What do you do if your connections in the public speaking industry need nurturing?

I've been fortunate that I have a podcast as a platform. It's a way I can further connect or engage with professionals that I'd like to know. Doing so allows me to provide a local/regional/international platform to show their awesome work. At the same time I can do a deep dive in understanding their practice or unique services. You may not have a podcast. But you could write an article/blog about their skill set that your practice doesn't provide. Or give them a shout out on your social media platforms etc. By focusing on their accomplishments it helps your clientele and your professional relationships.

To effectively nurture dormant public speaking connections, employ the "Influence: Science and Practice" principle by Robert B. Cialdini, focusing on reciprocity. Start by offering something of value with your re-engagement message—perhaps a useful article or a free webinar ticket. This not only shows genuine interest but also sets a positive tone for reciprocity, increasing the likelihood of a warm response. Such strategic generosity can reignite connections and transform them into fruitful relationships.

Offer a knowledge exchange. Discuss an area you are strong in and pick their brain on an area they are strong in. People like sharing their knowledge because we ger a slight dopamine hit from being considered an expert but that primarily applies when we feel the relationship is reciprocal so offer something in exchange and grow the relationship from that.

To nurture public speaking connections effectively, leverage the concept of "servant leadership," as advocated by Robert K. Greenleaf. Proactively offer your expertise or resources to assist your contacts in their endeavors. This approach fosters a supportive community atmosphere, enhancing your reputation as a collaborator. By focusing on their needs without immediate expectations, you build trust and respect, which are foundational for lasting professional relationships in any industry, particularly in public speaking.

We can't always go out for lunch or coffee with our contacts. Many practices and facilities have a dedicated outreach coordinator for this.If this isn't an option, showing your personality and perspective through social media can lead to connections in the form of referrals and other opportunities.

To effectively nurture connections in the public speaking realm, utilize Dale Carnegie's principle of genuine interest from "How to Win Friends and Influence People." Engage with your contacts' online content by leaving thoughtful comments and sharing their achievements. This approach not only keeps you visible but also strengthens relationships through positive reinforcement, showing that you value their contributions to the field. Such interactive engagement demonstrates your commitment to the community and personal connections alike.

You don't have to be a speaker to create experiences. When you attend events are there ways you can create your own opportunities for who you want to connect with to gather? Hosting a dinner the night before the event. A small meetup one evening after the session is over. A fun experience like a concert, bar or other attractions near the event. Often event planners will be excited to share or promote side experiences if you frame them as enhancing the event. If done well you can build many connections simultaneously and the added authority for bringing the people together.

If you're a smaller practice, whether it's just yourself or 3-5 practitioners. Start by building your core professional alliance. That might be 2-3 relationships. When that feels in place, then begin to extend your core connections, don't overwhelm yourself, this is about true authentic connections.

Avoid only connecting or reaching out through email. People who control stages are flooded with people looking for speaking opportunities. Connections to good stages are some of the most valuable relationships you can nurture. Knowing who they are personally and getting them a high-quality gift (especially right after a long event) can go a long way. A massage or spa gift card after a big event to help them relax. A nice set of kitchen knives. Perhaps a gift card to their favorite local restaurant. Get to know your connections as people, friends and allies. Set yourself apart from the masses by understanding them and serving them. I recommend reading a book called "Giftology" if you want to go deeper in this idea.

Many people get overwhelmed with trying to maintain professional relations over the long-term =. We overcomplicate what we should communicate, when we should communicate, what's the best method. I think as long as you are authentically reaching out and even doing the lightest of touches, it helps you stay top of mind and keep that connection warm for any future opportunities. My favorite method of this light touch is simply sending articles or videos that remind me of that person, whether it's their job, company, a personal anecdote I know about them, anything that I can find that helps me to say, hey, saw this today, thought of you, wanted to send it over, is a nice personal and professional touch you can bring with little to no effort.