I’ve created a list to help you prepare for your next speaking gig

I love a List.  I also love a checklist.  If you love checklists do read Atul Gawande’s excellent book – The Checklist Manifesto – definitely worth it.
 
Here's a list that you could turn into a checklist, of what you might want to consider when preparing for your next speaking gig:
 
1. Be Clear on what success looks like:

• Clarify the purpose of your speech and what the client wants the audience to take away. 

2. Understand the Audience:

• Research and understand as much as you can about the audience; demographics, nationalities, expectations etc.
• Tailor your content and delivery to resonate with them while still delivering on the objective.

3. Prepare Your Speech:

• Plan the structure of your speech with an introduction, main points, and conclusion.
• Make sure your message is clear and focused and that it delivers on the objective.
• Create visual aids or materials if needed.
• Practice your speech to make it clear and easy to understand. 

4. Practice:

• Rehearse your speech several times to build confidence and get the timing right.
• Pay attention to your body language and voice.
• Ask for feedback from others to improve.
• Prepare extra material in case you need to fill more time and look at what you can cut if your time is reduced. 

5. Prepare for Questions:

• Think about what people might ask and come up with good answers.
• Listen carefully to questions and respond thoughtfully.
• Stay calm and have an open conversation with the audience. 

6. Talk to the Organisers:

• Talk with the event organisers to understand the details and what they expect from you.
• Give them any information or materials they need.
• Arrive early on the day of the event to get familiar with the location and meet the organisers. 

7. Dress Appropriately:

• Wear clothes that match the event's dress code and make you look professional.
• Choose comfortable clothes that let you move easily.

8. Technical Check:

• Familiarise yourself with the venue and any equipment you'll be using.
• Test microphones, projectors, or other tools beforehand.
• Have backups of your presentation on different devices.

9. Deal with Nerves:

• Find ways to calm your nerves before speaking, like taking deep breaths or imagining a positive outcome.
• Remind yourself that you're knowledgeable and prepared.
• Think positively and believe in yourself.

10. If there’s a Networking Opportunity:

• Have a way of collecting people’s contact details, if you have theirs, you can follow-up.
• Prepare a short and interesting introduction about yourself or your work but make it about outcomes and what’s in it for them, not all about you.
• Make sure you are speaking less than they are, you’ve delivered your speech now it’s time to listen 😊

11. Follow Up:

• Plan how you'll keep in touch with people after the event.
• Do one or all of the following - send thank-you notes, share more resources, connect on LinkedIn.

Feel free to adapt this list based on your specific speaking engagements and preferences.  If you do I’d love to see it.