Finding speakers

Finding speakers can pose a challenge for some groups. Here are some places worth looking:
 

• Members of your own group

  • Note members who show enthusiasm in particular Google technologies during group events and ask them to discuss the topic with the group during the next meeting.

• Google Experts

  • We are working on creating better ways to connect you to our growing Google Expert community. More to come.

• Local groups

  • Contact local user groups (i.e. Python, Ruby, Java, etc.) and invite them to speak on using Google platforms.

• Local tech companies

  • Contact companies whose products work with Google (e.g. mobile software company using Android), and ask them to speak about the integration.
    • Be sure that speakers from local companies are developers who can speak to the technology and not marketing personnel.
  • Web start-ups may be especially keen to have developers participate in events, thereby extending their network.

• Universities

  • Check local schools for students who have done advanced research around Google technologies.

More tips on talks:

• Talks can be as little as 5 minutes long and simply be a way to initiate the discussion among the group. Formal, prepared presentations are not necessary.
• Don’t let distance prevent a promising speaker from participating in your event. Use Google Hangouts to bridge the geographic gap.