Communicator Frequently Asked Questions

Is representation by CSS exclusive?

We are open to non-exclusive or exclusive management.

You, as a professional communicator, have other things that need your attention and where you can make a greater impact. If you are at a place where you need an agency to do tactful fee negotiation and draw up contracts for your services, all requests for your services can be routed to our office. All requests are handled in a professional manner, whether they are large or small venues.

How do I know if I am ready to be represented by CSS?

CSS is always looking for communicators who are serious about the calling of God on their life and ministry, who understand the business and marketing aspects of speaking and writing who are actively working for in their areas of expertise. We are looking for authors with a published book(s) and/or seasoned veterans in a specific area (singing, musician, personality trainer, comedian, speaker) with a professional quality CD's or DVD's.

You should:

have training, education and experience in your specific area;

be actively pursuing further professional development (formally or informally);

be promoting yourself using a professional quality speaker promotional sheet/brochure and professional quality demo presentation - CD or DVD - with proven results;

have experience working with event planners and women's ministry directors to book events (i.e. the majority of your speaking events are not from friends);

have set fees that are comparable to what we would charge for your speaking; and

be speaking/performing on a regular basis.

If you feel you have met all the above guidelines, and would like to request a start up packet, or more information about being represented by CSS, please click here.

Is there a charge to be represented by CSS?

There is no set up fee at this time. We make our money when we book an event for you. We require a 20% deposit of the communicator's fee from the event planner due within 30 days of when the agreements are written.

How do I decide what my speaker fees should be?

The fees of our communicators vary from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending upon a variety of factors (full time or part-time ministry, number of books in print, national media exposure, personal need). Please quote your fees to CSS giving consideration that we are paid 20% of that amount as a deposit when an event is booked.

If you need further assistance to help you with setting your fees, or more information about being represented by CSS, please click here.

What if the event planner cannot pay my standard speaker fee?

Our communicators are often willing, whenever possible and reasonable, to reduce their fee as needed to work within an event's budget. CSS stays in touch with the communicator when booking each event and gets the communicator's approval before reducing a fee.

What if I want to accept freewill/love offerings?

On occasion, most communicators may agree to do an event for a freewill/love offering basis. However, when CSS is working with event planners, we can't charge 20% of an unknown amount. We then usually come to terms with the event planner on a speaking fee, being flexible with the communicator's fee as needed (with the communicator's approval). On the rare occasion when an event planner cannot commit to a set fee, we handle that on a case-by-case basis. Freewill/love offerings should be the exception not the rule for communicators who are represented by a bureau/service.

If I apply to be represented by CSS, will I be automatically accepted?

We reserve the right to reject applicants. You may need more experience, training, or there may be another agency that would better meet your needs and fit your topic areas. Thank you for understanding that we cannot accept all applicants.

Why should I become a "Featured Communicator"?

PLEASE NOTE: The Featured Communicator listing is only for people represented by CSS.

Each month there are a limited number of spots available to be listed as a CSS Featured Communicator on the CSS web site and e-zine.

As CSS continues to grow, and communicators are added, you may wish to be in the forefront -- on the first page of this area -- where event planners can't help but take notice.

I have my own business and would like to be listed on the Resources page. How do I do that?

The experts listed on the Resources page have established a relationship with CSS or Karen Power. They have demonstrated a level of excellence and professionalism in their respective areas, as well as shown they are interested in helping others, especially communicators, grow to reach their full potential. (There is a fee for this listing.) Please contact Karen Power for more information.