The number one way to get more bookings is to turn each performance into more performances.
The post-performance debrief is a useful strategy for accomplishing this.
When you schedule your performance, also schedule a meeting or call during the following week with the person who hired you to speak.
Ask them to share their impressions.
It felt like my talk was well-received. What feedback did you get?
Do you offer consulting or training programs?
I shared a lot of ideas and strategies. Is there anything I can do to assist with implementation?
Can you find more speaking opportunities in the same organization?
Are there other divisions or sister organizations who would benefit from my program? Would you be willing to offer an insider introduction?
And if you're a keynoter, they probably won't ask you to speak two years in a row. Try this one:
It may be early to talk about next year's event, but I'd be happy to introduce you to rock star speakers when you decide on your themes and topics.
Why not put yourself in the position to recommend a colleague… Who knows? They might return the favor.
And though this is unlikely, let's say your presentation wasn't the smashing success you hoped it would be.
What if your show was a bomb?
Wouldn't it benefit you to hear about what the disconnect was? Nobody enjoys hearing negative feedback but we can learn a lot from it.
And since you got paid and disappointed your client, you might offer a makeup program or make some gesture to salvage the relationship.
If nothing else, the post-performance debrief shows your clients that you're listening and that you care.
One-done-and-run is no basis for a meaningful relationship. Schedule that post-performance debrief meeting, stay in touch, be helpful and professional, and find more opportunities.
