Here are several resources I use on a regular basis. While I cannot guarantee you'll have the same fantastic experience, I'm quite confident that these companies will be helpful to you.
Thirty forms to help professional speakers save time! This is an essential resource that will help you start your speaking business on the right track. Click here to see the list of forms. (You'll get this CD as a BONUS when you invest in Get Paid to Speak by Next Week?)
Voice Recorder ~
Want to record your presentations and/or make your own products? I use a Sony MZ-N707 (around $200).
When looking for a mini disc recorder, be sure that it has a "microphone input." Most models don't. You can also get a digital recorder, which are less expensive. (I just like having a "hard copy" of each speech, and would rather not have to transfer files into my computer after every presentation.)
Here are a few website options for voice recorders:
With a mini disc, you will also need a lapel microphone and a patch cord with 2 "mini" male ends. I use a Radio Shack stereo lav, which is about $29.
At home microphone recorder ~
AT2020 USB Cardioid Condenser - Audio Technica (Got mine at guitar center $150)
Record tele-seminars from your phone ~
This is different from the device I mentioned above. With this, you can record tele-conferences from your phone into your Mini Disc or digital recorder. I use a Radio Shack CAT# 17-855 (wireless phone recording controller / costs about $30)
Do you like the audio Darren has on his website?
I use Instant Audio... you can add audio to your website and send out audio postcards to your client list... all you need is a phone! This was one of the BEST investments I've ever made -- only $30 / month. Click here to get a free trial of Instant Audio!
Writing or Creating your foundational phrase? Use www.Rhymer.com
Product income from the back of the room?
Do you present to audiences about speaking or humor? I offer my educational tools wholesale, so you can offer them at your programs and start earning solid income at your very next presentation.
Requirements: You must purchase one product at full price. (It's essential that you believe in what you're offering, and can refer to it in your presentation.) Then you can invest in as few as 2 more, which you can get at half-price. This will allow you to have professional product to get started until you create your own.
(Here's an example... Randy Harvey, 2004 World Champion, is speaking internationally on humor. He doesn't yet have an educational tool in the area of humor. He purchased 25 Make 'em Laugh sets & 20 Just for Laffs DVDs to take with him when he gives presentations.)
Have your phones answered professionally 24 hours a day!
(This is part of my "system" to free up time and have my product orders taken for me!)
Some people would rather speak to a "live" person than order online. I didn't want to publish a phone number, nor did I want to hire an employee. So, I use a 24-hour live person answering system. Click here to get more information about PATlive.
If you're serious about being in business, you MUST accept credit cards!
Practice Pay Solutions offers merchant accounts and shopping cart services. You need to have both in order to do business -- and you absolutely MUST be able to accept credit cards! Practice Pay knows the speaking business and they are very helpful. I highly recommend them -- talk to Jeannie! Click here to get a free trial account!
LOGO Shirts, Table Cloths, Jackets, etc. ~
I use EmbroidMe in Tulsa, OK for all of my logo'd items. Call Mary Ellen, the owner, and tell her that Darren sent you! They've done my World Champion logo on gym bags, shirts, clocks, jackets, table cloths, mugs, and more. (918) 459-6699
E-Newletter & e-list Management ~
There are many services out there, but Constant Contact is my favorite. They're easy to use, reasonably-priced, and their tech support is amazing! Click here to sign up for a free 60-day trial!
Edit audio files on your own computer ~
This audio editing program is available free for both PC & MAC users. I use it to edit audio lessons, product recordings, and many other things. It's great! Click here to learn more about Audacity.
Audio Editing by a Professional ~
? Whitney Hahn / Digital Bard (240) 566-5931
? Jim Rickert / The Creative Works (617) 471-8800
Want to create your own products?
Here's a great resource for you! You'll learn how to create & sell your own product without sounding like an infomercial. We're Talking Product 4-CD Set w/Workbook
Video Taping & Editing ~
Bill Stephen Productions does all the video work for Toastmasters International. You can also order the World Championship of Public Speaking contest DVDs from him. www.billspro.com
CD Cover & Package Design ~
? Kim Brill, Graphic Designer (first-class work!) (512) 258-2327
Get personal. Darren will review your video, listen to audio, or talk business. Tap into Darren's experience to be better, quicker. Everyone will get Darren's webinar "How to Write and Deliver a Winning Speech" ($47 value). After purchasing, contact Darren to set up your coaching session. If you're a Champions' EDGE member, remember to use your discount! ($500/hour) Purchase Coaching w/ Darren
Website Design ~
I work with Cynthia Lay / the Butterfly Herder. She does all of the World Champions' EDGE stuff, and most of mine, as well. She's awesome, and she knows what a speaker is looking for in a website.
