of "speaking success-ville" – so long as you meet the requirements/play your part well (your fare, abide by the set guidelines etc). During the "flight", the seat you have will determine how much personal service attention and preference the provider will accord you. It’s that simple

So, make your choice: 1. Budget Delight [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Top Shelf [Click here]

Have a lovely week!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

Platinum Quality Author at the Ezine Articles Directory:

http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Tayo_Solagbade

Self-Development/Performance Enhancement Specialist – Tayo Solagbade– works as a Multipreneur, helping individuals/businesses develop and implement strategies to achieve their goals, faster and more profitably.

Visit Tayo’s Self-Development Nuggets™ blog to find out how you can get your FREE copy of his new Practical Guide to Important Feed Ingredients (with high resolution pictures, prices, nutrients, uses etc). When he’s not amazing clients with his superhuman skills (wink), Tayo works as the creative force behind his Cost-Saving Farm Business Ideas website, and the Public Speaking IDEAS newsletter (which he publishes to promote Burt Dubin’s Public Speaking Mentoring service to experts working across the African continent).

Depending on his availability, Tayo accepts invitations to deliver customisable talks and keynote speeches on topics relating to his areas of experience based expertise and interest. Visit http://www.tksola.com to learn how you can invite Tayo, to speak at your next meeting/event.

For over 25 years, Burt Dubin has provided a variety of speaker mentoring products and services to clients worldwide. The following links lead to pages describing products and services that can help you attain professional mastery as an expert-who-speaks (from the comfort of your home):

Presentation Skills
Tools for Extraordinary
Speaking Business Success

Burt’s Flagship Album

This is the product to own if you can own only one. Why? Because in it you discover principles of platform mastership available to you nowhere else at any price.

With its Money back if not delighted Guarantee hardly any are returned.
Find out why

Presentation Magic

A live example, including a complete audio recording of a program Burt created from scratch–on a topic he knew nothing about and never, ever presented before! See how you, guided by your personal Learning Guide, (Presentation Magic), can do this too and thrill audiences as often as you want.

Presentation Magic Manual with new pages added plus 3 audio CDs.
more information

How To Create a Great Program Manual

Discover how you can produce a precious memento of you and your program. Capture over 44 model pages you can easily adapt for your use. Engage proven principles that add value to the experience of sitting at your feet and learning from you.

This is a reprise of the historic presentation that launched the Speaking Success System.

No copy of this 2 CD program and 50 page Learning Guide has ever been returned.

more information

Print or PDF Report and Manuals

177 Wow! Wow!
Showmanship Stratagems

Discover these secrets of making your programs more interesting and valuable to your clients and audiences now.

more information

Monthly Speaker Mentoring Service

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a )taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products ?
You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Budget Delight [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Top Shelf [Click here]

Burt’s three mentoring packages can be likened to the seating options offered by airlines: Budget Delight (Economy); Mid Range (Business); and Top Shelf (First Class).

At least that’s how I like to think of them!

So, make your choice: 1. Budget Delight [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Top Shelf [Click here]

If you need help purchasing ANY of Burt’s products and services, call me on 234-803-302-1263 or email tayo at tksola dot com with details of the assistance you require.

Public Speaking

When to Walk Away…

September 24, 2012 Tayo Solagbade Leave a comment

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Publication: Tayo Solagbade’s Weekly Public Speaking IDEAS Page (PSIP) Newsletter

Date: Monday 24th September 2012

No: 56

Title: When to Walk Away…

Author & Publisher: Tayo K. Solagbade [234-803-302-1263]

Blog URL: http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com/blog

Archive (For E-mail only version started 14th May 2012): Click here to view

Archive (For Blog version started 24th September 2011): Click here

Hi,

Please find below the latest issue of my weekly Public Speaking Ideas page for 2012.

=====

No. 56: When to Walk Away…

Not every prospect or client that comes along with an offer will be a good fit for you. Knowing when to walk away is therefore a valuable skill.

If you accept work from everyone who makes an offer, there’s a good chance you’ll hurt your business eventually.

Many business owners make this mistake at least once. And it can be quite hard to get over. Sometimes they make the mistake because they need the business. Or because they got carried away by a wave of success and let their defenses drop.

So, they fail to notice the obvious warning signs that appear during their discussions with a prospect or client.

This can lead to a humiliating experience for them. For instance, they could end up negotiating in a needy manner…allowing the client dictate what to pay, how to pay and when to pay (to paraphrase Jason Leister) – and even how the work is to be done.

I’ve made these mistakes many times in the past. I sometimes did so because I wanted to “help” the clients. Unfortunately, some clients interprete such willingness to imply you’re desperate for work. And they naturally seek to make the most of the opportunity.

If you give in, you only set yourself up for a figurative uppercut from greedy clients. Not a smart way to do business. Such clients ONLY care about themselves. They will say – and do – anything to get what they want. And that includes telling bare faced lies.

