How to recruit GOOD guest speakers?

To recruit high-quality guest speakers for your finance club, here are some actionable strategies based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Leverage Alumni Networks:

   • Continue reaching out to alumni from your high school. Alumni are often more willing to give back to their community and share their experiences.
   • If your school has an alumni mentoring program or a directory, use it to identify individuals in finance or related fields.

2. Tap into LinkedIn:

   • Use LinkedIn to find professionals in finance, especially those with ties to your area or school.
   • Focus on alumni from nearby colleges or universities who might be more approachable.
   • Personalize your messages—mention your club, its goals, and why their experience would be valuable.

3. Ask for Referrals:

   • After hosting a guest speaker, ask them if they know someone else who might be interested in speaking. This approach works well because it comes with a warm introduction.
   • Frame it as, “We’d love to continue learning from professionals like you. Is there anyone else you’d recommend we reach out to?”

4. Utilize Personal Connections:

   • If you have family or friends in finance, ask them to introduce you to their colleagues or contacts who might be interested in speaking.
   • Your boss in real estate could be a great resource—ask them for recommendations or introductions to finance professionals.

5. Engage Local Professionals:

   • Attend local networking events, finance meetups, or industry panels in NYC. These events are great for meeting professionals who might be open to speaking at your club.
   • Look for speakers who have participated in similar events or panels—they’re often more willing to engage with students.

6. Collaborate with Other Clubs:

   • Partner with finance or investment clubs at nearby schools or colleges. They might have connections to guest speakers who could also visit your club.

7. Cold Outreach with a Twist:

   • Instead of generic cold messages, highlight the unique aspects of your club and its proximity to NYC. Mention how your club is inspiring the next generation of finance professionals.
   • Keep your outreach concise and professional, and always follow up if you don’t hear back.

8. Offer Value to Speakers:

   • Emphasize the opportunity for speakers to mentor and inspire young minds.
   • If possible, offer to feature them in your school’s newsletter or social media, giving them additional exposure.

9. Be Persistent and Creative:

   • While joking about the Lexington/53rd subway station, the idea of being persistent and creative in your approach is valid. Think outside the box—reach out to professionals who’ve written articles, appeared on podcasts, or are active on social media.

By combining these strategies, you’ll increase your chances of recruiting high-caliber guest speakers who can provide valuable insights to your club members. Keep the momentum going, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or referrals along the way!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/tips-how-to-find-mentors-so-you-dont-have-to-pay-for-free-stuff?customgpt=1, Tips: How to find mentors so you don't have to pay for free stuff, Don't Throw Away Your Shot - Networking with Senior Professionals as an MBA, How tf do I network