5 Things You Need to Hear Right Now as a Speaker Struggling to Find Gigs

I know that the journey of becoming a successful speaker can feel like a tough uphill climb sometimes. Finding gigs, especially those that pay, can be a real challenge when you’re just starting out with your business.

And I get it – believe me, I’ve been there.

Now, some of you might be feeling a bit lost or overwhelmed. And that’s okay. The speaking business is vast and can often feel like a maze. 

But don’t worry.

Today, I want to share with you five key things you need to hear, right now, as a speaker struggling to find gigs. These are golden nuggets, folks. Words of wisdom that can pave your way to success.

We’re not talking about easy shortcuts or magical formulas here. I’m afraid there’s no silver bullet to success in any business, never mind speaking.

What I’m giving you today is real, practical, down-to-earth advice that can make the difference between getting stuck in a rut and moving forward in your speaking career.

So let’s dive in, shall we?

3. Don’t Give Up

Here’s something you might not want to hear, but it’s a reality check we all need sometimes – success in the speaking industry takes time and persistence. 

Yes, that’s right, I said it. Time and persistence. There’s no magical shortcut, no instant success formula. But you know what? That’s okay.

Because every “no” you hear? It’s not a setback. It’s not a failure. It’s one step closer to a “yes.”

You might’ve heard of the theory that every “yes” is preceded by a number of “no’s.” 

There’s a widely recognized rule in sales, often referred to as the Rule of Seven. It’s suggested that it can take an average of seven contacts or interactions before a sale is made, or in your case, before you land a gig.

This rule is not set in stone, but it’s a good reminder that persistence pays off.

So, keep putting yourself out there. Don’t let rejection get you down. Treat every “no” as a stepping stone, a learning experience. Because with each “no,” you’re just getting closer to that sweet “yes.”

It won’t be as exact as getting a “yes” after seven “no’s,” but I bet it’ll be darn close.

Remember, the most successful speakers aren’t the ones who have never heard a “no.” They’re the ones who didn’t let a “no” stop them. So, keep going. Your “yes” is just around the corner.

4. Try New Things

You know how I mentioned shaking things up in your speech content? Let’s delve a bit deeper into that. It’s all about being open to new experiences and daring to step outside your comfort zone.

Consider expanding your speaking topics or maybe even targeting new industries. Maybe you’ve been focusing solely on motivational speeches. Why not try dabbling in leadership, teamwork, or personal development?

Sometimes, we get so stuck in our ways that we miss out on the vast array of opportunities out there. Shaking things up and trying a new angle can be just the thing to get those speaking engagements rolling in.

So, don’t be afraid to experiment. Your speaking career is more than just a one-way street. There’s a whole world of directions and possibilities out there. It’s time to explore, my friend.

5. Stay Positive

Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about attitude. The speaking journey is full of ups and downs. It’s easy to stay motivated during the ups, but what about the downs? That’s where a positive attitude comes in.

Facing setbacks can be tough.

I’ve been there. Sometimes it hurts to face continual rejection or disappointment.

But it’s crucial to keep your chin up and not let the negatives weigh you down. Remember, every successful person has faced their fair share of setbacks. It’s part of the process.

Believe in yourself and your message. After all, you’ve got something important to say. Something that can make a difference. Don’t lose sight of that.

So just remember to keep your eyes on the prize. Yes, it takes hard work and determination. But with that winning combination, you’ll find the speaking gigs that are just right for you.

After all, the only way to truly fail is to give up. So, keep going, keep believing, and keep shining. Your time is coming.

Turning Struggles into Success: Your Next Steps as a Speaker

And there we have it – the five must-hear pieces of advice for any speaker struggling to find gigs.

Remember, success won’t happen overnight, but with a focus on honing your craft, making meaningful connections, staying resilient, experimenting, and keeping a positive attitude, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Your immediate takeaway? Pick one area to focus on this week. Maybe it’s reaching out to a new connection or trying a new speaking topic. Remember, small steps lead to big strides.

Now, if you’re looking for a community of like-minded individuals who are on a similar journey, I’ve got just the thing for you. I’d like to invite you to join our Private Facebook Group, Breakthrough Public Speakers.

With over 4,000 members, it’s a supportive space where you can learn from others, share your own experiences, and receive the encouragement you need on this journey. I hope to see you there!