Alan: When and how did you begin speaking professionally (for a fee)?

Patricia: In 1975, a hairstyling company called Markham paid me $350 a day for hairstyling demonstrations. What set me apart from other stylists was the fact I could cut hair for four hours and talk the entire time! I realized the people in the back could not really see what I was doing. Therefore, I had to describe what I was doing in a way that they thought they could see. To keep their attention, I also told them how to sell more, interview potential employees, and promote and market. The speaking part of the program was so successful Markham extended the training to a second day on management and motivation. Since I was the star of my Dale Carnegie class and attended Toastmasters, I knew how to organize my remarks without notes.

At the same time, my executive clients invited me to speak to their service clubs, staff meetings, and small conferences. Because of my personality and expertise at cutting their hair, my clients thought I would be a pretty good speaker. However, without exception, they were amazed how good! Many of my first free or low-fee talks to their companies eventually led to major long-term relationships. Read More→