It dawned on me a few weeks ago that I've accidently been getting speakers at the events I attend to promote me for free! I've been using this approach for years without even being aware of what I was doing.

This is actually a very simple tip that anyone can use, and it actually helps the speaker. As a speaker myself I love it when people do this for me...

It's simple really. At your next event find out who the speaker is and what they're going to be talking about. Then show up early, and look for the speaker. Wait until they look like they're comfortable, don't rush up to them when they're still trying to figure out AV issues or coordinating with the host. Now just introduce yourself. Your goal here is to make the speaker feel welcome and comfortable. At some point in this short conversation try and share a brief personal story with the speaker that relates to their topic.

Most good speakers will mention you during their speech, and work your story into their presentation. This helps the speaker because it allows them to make a more personal connection with an audience they may otherwise not know. They know that other folks in the audience probably know you, and by sharing your story it builds credibility for them and promotes you! Don't you just love win/win networking tips?

Please make sure you don't abuse this approach. Be sure any story you share is true, and relevant. You'll also want to use this with speakers and topics you're generally interested in. Don't expect the speaker to plug you. They might just talk about your story and not mention you at all. Just know that you were able to help the speaker feel more at ease, and make a better connection with the audience.

Give it a try at your next event. You don't have anything to lose, and at the very least will have a new way to connect with speakers that may otherwise seem intimidating.

Happy networking!

Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com