ZZ Top said it best: "I'm bad...I'm nation-wide." And it's true; speaking at national associations has a certain cache and can give you access to the movers and shakers of a particular industry. Getting to the podium, though, can be quite a trip. When it comes to selecting speakers, associations use two processes. The key is to participate in both processes simultaneously. The following is an insider's view of the system and tips to get on the fast track.

The Call For Presentations

First is the published process, known as the call for presentations. This process is mainly used for concurrent speakers but keynoters can post too. The notice is distributed to the association's membership and publicized in industry media. Many association websites announce the call with a downloadable form.

I was a volunteer program chair for a national association for four years, the point person for both keynote and concurrent session slots. Due to a small staff, I was the first person to get the proposals.

Members-Only Premium Content   

• Free Webinars: Access all recorded webinars (full members attend all live webinars free).
• Free Tools and Guides: Receive all how-to guides and tools sold in the RainToday Store free.
• Research and Reports: Receive 20% off all research and benchmark reports.
• 1,000+ Articles: Access over 1,000 professional services marketing, sales, and leadership articles.
• Exclusive Premium Content: Access members-only interviews, templates, and case studies.