> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://jmperafan.gitbook.io/meetups/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://jmperafan.gitbook.io/meetups/before-the-meetup/speakers.md).

# Speakers

The third step is finding speakers or, at the very least, organizing a program for the day. It might seem daunting to reach out to a stranger and ask them to speak. But it is also the perfect excuse for you to reach out to somebody you admire or want to learn from.

## Where to find speakers? <a href="#where-to-find-speakers" id="where-to-find-speakers"></a>

The easiest places are you own network. Think about your senior colleagues, past colleagues, consultants you have worked with.

Alternatively, try looking for people who spoke at other meetups. These people are more likely to be open to presenting at your meetup as well.

Nevertheless, don’t be scared to reach out to strangers on LinkedIn. Just be transparent about your intentions. Write a message in a way that looks like you are not trying to recruit that person or sell them something.

## Who is a good candidate to speak? <a href="#who-is-a-good-candidate-to-speak" id="who-is-a-good-candidate-to-speak"></a>

Technically, anybody. It is up to you. The rule is that novice speakers are easier to find, but experienced speakers will attract a bigger audience.

The most common approach is to have one advanced talk and one talk that is beginner friendly.

## What can I write to a potential speaker? <a href="#what-can-i-write-to-a-potential-speaker" id="what-can-i-write-to-a-potential-speaker"></a>

Here is a template I have used in the past:

> *Dear {{ potential\_speaker }},*
>
> *We haven't met yet, but {{ referral }} told me to contact you. I am messaging you because I am organizing a {{ topic }} meetup in {{ city }}. The idea is to {{ vision of the meetup }}.*
>
> *You are, of course, more than welcome to attend! However, I am writing to you because I am looking for speakers who would like to present their work (30 minutes). So far, we have had people talking about {{ first\_topic }} and {{ second\_topic }}, but nobody from the {{ speakers\_speciality }} community.*
>
> *Would you be interested or do you happened to know somebody who might be willing to speak? Our next meetup will take place on the {{ date }} (we already have a venue, a sponsor, and a couple of speakers confirmed). Here is the link to our Meetup page.*

## How many speakers per meetup? <a href="#how-many-speakers-per-meetup" id="how-many-speakers-per-meetup"></a>

The magic number tends to be 2 with a break in between, but some people prefer 3. It is fully up to you, but more than 3 is difficult to fit into a reasonable schedule. I would only consider 1 speaker if you have a very knowledgeable or famous person. Somebody you know people will come and see.

<br>


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