Mr. Marketing: Why speak to Rotary clubs?

Between finding good pizza, making new friends, and negotiating the highways, moving to a different city can be intimidating. This was driven home to me when we relocated from Boston in 2002 and knew nobody in California.

After unpacking and settling our daughter into school, I set out to grow my consulting practice. Only…where does one start?

My choice: public speaking about newsletter development.

Thus was I introduced to San Diego’s 66 Rotary clubs, where each community’s movers and shakers meet weekly. Knowing each club typically hosts a speaker every week, I developed a 20-minute informational presentation and started my outreach efforts.

Before long I was providing free advice to multiple high-powered audiences whose profile perfectly matched the kinds of people I wanted to meet personally and professionally. That room full of business owners and community leaders makes a Rotary club a tempting target for many speakers. Members socialize in a relaxed atmosphere and hope to learn something from their guest.

The last thing they want is someone trying to sell stocks or timeshares. Meaning I needed to persuade listeners I was knowledgeable about marketing without trying to sell them anything. Naturally, I made myself available after each talk in case anyone wanted to request a copy of my presentation, get more information, or schedule private consultations.

Over the next nine months I spoke before 40 different clubs and met 1,000 prospective clients. I made friends, acquired some business and even uncovered the Rotary Club I’ve since called home. I’ve often heard that fear of public speaking is one of the biggest anxieties most people face and I was once like that too. But overcoming that fear helped me grow both my reputation and my bottom line.

Since then I’ve leveraged the contacts made during Rotary tour ’02. My efforts have led to more friends, more business, more speaking engagements and this column.

This was all because I stretched my comfort zone and addressed strangers with “Hello, today I’d like to talk with you about…”

As you consider low-cost ways to build your business, consider informational presentations at area Rotary clubs. For the cost of gasoline you’ll get a meal, educate people about your business, and maybe join a new organization. With that said, I wish you a week of profitable marketing.

Visit www.askmrmarketing.com to book Mr. Marketing for speaking to your organization.