How Do You Handle Unexpected Event Cancellations
In the past 2 weeks, I have had a number of colleagues who are professional speakers here in the U.S. and abroad that have had events they had been contracted to speak at either cancel or become postponed due to the coronavirus. This is a disruption no one could have predicted 6 – 9 months ago when they signed their speaker contract. But here it is, and we need to learn from this experience.
Let’s first look at this situation from the event manager’s perspective. Know that event managers have an obligation to provide a safe environment for conference attendees (including speakers). There have actually been legal cases where conferences and events were found liable for subjecting attendees to dangers and harm. I doubt that any speaker would want to knowingly attend an event where there is a danger of becoming exposed to the coronavirus. Event cancellations and postponements are a way for the event managers to protect themselves and their attendees.
Secondly, as a speaker, review your speaker agreement/contract. Does your agreement contain a force Majeure clause which “frees both parties from liability or obligation when an extraordinary event or circumstance beyond the control of the parties occurs”(Force Majeure – Wickipedia)? You might also consider adding an indemnification clause which means that if you become ill because of the Coronavirus, the event would agree to cover you under its healthcare insurance policy. Consider adding these clauses (and have your attorney review them) for future events.
Thirdly, think about a long-term strategy and alternative solutions. Can you get booked for next year’s conference? Can you provide a webinar or virtual meeting? What other ways can you provide value to the event planner and audience to further build this relationship? I’ve heard a few forward-thinking individuals in the speaking world discussing the future of digital shows.
This might be a good time, during the downturn and downtime in the speaking world, to become familiar with and proficient in your digital and online skills.
Resource – this might be helpful
Towards the end of last week, I was directed to move the on-ground public speaking class that I teach at a local university to an online format. Many of you may be in a similar situation in having to move your upcoming live presentations online. A common challenge in an online environment is keeping your audience engaged. A recently discovered resource I am using is “LOLA: Live Online Learning Activities – How to Increase and Improve Interactivity in Virtual Classrooms” by Sivasailam Thiagi Thiagarajan.
Thiagi is well-known in the training world and his website offers free resources for trainers and facilitators. Check it out!
I’m curious – in this current time of social isolation and distancing – would you find it valuable for me to offer an open online forum to brainstorm opportunities and creative ways to connect with our audiences? Let me know at sonja@sonjastetzler.com.