All exhibitors attend shows where there are guest speakers. And some exhibitors resented their presence. It was not difficult to understand the resentment. Many had paid for their stand, and they knew full well the ‘star’ would not get better their chances of covering their costs.
It is easy to understand the organisers reasoning behind the attraction. Pay a fee and get a few extra people through the door. The ploy is seemingly a promotional asset. By observation, it is proven to be a waste of time. If the idea worked, it would still be a ‘part’ of the events.
The large shows have ‘star’ speakers. Look carefully; the whole dynamic is different, there is a different identity, here is the explanation. Many pay to talk! What did you just write Ian? Yes, many pay to talk, in fact, these show’s foundation is one of information and Visitors attend to listen to the lectures, most of which have a charge. Why do speakers pay? The primary reasons are self-promotion, sales of books, retreats, and workshops.
We are Community driven. The Community is the show, and it is my belief many members of The Community are well up to the standard of the ‘stars’. In fact, many exceed the abilities of some celebrity attractions. We have faith in our wisdom and knowledge. Our Visitors come to see the people who are on the Community Lists, and they will never be offered fishers ‘bait’ to attend our Well Being Shows.
Guests speakers? We have a venue full of the best people to fulfil the expectations of Visitors. To my mind, introducing a ‘guest speaker’ is insulting the quality and integrity of the people who invest in the shows.
Why would we want to pay someone to damage our reputations?
Over the years I watched the celebrities. They would turn up an hour before the talk, give the presentation and leave. I remember a well known (at the time) genius who stared into my eyes after I said ‘Hello’. His arrogance was contemptuous. Another lady had much the same attitude; she couldn’t care less for the exhibitors, who were, in fact, the people who had paid a percentage of her fee.
I remember a friend who had paid thirty pounds for a celebrity workshop at Gorton. ‘In the first five minutes, we were guided to buy a book. The whole workshop consisted of anecdotes about tv appearances and financial achievements’ my answer? ‘Ask for your money back’ – He’s still waiting. All three are long forgotten, dissolved in the illusion of their words.
No, we will stay with the power and potential of The Community. Visitors can be sure of our dedication to their Well Being.
See You Soon