Subscribe to the Network5 Steps in Responding to Your Next Speaking Request
As a youth worker, you are probably recognized as a communicator in your church, and so often times get asked to speak at other ministries or events in the community or within the body. In addition to this, there might be opportunities outside the church as well, everything from a community prayer breakfast to a denominational youth ministry gathering in another state. Here’s my ideal process when I get asked to speak outside of my direct ministry/calling.
Thank them for the ask
It is an honor to just be asked. Somehow in the selection process your name came up and enough people thought it was a good idea. If you were the first choice or the last in a long line of options that said no, be sure to thank them for the opportunity and continually be humbled at the chance to speak.Wait at least 24 hours to respond
If there’s too much of a rush, there’s a problem. While you should be sensitive to timeliness and respond within reason, don’t think you have to give an answer right while you’re standing there. Take the time to pray be about the opportunity and see if God gives you something to speak on and a passion for the opportunity.Talk to your spouse
This is the big one – and I’ve made this mistake way too many times to not have it listed here. My wife (ideally) partners with me in all of my speaking requests. Whether it is just filling in for a small group or talking at a leadership event, she needs to be involved. This could be one of the most insensitive ways we walk over our spouses in ministry. Don’t make this mistake!Make sure it fits OK with your schedule
This first thing you might do is look at your calendar, which is important. Even more important is making sure you are healthy physically and ready to speak spiritually. If everything points to a go, still remember that every ask is an add – meaning it if is outside your current schedule and outside the scope of your current projects, you’re still adding it to your plate. If you’ve got an event just around the corner, you would probably be wise to turn it down even if the dates could fit if you push really hard.Don’t be afraid of no
While it is difficult to say no, you might be surprised at how easy a no is to hear, and how unscathed, they can just move on to the next speaker option on the list. You might offer some other speaker suggestions within your organization or community, but they probably have someone else they closely considered before landing on you as well.
JG
all good stuff. thanks.
Wait at least 24 hours to respond
i recently got rung up 12 hours before an event… so couldn’t wait 24!!