When I first started exploring keynote speaking opportunities, I thought I hit the gold mine.
I could run my mouth for 45 minutes to an hour and get paid.
An excuse to buy cute outfits and keep my look “on fleek.”
Plus free travel…need I say more?
And as far as I could tell, I didn’t have to…
Write any business documents.
Attend meetings.
Or be generally accountable for anything.
Perfect! Mic check, please.
This is NOT what happened!
It is work! So much work!
And on an entirely different level…
Keynote takes little bits of you…and gives it away.
Most gigs are totally greenfield.
Will there be two people or 2000?
You do actually have to write a document…it is called a presentation and speaking notes.
And YOU, you have to DELIVER the keynote.
Your energy, vibe, and attitude are all on display.
Bad hair day, suck it up! – Bangkok does not forgive curls!
Jet lagged so bad you are cross-eyed. Show goes on.
Lost presentations, lousy audio, too close to cocktail hour…Smile.
After each presentation, 2 or 2000, I am wrung out.
I left it all at the podium.
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