“ Every day, in every way, I am getting better, better, and better.
Thank you, David Vogel, for these inspirational words!
Now, let's talk about you getting better as a speaker through speaking opportunities.
First, let's define a speaking opportunity.
To me, speaking means any chance to share your voice and point of view—whether at networking events, in the conference room, on podcasts, in audio rooms, on social media, virtually, or on stage, whether for a keynote, panel discussion, workshop, etc. There are so many ways to share your message and your story.
If you’re just starting out and not yet feeling entirely confident, I suggest taking consistent baby steps. Start by putting yourself on camera every day with the intention of sharing on Instagram Reels or YouTube, even without the pressure of posting it. Keep doing this until you build up the courage. Or, maybe volunteer to give a 5-minute presentation for a virtual networking group you’re part of. Whatever you choose, keep finding opportunities that make you feel a little comfortably uncomfortable, and I guarantee that over time, you’ll start taking bigger risks.
Or, if you want a more structured approach, consider taking a program like Confidently Speaking, where you’ll get weekly exercises, plenty of practice opportunities, and a supportive environment to develop new skills. It’s a fun and engaging way to build confidence while getting the reps you need to feel prepared and energized for any speaking opportunity.
And remember, building confidence is as much about mindset as it is about practice. If you’d like a little extra guidance on boosting your mindset, feel free to hop on my calendar 📅—I’d be happy to walk you through some steps to get there.
If you're a more seasoned presenter looking for more opportunities, and perhaps wanting to start getting paid to speak, here are ways you can begin finding these opportunities.
Remember, people aren’t always going to come to you just because you have a speaker reel and a one-sheet. You need to actively search, apply, and let people know you want to speak. Here are a few other things to consider:
Leverage Your Network – Tell people in your circle that you’re available for speaking engagements. Reach out to past clients, colleagues, and friends who might know of opportunities in their industries or networks.
Join Speaking Platforms – Sign up on speaking platforms like SpeakerHub, GigSalad, or LinkedIn, which allow event organizers to find and book speakers. It’s a great way to be seen by people actively looking for experts in your field.
Apply Directly to Conferences and Events – Many conferences, webinars, and panels have open calls for speakers. Research events aligned with your expertise and apply directly. Some platforms, like Call for Papers, list speaking opportunities across various industries.
Create and Promote Your Own Content – Sharing content regularly on social media or through a blog helps establish your authority and can lead to more speaking opportunities. Show your expertise and speaking skills in action to become a go-to expert. Also, make sure your LinkedIn headline clearly states you’re a speaker—this lets people know up front that you’re available for engagements.
Network in Speaker Circles – Consider joining organizations like the National Speakers Association or attending events where speakers gather. Building connections in these circles can lead to referrals and mentorship from experienced professionals. Resources like EventRaptor and Innovation Women are fantastic for connecting with event planners and finding speaking opportunities.
Pitch to Podcasts and Panels – While building your presence on the main stage, podcasts, online panels, and webinars can be stepping stones to paid speaking gigs. Many podcasts look for guest experts, and it’s a way to practice your delivery and refine your message.
Remember, consistency is key. The more proactive and visible you are in your search, the more likely you are to land speaking engagements that align with your goals.
Let's grow together!✨