Networking tools

Definitely. Speaking engagements are excellent word-of-mouth networking tools.

When you schedule an appointment with someone you think might be interested in what you’re selling, the time you spend with them is so important. Imagine having that same one-hour appointment in front of a few dozen businesspeople in your community, all at the same time, In effect that’s what you’re doing when you’re asked to make a presentation at various clubs and organizations.

Develop a presentation that is informative, educational and entertaining, but not gratuitously commercial. Just the fact that you're the "expert speaker" should provide plenty of good will with the audience and position you as an authority.