1) HOW CAN I BECOME A PROFESSIONAL SPEAKER?

Develop an expertise on a subject that is also of interest to others, and worth something to them, so they're willing to pay you for it. Practice -- out loud, in front of the mirror, then to whatever group will have you, including elementary school students, Rotary Clubs, PTA's, whatever. Join your local Toastmasters (check web listings or phone book). Read books about speaking (How to Speak, How to Listen, by Mortimer J. Adler, is one of many good ones.) Join or visit your local chapter of the National Speakers Association (602/968-2552).

2) HOW CAN I FIND A SPEAKER'S BUREAU OR LECTURE AGENT?

As with literary agents, lecture agents and speaker's bureaus are interested in clients who have established credentials. In the case of professional speaking, this means having testimonial letters from clients, a videotape of a presentation or compilation of presentations, a flier describing you and your talks, and other evidence that you’re experienced and good at what you do. There are numerous agents and bureaus listed on the web, but my best advice is to join professional organizations (namely, the National Speakers Association), learn about this business, and get connected.

3) I AM MOVED EACH TIME I HEAR A GREAT SPEAKER SPEAK WITHOUT BEING NERVOUS. WHAT DOES IT TAKE?

PRACTICE! :-)

4) WHAT'S THE MAGIC IN IT?

Confidence and connectoin with the audience, which comes from practice. :-)

5) I AM ASPIRING TO BECOME AN ADMIRABLE PRESENTER. COULD YOU PLEASE TELL ME HOW TO ACHIEVE THAT?

Think less about "admirable" and more about "available, connected, authentic, useful, entertaining." Think less about YOU and more about THE AUDIENCE.Good luck!

For more tips on how to give great speeches, see my articles page, especially A Good Speech is Like a Good Relationship.