Then There Was The Time I Was Tricked Into A Speaking Program…

THEN THERE WAS THE TIME I WAS TRICKED INTO A SPEAKING PROGRAM…

it breaks my heart to hear about aspiring speakers who enroll in this unnamed but popular program.

About five years ago, when I was launching my speaking business, I knew I needed more than just the ability to craft a great speech. I was clueless about the business side of speaking. The big question was: How do I actually get paid to speak?

🔍 After some research, I found a program that seemed like a dream come true. They literally guaranteed that I’d get booked and paid for speaking gigs.

📞 The enrollment process was slick. I had to set up a call and submit an application. The woman on the other end couldn’t contain her excitement about me qualifying for their advanced program. Talk about an ego boost!

📜 They promised me a bunch of goodies:

• Over 100 qualified leads in my area
• A full speaker reel
• 1:1 coaching
• Access to their online courses

But here’s the reality check:

• The “qualified leads” were just a list of organizations that had once held events, none of which had a budget for speakers.
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• he speaker reel was embarrassingly bad.
• The 1:1 coaching was lackluster; the coaches seemed disinterested and couldn’t answer my questions.
• I followed their online courses to a T, and yet…

😟 When I consulted another mentor, his concerned expression said it all. He told me that not only were these strategies ineffective, but they were also damaging my professional reputation.

💸 The program cost me a fortune, but even more valuable was the time I lost. I had to backtrack and undo the damage—annoying emails, fake marketing strategies, and other bad habits I’d picked up.

🤔 Here’s the kicker: The strategies weren’t inherently bad. They worked—for the program’s creator and for some people. But that’s the problem. The program was built on the creator’s personal experience, not universal expertise.

🎤 Credibility isn’t about pushing your own path to success onto others. And eventually, those who lack true credibility get exposed for what they are. So, aspiring speakers, be cautious where you invest your time and money. Your path to success might not look like anyone else’s, and that’s perfectly okay.

Credibility is the cornerstone of any successful career, especially in the speaking industry. When seeking guidance or mentorship, look for those who have built their credibility through genuine expertise, proven results, and a track record of helping others succeed. And as you navigate your own path, remember that building your credibility is a long-term investment. It’s not just about immediate gains; it’s about establishing a reputation that will stand the test of time. Choose wisely, because your credibility is one of the most valuable assets you’ll ever have.