Sheila’s Thoughts on Finding Speakers

A question I’ve often been asked is where do you find speakers for women’s meetings, retreats and conferences when you need them? You’re all excited. You’ve been asked to be program chairman for your women’s ministry’s next meeting, retreat or conference. You’re full of ideas you’ve been aching to use, but, wait, what about speakers?

First, look around you. Are there women you know who might be interested in preparing a workshop or giving a testimony? Find out if some have prepared seminars in their workplace that might be helpful.

Look for other freebies. Your local fire and police departments are usually happy to send someone to speak on home and personal safety. Some financial counselors provide speakers, literature and even food free of charge. (Be prepared for some kind of sales pitch afterward.)

Check with other women’s groups in your area. Find out what speakers they have used. Perhaps someone in their church is an experienced speaker or there’s a local college professor they can recommend. (Even if these speakers don’t charge for their services, cover all their expenses and consider giving them an honorarium.)

If you’re thinking you want a well-known speaker, consider your budget and plan way ahead. She can be booked for a year to two or three in advance and her fees may be beyond you. But, it doesn’t hurt to check. She might have had a cancellation. Also, some speakers charge according to audience size and your ability to pay (within reason).For more information, contact CLASS Speakers Services. They represent more than 100 speakers from all over the country. Telephone: 619-471-1722. Fax: 619-471-8896. E-mail: ChrstSpkrs@aol.com