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When the Speaker Cancels: Be the One Who’s Ready!

Speaker


When the Speaker Cancels_ Be the One Who’s Ready!

Speakers should: “Always Have a Talk in Their Pocket”


If you speak long enough, it will happen.

A speaker cancels. The schedule changes. And suddenly someone asks, “Can you fill in?”  Last-minute speaking opportunities can feel stressful—but they can also be powerful if you’re ready.


Preparation starts before the "Speaking Opportunity" is presented.

When you arrive at an event—especially one with multiple speakers—introduce yourself to the host. Let them know that if someone cancels at the last minute, you have a topic ready to go. Make sure it’s a topic with broad appeal, something that fits a wide audience and can add value no matter who’s in the room.

And here’s a practical tip that matters: Carry it with you. Have that presentation on a thumb drive in your pocket. Not on your laptop back in the hotel room. Not in the cloud and not in an email you’ll have to hunt for. In your pocket and ready to plug into a computer.

Keep the structure simple. A strong opening, two or three clear points, and a memorable close. Great images on your slides will help you remember stories connected to those points. You may even be able to tell a story relevant to your audience. Share something you’ve lived, learned, or observed that supports your message.

Also, know your opening and closing cold. Thanks to the Law of Primacy and Recency, those are the moments people remember most. If you nail the beginning and the end, you’ll leave a strong impression—even if everything in between isn’t perfect.

Definitely say, "YES!" Let people know you’re willing and ready. Last-minute opportunities build confidence, credibility, and visibility.

The bottom line. Great speakers don’t wait for perfect conditions. They prepare to be ready—just in case, and they do it with - No Sweat! ——————————————————————————————————————————————————

Speaker

About the Author    

Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!”


Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, andPresentation Skills.


They do this because they know:"Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities."


They also know:We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts.

He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT!


Services:

  1. Keynote Speaker

  2. Workshop Facilitator

  3. Breakout Sessions

  4. Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching

  1. Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT!

  2. Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT!

  3. Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities.

  4. We are All Self-Employed!


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If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com.


Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated!



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