It’s day 33 of 2026 and I’ve received 30 booking requests.
9 have turned into confirmed contracts.
Here’s exactly how I did it.
(These apply to both business and life!)
1. Treated speaking like a professional sport
If you take it seriously, so will the audience.
You are there to deliver excellence. Remember that.
2. Responded in under 5 minutes.
In business, speed is EVERYTHING.
If you take your time, you will get overlooked.
3. Went above and beyond ‘the ask’
‘Can I create a video for them?’
‘Let’s interview a few team members.’
‘Can I visit a store to get a feel for the experience?’
Takes effort? Yes.
Worth it? Absolutely.
4. Was EASY to work with.
Not to hurt your feelings but…
You are not the STAR of the show, the audience is.
Be agreeable, go to the dinner before, show up early, stay for a bit after, text the client when you land, be on time, be kind to the tech team.
You have no idea how far it will go.
5. Treated prep calls like THE event
Are you bringing the same level of excitement to the prep call as you are to the actual event? If not, raise the energy.
This is a critical touch point in the client experience.
6. Realized that I was a part of a BIGGER picture
Your keynote is a small part of a much larger event.
How are you tying into the main theme?
How are you integrating yourself into the messaging?
7. Brought MY best on stage, every time
Every event is the Super Bowl. Period.
Treat the rooms of 50, 500 and 5000 like they are the biggest presentation of your life.
Because… they are.
You may be thinking:
”Juan, that is A LOT to do!”
Yes, it is.
What are you willing to do?
For most…
It’s the bare minimum.
If you truly commit to being extraordinary,
You will win in the long term.
Will there be rejections along the way? Of course.
But will people want to work with you over someone that is just interested in a check? Absolutely.
Growing in this career comes from having an obsession with creating the best possible experience.
That takes committing to true excellence.
For those that do this, the opportunities will surprise you.
Commit to going above and beyond.
Every. Single. Time.
Here’s to an amazing year!
Your Friend,
Juan Bendana
Keynote Speaker | Author of Confidence by Choice
0 comments