Cashing In on Seminars

When people hear the word seminar what do you think comes to their minds? Many might say that they are technical and boring. Well, get these connotations out of your mind. Seminars can be educational and fun at the same time. Here are some pointers in conducting a profitable seminar:



1. Find an interesting topic.

You can't expect to sell your seminar with a topic that does not appeal to your target audience. You have to do research on what the people want and/or need. Make sure that you study the topic you have chosen if you are the speaker. If not, hire a speaker that is knowledgeable about the subject at hand.



2. Plan the seminar.

The seminar should be well-planned from the conception phase to the feedback phase. You have to set targets such as when and where the seminar is going to take place, the design, etc. Of course, you have to consider when a large group will be available to go to your seminar. As for the place, you need to know how many participants you are aiming for. Make sure that it is big enough to fit the audience comfortably and is conducive to learning.

Select a theme for your design. As for how much you will charge for your seminar, you have to consider your budgeted costs first. Charge over your costs but never overprice. Also, promote your program as much as possible. While you're at it, create a catchy title that will attract your audience to coming to the seminar.



3. Employ techniques other than the traditional.

To eliminate the dullness of a seminar, why not use other techniques that will brighten up the program? There are many ways to do so like making the seminar interactive wherein the audience can ask or comment on the speakers talk. Or maybe, provide a short video depicting a story or a point that will move them. In conducting your speech, try to make the seminar entertaining by adding in a bit of humor. Relate to the audiences lives and deliver sincerely. A visual presentation is a plus. Make the learning experience fun so that the participants will look forward for more.



4. The week before the seminar: call, rehearse and check!

The last week before the seminar should be used for getting people to come to your seminar. Use your public relation skills and your craftiness to convince people to come. Rehearse the flow of your program and your speech, if you are the speaker. Polish your presentation and make sure that all your printed materials are ready for the big day.



5. Talk with plenty of confidence.

During the seminar itself, talk with a lot of confidence, whether you're the host or the speaker. This will create a sense of professionalism concerning your seminar. Always be entertaining and try to address the needs of your participants and remember to thank your participants in the end.