You’ve written your keynote speech, built your website, and changed your LinkedIn title to “public speaker.” It’s time to find those gigs! Are you ready to start booking speaking gigs but not sure where to find them? Finding paid speaking opportunities is not as overwhelming as you think it is. Start here with these 5 tips!
1. Your Alma Mater
Where did you graduate high school? Where did you graduate college? One of the best ways to find speaking gigs is to approach your alma mater and pitch yourself as an alumni with a story to tell. Both high schools and universities are always looking to bring back alumni for commencement addresses, orientation week presentations, and more.
2. LinkedIn
It’s no secret that LinkedIn is growing in popularity among professionals and companies. With so many users interested in professional development and networking, LinkedIn is a goldmine for finding speaking gigs. Use the search function to search for meeting planners and upcoming conferences that align with your ideal audience.
3. Google Alerts
Make it easy on yourself to find speaking gigs by setting up Google Alerts. This free Google feature sends speaking opportunities straight to your inbox according to keywords you choose. We recommend using phrases like “Tedx, women’s conferences, women’s events,” or anything close to your niche to receive alerts as soon as they are shared to the public. Set up Google Alerts here.
4. Chamber of Commerce
Hit up your local Chamber of Commerce to see if they have any upcoming leadership events. If not, they can most likely connect you with other local organizations seeking speakers for events.
5. Create Your Own Event
Not finding the right event? Take matters into your own hands by creating your own event. Make yourself the headliner or keynote speaker, add in other speakers and workshops, and sell tickets.
BONUS: The Speaker Sister Facebook Group
Don’t underestimate the power of networking. When you enroll in Mic Drop Workshop, you get immediate access to our private #SpeakerSister Facebook community of 1,200+ women sharing speaking opportunities and tips on a daily basis. When one #SpeakerSister wins, we all win. Imagine checking your Facebook notifications and seeing opportunities like this:
What are you waiting for? There’s no better time than now to kickstart your speaking career. For more tips and guidance on monetizing your story and building a profitable & impactful speaking business, enroll in Mic Drop Workshop now.