Jaimie: In today's episode, I'm talking all about how to create a speaker one sheet, what to include in this very important part of your speaker toolkit. So, in the speaking world, the initial impression can make or break an opportunity. And so, one of the most potent tools for speakers to get attention and convey their credentials is what we call the speaker one sheet.
So, if you're keen to curate an impactful one sheet or if you're just looking to refine yours, I thought I would give you a bit of a quick guide today on what to include in your speaker one sheet. So, before we do that, let's talk about what the one sheet is. In its essence, a speaker one sheet is a concise, visually appealing piece of document that encapsulates your expertise, your style, and your value proposition. It's essentially your professional snapshot for event organisers, companies, or institutions looking to hire a keynote or a guest speaker.
Some of the key components of a stellar speaker one sheet include a captivating headshot. This is often the first thing people notice. So, I encourage you to opt for a high-resolution professional image that not only shows how you look but also gives a hint of your speaking style, whether it's energetic, authoritative, friendly or motivational. A dynamic bio, your biography, should be more than just a list of accomplishments. A lot of people actually get this wrong because they either put too much information in there or not enough. It's your story. So, briefly narrate your journey, your milestones, and what ignited your passion for speaking. What do you want the audience to learn or feel through your speeches?
Then put a list of topics. Clearly showcase the themes or subjects that you are adept at discussing. This could range from leadership, technological trends, personal development, and others. Highlight any unique or signature talks that you offer. The other thing you want to put in your one sheet, if you can, are some testimonials and reviews. In my Paid to Speak course, you actually get a template for a four-page speaker bio, and that's really where I encourage people to put their testimonials. But you know, if you're one sheet, if you can fit it in, you might want to put a review, put a testimonial because authentic praise can significantly enhance your credibility. So, incorporate genuine testimonials from past events, collaborations or workshops. These act as vouches for your skill and impact as a speaker.
Now, put your previous speaking engagements in here. Offer a glimpse into your experience by mentioning notable events or conferences where you've spoken. If you've been a keynote speaker or invited to high-profile events, make sure that these are prominently displayed. Media mentions and features: if you've been quoted, featured, or profiled in magazines, news outlets, podcasts, or TV, highlight these. Third-party validations just bolster your experience and reach.
Contact details: This might seem elementary, but ensuring that your contact information is clear and accessible is really important. So, when you put a phone number, your email and then links to your social media, including your LinkedIn profile, your website, you can make them hyperlinked even on Canva, so when you make it a PDF, people can immediately click on it and it goes straight to your website, your socials.
And then, a call to action (CTA). You want to end your one sheet by guiding the reader on the next steps. Whether it's directing them to your YouTube channel for sample talks, prompting them to visit your website, or inviting them to just get in touch for booking inquiries. A clear call to action is indispensable.
So, let's talk now about designing your one sheets. The design of your one sheet is equally important. A cluttered or an outdated design can really detract from your content. So, here are some considerations: consistent branding. The colours, the fonts, and just the overall design aesthetic should align with your personal or professional brand. You need to ensure that there's consistency across all of your materials.
Whitespace is your friend. A cluttered one sheet can be off-putting. So, use whitespace effectively to make the document breathable and easy to skim through. Quality over quantity: while it is tempting to overload your one sheet with tons of information, focus on quality. Every piece of information should serve a purpose. Don't just put something in there for the sake of it.
In the age of digital portfolios and LinkedIn profiles, the speaker one sheet remains a cornerstone for professionals in the speaking realm. It provides a tangible, concise overview of what you offer. And when done right, it can be the key that unlocks myriad opportunities. Crafting a compelling one sheet isn't just about listing qualifications or past events. It's about communicating your story, your passion, and the unique value that you bring to an event or audience. By focusing on the components that I've talked about in this episode, and ensuring a blend of engaging content with a stellar design, you'll be well on your way to creating a speaker one sheet that stands out in a crowd.
