Some thoughts after the post-conference PSASA meeting
by Nevern Subermoney
So, I just came back from the Public Speaking Association of South Africa’s latest meeting, and honestly, I’m still processing everything. I went in kind of just wanting to get a sense of what’s happening out there, maybe get a tip or two. But I walked out with a lot more — insights, clarity, some kick-in-the-butt reminders, and this strange mixture of being both grounded and energised.
This isn’t going to be a perfectly structured summary. It’s more like some takeaways that stuck with me and what they made me think about.
- Make your offer painfully clear
In our breakout room, we spoke about how we present what we do. It hit me that even though I’ve spent ages refining how I speak about my work, there’s still a layer of fog. People need to get it — fast. And more than that, they need to see how what you offer takes away some kind of pain. That was a recurring theme: pain sells. Not fluffy benefits or inspiration or nice ideas. Pain. You need to be the pain reliever.
Petra nailed it when she said that if you offer too many things, people won’t know how to refer you. That made me pause. Because I’ve definitely been guilty of trying to sound “multi-talented” instead of being crystal clear.
- Visibility isn’t a vanity metric
It’s not just about being seen, it’s about being understood. We spoke about more stage time, building the website, getting the podcast going, writing the damn book (apparently it’s non-negotiable if you’re a speaker — thanks, Terry 😅). But beyond all that, the real shift for me was realising that visibility isn’t about ego. It’s about making it easier for the right people to find you and say, “Yes, that’s exactly what we need.”
Also, someone reminded us that creating content is great, but you still have to actually ask for the work. Because let’s be honest — it’s easier to post than to pitch.
- There’s a way to “sell” without being gross
This one stood out for me: If you’re shifting focus or exploring a new market, don’t go in with a sales pitch. Instead, ask for insight. Message 15 people on LinkedIn, ask if they’re open to a short chat, and tell them you’re doing some research. Five questions. No selling. Just curiosity. Then give them a little report afterwards.
Then — and only then — ask if they know someone who could use your service. I love this approach. It feels human, respectful, and it actually gives people something instead of asking for something straight out the gate.
- Stories are everything
In the panel, this theme kept coming up: Your personal story is the thing that sets you apart. Tim said that lots of people might talk about the same topic, but your story is what makes them listen to you. And it’s not about trauma dumping or over-sharing — it’s about shaping your story to serve the room.
Brescia talked about that shift — going from just telling your story to positioning it. That word stuck with me. Positioning. It’s not enough to be inspiring. You have to be useful. And your story has to help them, not just move them.
Also, let’s not forget Tim’s line: What are you leaving the audience with, besides your words?
- We think networking means numbers — it doesn’t
There was a strong message throughout the whole event about building genuine relationships. Not “networking” in the cold, mechanical sense, but actually making friends. Stef reminded Ursula to do exactly that. And honestly, that’s what I needed to hear. Because I’m not trying to climb some invisible ladder — I’m trying to connect with people who want to create real change.
Brescia also said something beautiful — that most of us are introverts. And that’s fine. You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room. You just have to show up with depth.
- The basics still matter
Contracts. Market focus. Company life cycles. These aren’t glamorous, but they’re the scaffolding. And without that, it’s easy to have a great message and no gigs. Also, apparently I’m supposed to be “trolling” conference organisers now — but in a good way, not the internet way.
Bonus gems that stuck with me:
- “Let me tell you how I work” — what a powerful phrase. I’m stealing that one.
- If your offer isn’t easy to refer, it’s probably too vague.
- Being known for one clear problem = currency.
- Write the book. Seriously. Just do it.
- Ask: what should I do to get known? Not how do I sell more?
- And when in doubt: jump. Clarity and community follow action, not perfection.
There’s a lot more I could say, but this is where I’ll leave it for now. I came to PSASA kind of observing from the edges — but I’m walking away with more clarity, more courage, and a much clearer next step.
To everyone who shared honestly, vulnerably, or just with some practical wisdom — thank you. You helped me more than you know.
— Nevern
