3 questions you may have about seminars

By James W. Johnson

When doing seminars, first you have to determine what your market is and who is in it. Then, you have to define what you want to accomplish. Every meeting is a seminar — from one-on-ones to groups of 100.

  •          Centers of influence
  •          Groups and organizations
  •          Family meetings
  •          Dinner seminars

The list goes on and on.

Also, you’ll want to ask yourself:

How do I promote a seminar?

We use mailing houses, direct mail, radio shows, centers of influence, public encounters, social meetings, referrals, etc. What can you afford?

How do I get people to my seminar?

First, you have to invite them. But that is the easy part. Most importantly, you want them to RSVP. You must call them within 48 hours before the event to confirm. Generally, 40 percent will show. Don’t be disappointed with no-shows; that is just a part of doing seminars. Focus on the ones that show up. You will drop the rest later.

Should I allow questions?

I suggest you try to keep them to a minimum while giving the presentation. If attendees do ask a question, repeat it and give the answer quickly and precisely. You don’t want to get off subject while presenting or you may never get back on track.

Here is a suggestion on you could deal with questions during your presentation: “I’m going to answer most of your questions through what I’m going to teach you today, and at the end, if I haven’t, I promise I will. Further, if I don’t, we can cover that more in depth during your no-cost-no-obligation-leave-your-checkbook-at-home appointment. I’m here to give you a 100,000-foot view of things. We will discuss how they apply to you when we meet.”

James. W. Johnson is an 11-year MDRT member from Laguna Hills, California. Learn more in the November episode of MDRT Presents.

 

Verified by ExactMetrics