Great speakers don't just get discovered; they get recommended. And when it comes to speaker bureaus, being listed is one thing, but becoming the speaker they confidently pitch to clients is something entirely different. INC magazine's "Pitch Whisperer," John Livesay, sits down with Rob to reveal what separates speakers who consistently get bureau referrals from those who quietly disappear into the catalog. From positioning and storytelling to building genuine bureau relationships, John shares practical strategies that make it easier for bureaus to remember you, recommend you, and ultimately get you booked.
In this episode of The Presentation Whisperer Show, you'll learn:
• How John became known as "The Pitch Whisperer" and the common mistake he saw speakers making.
• What speakers need to understand before pursuing relationships with speaker bureaus.
• How to create genuine value for a bureau instead of simply asking for speaking opportunities.
• What makes a bureau feel confident recommending and pitching a speaker to clients.
• What strong positioning looks like and why it helps speakers stand out in a crowded marketplace.
• Why some speakers have compelling stories but are still difficult for bureaus to describe and sell.
• What John means by being "stuck in the friend zone at work" and how speakers can avoid it.
• The most common reasons speakers get listed by bureaus but rarely get booked.
• Practical ways to make it dramatically easier for bureaus to pitch you during client conversations.
• The very first step speakers should take this week to begin building stronger bureau relationships.
To learn more about this guest:
Instagram @thepitchwhisperer