Here are three warning signals to watch out for:

1. Carrot Dangling: An elderly prospect once said to me…

“Look, the board hasn’t released the main funds yet. So, we’re not exactly buoyant right now. If you speak for a low price now, there’s a big conference we’re planning to do in a few weeks. We’ll simply award it to you. Let’s just get to know each other with this one by using it as a run up to the main job you’ll be doing for us.”

I’ve heard this line from CEOs of hotels, the training manager of a government agency and even church leaders. Not one came through with the promised follow up work!

With those lessons in my experience bag, I now give the following polite response to others who try using the same line on me:

“That’s okay. Let’s just do what you can afford to pay for now. When your funds are released, we can always continue from where we stopped. I personally prefer working on the bird in hand.”

And like I’ve written elsewhere, I always do it with a big smile on my face. Some still take offense though, telling me I’m too rigid. Hmm…I hear you!

2. Reluctance to Talk Money: Sometimes you’ll meet a prospect or client who talks all about the work s/he wants done, and asks a battery of questions to confirm you are competent.

But s/he never asks what your fees are, or how much it will cost to deliver your talk program. When this happens, watch out!

Such persons usually come unprepared to offer worthwhile remuneration. And when you do bring it up, they’re likely to favour haggling as opposed to negotiating. Most times, such exchanges will leave you with a bad taste in your mouth.

If you notice the above warning signal, prepare to walk away. The client and his/her offer may not be a good fit for you.

3. Tag Teaming: Some prospects/clients may try to put you in direct competition with another provider, who more often than not WILL be in on the game they’re playing. They create the impression that someone else is ready to do the job for next to nothing. This is so as to force you to accept a much lower fee that you normally would.

Here’s a real-life example of how you can handle an attempt to treat you this way:

We were discussing details of the final aspect of a project he wanted to assign to me, which I was to give him a quote for.

“But Tayo, the other guy who does my programming can also do this, and I’m sure he’ll do it for next to nothing.” said the client.

Then he went out to the outer office, brought back the other guy, and went through the motions of explaining what the issue was, to him.

The “programmer” (not surprisingly) said “Of course I can do it. In fact, the method I’ll use will produce equally good, if not better reports”.

The client (now literally drooling at the thought that I’d cave in) said:

“That’s what I was just saying. The only difference is that Tayo’s method is a bit faster. Otherwise, your method can deliver the same output that his does. In fact I’m thinking maybe Tayo should hold on and let me try your way first.”

As I watched them, I knew it was time to walk away. I’d seen a “Tag team act” before. And I disliked the exploitative intention.

So, I said “I have a better idea. Why not simply use his solution? There’s no point killing a fly with a hammer. Once his solution already meets your needs, why pay to get mine?”

Both men looked up at me in surprise. I pretended not to notice. “No, no. You don’t understand. I think I’ll still need to come back to you” the client blurted out.

I countered by saying: “But why? From what your man here has said, he has a solution that will work just like you want. To be honest, I’m a bit relieved and also happy for you. At least you won’t have to spend too much to get what you want.”

I threw in a few jokes for effect, as we debated the matter. But I gently pressured them to accept my proposal. Their smiles were noticeably strained as I shook hands with them and departed. But I was done. I wasn’t going to let anyone keep me dangling on a string.

However, it did not end there.

Three weeks later, the client called. By some strange coincidence, I was right across the road from his office at the time. So, when he asked if I could pop in, I agreed.

I arrived to learn they had some issues manipulating Excel database records using the other guy’s method. He needed to query the database to isolate unique records. “What’s the problem?” I asked. He said “When I do it, I keep getting duplicates in my results.”

I replied “Well I initially had a similar challenge, and found a way around it. Just specify additional criteria from the database fields to enable you eliminate the duplicates. Unfortunately, I don’t know your method. But you understand what I mean, right?”

He nodded and smiled uncomfortably, mumbling something about the data provided by the client not being “clean”. I pointed out that I’d had to contend with that same challenge. “Do what I did – help him clean it where possible!” I said with a smile.

At this point I thought: “I don’t want to be pulled any further into this. The sooner I get out of here, the better.” So, I politely excused myself and left (with the client saying “Ah, you’re always in a hurry. Anyway, I’m still going to call you etc”).

Conclusion

Once again I had known when to walk away – with my dignity intact. I’d shown my willingness to clarify issues relating to the work I’d already done. But as soon as I’d established that the problem they were having had nothing to do with me, I knew it was time to leave. If the client wished to bring me in, we would have to discuss that.

Not knowing when to walk away can set you up to be exploited. You’ll come away feeling used and dumped. And you’d have no one to blame but yourself. I know what it feels like to be on the receiving end. And I’ve learnt to protect myself. You should too.

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s $177 monthy speaker mentoring here, or (b) buying his products here?

Send me an e-mail with your questions via tayo@tksola.com. In the meantime, why not get started by subscribing here to get his 7-Part Course (How To Succeed And Get Paid As A Professional Speaker) . . . and receive his monthly newsletter (Speaking Biz Strategies Letter) at no cost.

Have a lovely week!

