Now is the time to spring into action and line up program speakers for 2023

Already? It’s only March, and 2022 has barely started. At the risk of sounding cliché, it’s that time of year to begin planning for your chapter’s 2023 programs. The speaker lineup has proven, beyond a doubt, to be the most important single point of attraction for Legatus members. Thus, it should be managed with great care. While there are several approaches to such a task, below are some best practices when it comes to planning this vital component.

• First, your chapter should have a program chair. Their main responsibility is to lead the effort to create a quality lineup of speakers for the chapter’s monthly meeting so as to create a masterpiece event.
• Second, participate in our annual Speaker Caucus. Held on March 29, this is an opportunity for chapters to share their top three speakers and to learn who were the top three speakers in other chapters during the previous year. Recommendations from other chapters are the best validation of a speaker’s quality. As a result of the Caucus, a Speaker Caucus Guide is published that compiles all these speakers for your easy reference.
• Third, make sure your program touches on a variety of topics and speakers. While there may be a tendency to lean in on certain topics or types of speakers, it is imperative that the program represents a variety of topics that lend themselves to the Catholic business leader. What makes Legatus so special is that it is tailored to our members so they can leave each meeting with valuable and practical lessons to use in their personal, professional, and business lives.
• Fourth, cost is top of mind for all chapters, and many chapters are limited by their budget when it comes to who they bring in. Contact nearby chapters, if there are any, to see if there is an opportunity to share a speaker. Perhaps a speaker will provide a discount if there are a group of chapters even if they occur at various times. Think outside the box on events. Priest panels and member testimonial panels have been successful in many chapters. Contact your regional vice president for ideas.
• Finally, produce a program brochure. This tool is a great resource for members, plus it is an invaluable marketing tool for prospective members. The best news is that our national office stands ready to serve and will design your brochure for you. All that needs to be done is to provide information and print.

If you have a best practice that you would like to share, please contact [email protected] or join the Speaker Caucus on March 29. Check Networks or your email for details.

LAURA SACHA is chief operating officer of Legatus.