Breaking....umm...Branding News: NSA to Platform (Not Exactly)

***The following blog was written before NSA decided NOT to change their branding.***

"The times.....they are a-changing.." Lyrics from a Bob Dylan song that can now be applied to today's businesses which are planning to re-brand. Re-branding is not something to be taken lightly. Ask anyone who's been involved in re-branding a business and they'll tell you, it's time-intensive, takes much collaboration and going back and forth. It takes vision. Re-branding can make or break an organization. It's that significant.

Enter.....the NSA. No, not the National Security Agency. Although, according to some NSA (National Speakers Association) members, they sometimes have to explain which NSA they are representing. 

The National Speakers Association has decided it's time for a change. At the 2014 NSA Convention in San Diego, attendees were privileged to see the BIG REVEAL. 

Enter....Platform. Changing the name of the organization gives it a new identity. The very definition of "platform" can be the stage from which a speaker presents or an individual's statement of principles and plans. Maybe the brand "Platform" incorporates a bit of both. Plus, it's one of today's business buzzwords, readily recognizable, familiar.

Still, what would prompt a well-known, established organization with name recognition to change all that? 

• "National" no longer representative of the membership- The global population has become more closely connected than ever before. It's easier than ever to expand in the marketplace.
• "Speakers" not an accurate term- Members are storytellers, coaches, celebrities, educators, strategists....and the list goes on. 
• "Association" is outdated- In 1973, this worked. Today many organizations don't use this term. 

For more information, click here to take a look at this video clip from the convention, unveiling the brand and sharing, "This new brand, and everything that comes along with it, is how we take the past and build on all the great things that we have done here." According to the website, www.platform.net, Platform is slated to launch in 2015. 

For this gal who often speaks from the platform, I look forward to seeing the NSA transition to Platform in 2015. Embracing change can be challenging. It can also be exciting and carry you to greater heights of success. 

The world is watching, NSA. Let the change begin!

Jean 

Jean Bailey Robor, author of "She Has a Big 'But'! Get Past Your Excuses & Realize Your Dreams," is that "Big 'But' Humorous Speaker." Contact her for your next corporate, civic or faith-based event. 

A Champion's Blog Post

Recently, I read a blog post by a World Champ. Now, that's not unusual. I believe if you have a dream, you need to follow those who have been there and done that. My dream is to become better at what I do: connecting with an audience. So, I listen and learn to those who have done and are doing just that.

One of those folks is World Champion of Public Speaking, Darren LaCroix. You may have heard of him. If not, stop reading now and click here to see his winning speech.

That speech won Darren the World Championship in 2001. Since then, he has dedicated himself to helping others become better speakers. I had the privilege of seeing him in person last year in Cincinnati, OH. It was standing room only. No surprise. He's THAT good.

Last month, Darren posted a blog that not only impressed me, it made me think. And that's the best kind of blog. Within a few minutes of reading it, I was challenged to further reveal my authentic self in my presentations, in my blogs, whenever I speak with people.

Today, I want to share Darren's life-changing blog with you. Click here to read it now.

I challenge you to think about that part of you that you need to share to connect with others, to become more authentic. Maybe it's time you, like Darren, shared your relationship with God.

Maybe it's time you begin that relationship.

Having a balanced life includes the spiritual. I truly believe that. I'm living proof as there have been times over the years when I've been close to God and other times when I wasn't so close. Wherever I've been, it's affected other areas of my life.

That's why reading Darren's God Blog had such an impact.

Be bold. Be brave. Be authentic.

Jean

Ready to book Jean for your next event? Click here now!

For Meeting Planners (or anyone who is interested in hiring Jean)

If you're in charge of booking speakers for your organization, you know the value of hiring a speaker who accomplishes what you want / need for your audience. And you can imagine the stress of hiring a speaker who does not meet the needs of your audience. 

Jean is passionate about what she does. She is also sensitive to what you do. While she wants your business, she's aware of the task you have of finding the best speaker that 'fits' your needs. (She's even talked meeting planners OUT of hiring her when they want a different kind of speaker.)

Here's some info that Jean has put together, just for you: 

What can Jean do for you at your next event?

• Keynote
• Workshop / Educational Session
• Panel Discussion
• Facilitator
• Emcee
• Presentation Coach
• Break-outs
• Round-table discussion
• Stand Up Comedy

What is the best way to set up the room?

If you have more than 50 people, a raised platform is preferable. After all, Jean is a wanna-be tall & skinny girl. Actually, a platform is preferable for any of Jean’s presentations for that very reason, just to give everyone a clear view. But, if you can’t accommodate, no sweat. Jean’s pretty good at standing tall. (Especially in heels!)

Set the room wide, not narrow, and stagger the seating if possible. This gives attendees a clearer view. Seat attendees close to the front of the room. You may want to rope off the back rows of seating until the front section is filled.

Be sure the stage area is well lit; spotlights work wonders.

Any audio / visual needs?

Jean works best when NOT behind a lectern. She likes getting up close and personal to the audience with a hand-held mic. If you don’t have a mic stand, let Jean know. She’ll bring her own.  If you prefer she present behind a lectern, let her know.

If Jean will be presenting with a slide deck, be sure to have a projector / screen handy.

Are you ready to book Jean? (or at least to learn more about her)

Click here now!

Already booked Jean?

Smart move! Here’s what to expect:

• A pre-program questionnaire- the more details you share the better your event will be. And, as always, it will be customized to your audience.
• An agreement to sign.
• Jean’s personal contact info so you can get in touch with her anytime.
• Promo photos, short and long bio.
• Ask about a Promo video! (made just for your event!)
• A speaker that is professional and super easy to work with!

Still have questions? Visit Jean's website: www.JeanBaileyRobor.com or email her at Jean@JeanBaileyRobor.com.