I spent most of last week at the American Society for Training and Development ( ASTD ) International Conference and Expo (8000+ attendees) here in Washington, DC at the very impressive Walter E. The days were chocked full of interesting sessions, interesting people and interesting observations. . Washington Convention Center.

Now there are far more speakers than audiences, and veteran professional speakers must contend with athletes and celebrities for the most coveted (and highest-paying) spot on the program: the keynote address. Therefore, to get the big fees – or any fee at all – you must compete in the keynote or general-session market.

Because associations can get free speakers for the concurrent sessions, many state and regional associations only pay for keynoters, general sessions and wind-down speakers. The challenge is to make that transition from teacher at the concurrent session level to performance at the general session. Pamela S.