If you’re sending out pitches but not getting booked, you might be making one (or more) of these common mistakes. The good news? A few simple tweaks can dramatically increase your success rate. Here’s how to avoid these pitfalls and create a winning pitch that gets event organizers to say YES.

Mistake 1: Your Pitch is Too Generic

A common mistake speakers make is sending the same cookie-cutter pitch to multiple events. Event organizers can spot a generic, copy-paste email from a mile away, and these pitches often go straight to the trash.

✅ How to Fix It:

Personalize every pitch. Research the event, mention a past speaker or theme, and explain why you’re a perfect fit.

Tailor your topic to their audience. Show that you’ve done your homework and understand their event goals.

Use the event’s language. Read their website or past programs to see how they describe their themes.

Example: Instead of “I’d love to speak at your event,” try:“I saw that [Past Speaker] spoke on [Topic] last year. My session would build on that with fresh insights about [Your Topic]. I’d love to bring a new perspective to your audience and provide actionable takeaways that align with this year’s theme.”

Mistake 2: You’re Focusing on Yourself, Not Their Audience

Many speakers make the mistake of leading with their bio rather than the value they bring. While your experience is important, event organizers care most about what their audience will gain from your session.

✅ How to Fix It:

Lead with the transformation you provide. Instead of listing credentials, highlight how attendees will benefit.

Make your pitch about them. Address their needs, pain points, and event goals.

Provide a clear outcome. Let them know what attendees will walk away with after your session.

Example: Instead of listing your achievements, say: “Your attendees will leave my session with three actionable strategies to [Solve Problem/Event Goal]. I’ve worked with [Similar Industry/Event] to help professionals implement these insights with great success.”