For those of you at the start of your speaking journey – congrats! This is the start of what is a gratifying, fulfilling, and potentially lucrative career. But before you get too starry-eyed and jump head-first into this world, you should know a few things about becoming a successful speaker.
So without wasting any more time, let’s get through these things you might not want to hear about becoming a successful speaker.
7 Things You Don't Want to Hear About Becoming a Successful Speaker
Here are the minute marks that cover highlights in the training episode:
1. You Need to Understand It Takes Time
(2:15) There’s one thing I can guarantee about your future success; it will take time. Lots of time. Is it possible that you deliver an awe-inspiring speech that goes viral online and catapults you to fame? Sure, but those are few and far between. Plus, only specific genres, such as motivational speaking, will elicit these kinds of reactions.
The reality is that for 99% of us, it takes time and effort to become a successful speaker. And that’s OK – so long as you don’t give up. The hardest part is keeping going, even when there’s no sign of progress. If you can manage that, then you’re already well on the way to success.
2. A Successful Speaker Will Find a Niche
(3:16) Successful speakers tend to corner tiny sections of the speaking market and DOMINATE them. They don’t try to be all things to all people but instead focus on honing their skills in a small area. This makes it easier for them to establish themselves as experts and find speaking gigs outside their local area.
So if you want to become successful, then you need to find your niche and get clear on what you can provide. Then, you need to show the world why you are the best person for the job. And no, niching right down does not limit your income potential. It has the opposite effect and often means that you’re even more in demand.
3. You Need to Network
(4:05) People don’t like it when I tell them that they need to get out there and network. They shudder at the thought of having to make small talk and introduce themselves to strangers. But, if you want to become a successful speaker, you need to start networking immediately.
Start by attending events in your local area or related industry meet-ups. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to practice your pitch and make connections that could be useful down the line.
4. You Need to Invest in Yourself to Become a Successful Speaker
A successful speaker will invest the time and money necessary in order to establish their name. They’ll spruce up their website, update their headshots, hone their one sheets, and even take online training courses or hire a coach to improve themselves and stay ahead of the competition.
And if you’re not doing these things, you will be left behind. So, be willing to invest in yourself and your career if you want to become a successful speaker.
5. You Need to Speak for Free
(5:15) I know no one ever likes to hear this, but if you want to become a successful speaker, then you will need to speak for free – at least in the beginning. This gives you the chance to get on stage and show off your talents while also getting more exposure.
Speak at events, conferences, workshops, and anywhere else that can help give you some credibility and help spread the word about your speaking services. As long as you’re adding value to the event and getting a reciprocal relationship out of it, then it’s worth doing for free.
6. To Become a Successful Speaker You Need to Persevere
(6:16) Speaking of tough times, perseverance is one thing that all successful speakers have in common. Securing speaking gigs is hard, especially during those early days, but a successful speaker knows going in that it’s a long road and that there will be times of frustration and disappointment.
Let me be upfront – you will face roadblocks, rejections, and disappointments along the way. But if you stay positive, productive, and determined, you can make it through to the other side.
7. You Need to Travel
(6:55) Finally, if you want to become a successful speaker, you will have to get out and travel. Even though technology has made it easier than ever before to connect with people across the world, nothing beats an in-person appearance at a conference or event when it comes to building relationships and spreading your message.
So be prepared to travel, even if it’s just within your own city or state. You’ll get to meet new people, learn more about the industry, and create connections that could result in future speaking opportunities.
Becoming a Successful Speaker is Not Easy, But You Can Make it Happen
(7:41) At the end of the day, becoming a successful speaker takes dedication and hard work – but it is also incredibly rewarding. So don’t be discouraged by the things I’ve said – use them as a guide to help you get started on your journey.
If you need any help starting out, get in touch. We have a wealth of resources available to you here at Charli Jane, and I’m always happy to help. From speaker marketing templates that save you time and energy to the Charli Jane Speakers Club to help you get booked, there’s something for everyone.
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Again, don’t forget to learn more about The Charli Jane Speakers Club. If you are looking to get on more stages … this club will give you everything you need to accomplish this!
Resources & Links
The Charli Jane Speakers Club – Learn more.
If you’re ready to get on more stages you’re in the right place! We provide members with 5,200 – 10,400 speaking opportunities a year! Yep, you heard that right! There is something for everyone. I also created a program called The Booked Solid Success Path. It goes hand-in-hand with the speaking opportunities. Plus, an amazing community and more!
Episode 144: How to Market Your Speaking Business on a Budget
Book: Speak So Your Audience Will Listen – Learn more here.
This is a great book! The techniques and exercises can be a great asset to your speaking business. It will engage and motivate you to be the best you can when in front of your audience.
Breakthrough Public Speakers Community – Join us here.
My team and I are inside this community helping you, encouraging you, and supporting you through your speaking journey… along with 3,000+ speakers!
I hope you enjoyed the training.
Every week I release a new training episode to help you launch and grow your speaking business.
Keep Inspiring! – Wendi xo
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Meet Wendi McNeill
As the Founder and Owner of Charli Jane Speaker Services®, Wendi has been “Opening Doors of Opportunity” for speakers since 2002.
Charli Jane Speakers provides speakers with support, exposure, tools, tips, speaking and media leads, coaching/learning programs, and much more to assist them in growing their speaking business. Learn more about Wendi
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