4 different folks warned me that this person has taken advantage of meetup organizers, from all over the country, but I was put into a position where I was unable to refuse the request. I looked to see if there had been any promotion, and if there was, it was minimal and I did not see any mention on their Facebook group.
They requested that I not only publicize the speaking date but also a workshop that was scheduled for the next day.
We were able to get several who paid alot for the workshop along with another 5 who signed up for a larger conference for several hundred dollars per person.
The impression was given that the speaker felt that they were doing us a favor by offering to speak to the group but in fact their reputation preceded them, which kept my members away.
Now, I feel taken advantage because there was no gratitude shown or acknowledgement for the work done to secure a good turn out for the meeting or for the workshop.
THE LESSON - Always research any requests from speakers and go with your gut feeling or if you are warned about drama surrounding a potential speaker refuse the request.
And if by chance you do accept the speaking engagement be sure you have an arrangement before hand to collect a commission on all money raised from your event(s).
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