Tayo K. Solagbade*

Self-Development/Performance Improvement Specialist

*Sole Agent For Burt Dubin’s Speaker Mentoring Service In Africa

Mobile: 234-803-302-1263

http://www.spontaneousdevelopment.com

Platinum Quality Author at the Ezine Articles Directory:

http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Tayo_Solagbade

Visit Tayo’s Self-Development Nuggets™ blog to find out how you can get your FREE copy of his new Practical Guide to Important Feed Ingredients (with high resolution pictures, prices, nutrients, uses etc). When he’s not amazing clients with his superhuman skills (wink), Tayo works as the creative force behind his Cost-Saving Farm Business Ideas website, and the Public Speaking IDEAS newsletter (which he publishes to promote Burt Dubin’s Public Speaking Mentoring service to experts working across the African continent).

==================

Presentation Skills

Tools for Extraordinary

Speaking Business Success

Burt’s Flagship Album

This is the product to own if you can own only one. Why? Because in it you discover principles of platform mastership available to you nowhere else at any price.

With its Money back if not delighted Guarantee hardly any are returned.

Find out why

Presentation Magic

Presentation Magic Manual with new pages added plus 3 audio CDs.

more information

How To Create a Great Program Manual

This is a reprise of the historic presentation that launched the Speaking Success System.

No copy of this 2 CD program and 50 page Learning Guide has ever been returned.

more information

Print or PDF Report and Manuals

177 Wow! Wow!

Showmanship Stratagems

Discover these secrets of making your programs more interesting and valuable to your clients and audiences now.

more information

Monthly Speaker Mentoring Service

You may also wish to explore Burt’s offer of access to his mentoring at a specially discounted rate, over an 18 month period.

http://www.burtdubin.com/tools/177monthly.html

If you need help purchasing ANY of Burt’s products and services, call me on 234-803-302-1263 or email tayo at tksola dot com with details of the assistance you require.

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No. 71: Get People Talking About YOU!

First, Be Clear About Your Target Audience & Purpose

Next, Think and Act Differently From Others

Example: Richard Branson & His Virgin Group Of Companies

Tools You Can Use To Get Yourself Noticed & Talked About

It’s NOT About How Much Money You Have!

Final Words: How This Strategy Got People Talking About My Farm Business Support Service

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

Comments?

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What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

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Get The NEW Excel-VB Ration Formulator!

No. 70: Manage Your Relationships Smarter, To Succeed Better!

You May Have What It Takes To Succeed – But Your Relationships Can Hold You Back

I Was Ridiculed For Thinking I Could Sell My Excel Software – BEFORE I Started Doing It!

Who Do YOU Spend Your Quality Time With?

Final Words

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

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What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

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1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

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Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

No. 69: You Will Be Sorely Tested

Stories In Religious Books About Trials & Suffering Can Be Therapeutic

Similar Stories About Today’s People Are Also Helpful

Many Great People Were First “Sorely Tested”. To Become Great You Most Likely Will Too!

Four Quotes To Inspire You To Grow – By Embracing Adversity – In 2013!

1. James R. Cook, author of “The Startup Entrepreneur” wrote as follows:

2. Here’s what the late Jim Rohn (another great man) said :

3. The great Emerson also offers useful insight into the inherent benefits of adversity:

4. And Burt Dubin (2 decade veteran mentor of paid international speakers) provides a fitting end to this Xmas edition of my speaking IDEAS newsletter message, with these words that have inspired me since 2001, when I first read them:

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

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What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

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1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

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Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

No. 68: What If You Need To “Do It Yourself”(DIY)?

How Much You Need To DIY, Depends On Your Part of the World

That Doesn’t Happen In Your Country? Great! But What If One Day, It Does?

Anything can happen. Don’t Be A Fish Out Of Water When It Does!

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

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What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

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1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

A Senior Colleague Warns Me To Stay Away From Her…!

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No. 67: You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 2 of 2

A Senior Colleague Warns Me To Stay Away From Her…!

A Valuable Life Lesson

How Can This Help YOU As A Speaker?

No One Wants To Buy The Box. They Want What’s INSIDE The Box!

To Improve The Quality Of What You Have “INSIDE” Your Box: Get A Competent Coach!

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

Have you been undecided about whether or not to become a paid speaker? Or have you been trying to get your speaking career off the ground with little success?

Comments?

Share this issue!

What fears or doubts are keeping you from (a) taking up Burt Dubin’s monthly speaker mentoring, or (b) buying his products?

You can choose to purchase Burt’s mentoring at any of the three (3) levels listed below:

1. Top Shelf [Click here] | 2. Mid Range [Click here] | 3. Budget Delight [Click here]

SCROLL DOWN TO READ THE FULL ISSUE

No. 66: You Already Have ALL You Need – Part 1 of 2

A Workaholic 25 Year Old…

One Day, I Felt Something VERY Different, And Rather Pleasant…

“Stop it!” I told myself. “How Can You Let A Girl Get To You Like This?”

But Fate Apparently Had Other Plans…

Thinking To Myself I Said…

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