Do speakers get paid?
While at times an honorarium may be offered by an organization, generally, requests are for speakers who are able to volunteer their time.
Will I get assistance with transportation and/or lodging?
This depends on the organization. We try to match organizations and speakers in the same general area. In some cases, though, speakers can participate in events using Skype or other similar online communications methods, meaning that travel and lodging are not required.
Does AFSA pay for speakers?
No. AFSA simply matches interested organizations with speakers based on location and desired topic of discussion.
Will the information I provide be shared with outside organizations?
No, the AFSA Speakers Bureau database is not made available and we will ask permission before sharing contact information with an organization.
I live abroad. Should I register anyway?
While we get very few requests from abroad, there is no harm in registering. Again, with the increase in the use of Skype and other electronic communications, it is not always necessary to be on site.
I’m an active-duty member of the Foreign Service. Can I register?
Yes, active-duty members are welcome to register and may be called upon when posted in Washington, DC.Active-duty members of course must receive clearance for public speaking and many members have been able to do so successfully.
How often should I expect to get invitations to speak?
While AFSA may contact you with an invitation to speak, it is largely dependent on the number of requests we receive, the topic requested, and the location of the organization.Most speaking requests come from the DC area, but we have also gotten requests from all over the country that we have been able to successfully match with members of the AFSA Speakers Bureau.Many members join the AFSA Speakers Bureau in addition to pursuing their own speaking and outreach activities.In doing so, it lets us know of your interest and expertise and allows us to keep you informed of AFSA’s outreach activities and resources.
What kinds of groups contact AFSA looking for speakers?
All kinds. Everything from retirement groups to high school model United Nations and World Affairs Councils to church groups. These groups may be as small as a dozen or as large a few hundred.
