Don’t chase Trending Topics, anticipate them.
Many speakers fall into the trend-chasing trap. They see a hot topic and scramble to position themselves as experts. But by the time a trend is obvious, it's often too late. The market is saturated, and you're just another voice in the crowd. You’ve seen it happen, everyone at one point had a speech on resilience, or diversity, now everyone is jumping on the AI trend. Rather than chasing trends, chase problems.
Instead of chasing trends, focus on being a problem solver for your clients. Because problem solvers are always on trend. Even in the worst market conditions - like an economic crisis or global pandemic - problem solvers get work while others struggle. And let’s face it there are always problems that need solving.
Whatever the trending topics are, if you're solving real problems for your clients, you're always relevant and therefore bookable. You don't have to worry about chasing the next big thing because you're focused on what really matters - helping your clients succeed.
Now, you might be asking, "But Maria, how do I find out what problems my clients are facing?" let me get you started:
- Ask Direct Questions. Don't be afraid to reach out to existing clients and ask them what is going on in their industry, in their organisation, in their work.
- Listen. When talking to clients or prospects, pay attention to the issues they mention, and the language they use. Often, the real problems are hidden in casual conversation.
- Stay Informed. Keep up with industry news, reports, and trends. This can give you insight into the challenges your clients might be facing.
- Use Surveys. Use online tools to create surveys for your client base. It’s so easy to do these days and they can give you valuable data about client needs.
- Attend Industry Events. Conferences and networking events are goldmines for understanding industry-wide challenges and for picking up opportunities.
- Social Media. Follow your clients and their industries on social platforms. People often share their frustrations and challenges online.
- Use Your Own Data. Look at the questions you're frequently asked during Q&A sessions or in follow-up emails. These are also useful to help you create newsletters like this one. Where do you think I get my ideas from? 😉
By doing the above, you're not just solving current issues - you're anticipating future needs and positioning yourself as an indispensable resource.
So in summary:
- Don't chase trends – anticipate them. By the time you catch up, it's too late
- Position yourself as a problem solver, not just a speaker
- Focus on understanding your clients' challenges
- Stay ahead by consistently solving problems, not by following trends
- Keep up to date through various channels
By focusing on solving problems, you position yourself with the top speakers who consistently get booked and paid.
Solve problems, create value, anticipate trends.
PS Need some help to be more bookable and charge higher fees?.
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