Jaimie: Well hello today we're diving into the exciting world of landing paid speaking gigs, whether you're a seasoned speaker or you're just starting out, the art of securing these opportunities is crucial for building your reputation and career. So let's get started.
First off, understand your unique value proposition. What do you bring to the table that others don't? It could be your expertise in a niche area, your engaging storytelling ability, or maybe just your innovative ideas. Knowing this will guide your pitch and it will really help you to stand out. Now remember, every speaking opportunity is a chance to share your insights and make an impact. Your unique perspective is your ticket to the stage.
Now let's talk about building your personal brand. A strong online presence is a non-negotiable in today's digital age. Start with a professional website that showcases your speaking engagements, your testimonials, and a reel—some sort of speaker show reel if possible. They are expensive, but they do pay off if you can score that incredible speaking gig from them. Use social media to share valuable content with your audience and network with event organisers. Remember, I always say this: consistency is key. It was the same in my previous episode where I was talking about pitching. So just constantly, consistency is going to be key. Regularly update your content to reflect your latest thoughts and experiences. This really keeps your audience engaged and shows event organisers that you're active and relevant.
Now, networking cannot be overstated. Attend industry events, join relevant groups and forums, and don't shy away from introducing yourself. The more people know you and what you stand for, the higher your chances of being recommended or considered for speaking gigs. Keep an eye out for conferences and events in your field. Maybe research the audiences and reach out with a personalised pitch. Show them that you can add value to their event.
Now let's talk about crafting your pitch. Speaking of pitches, crafting an effective one is crucial, and in my previous episode, I went into more detail on pitching. Start with a compelling subject line for your email, and in that email, clearly state who you are, your proposed topic, and why it's relevant to their audience. Be concise, but persuasive. Also include links to your website, previous talks, and any relevant press that you might have had. A successful pitch isn't just about selling yourself; it's about showing how you can solve a problem or enhance the experience for their audience.
Now, let's talk about speaker bureaus and other platforms because a lot of people overlook these. In my Paid to Speak course, I have a fair few videos that are devoted to speaker bureaus. They can be gateways to paid speaking opportunities. So create a compelling profile and just regularly update it with your latest achievements. Some platforms allow event organisers to reach out directly, so make sure your profile really stands out. And being active on these platforms just increases your visibility and shows that you're open to opportunities. It's also a great way to learn what event organisers are looking for.
Now let's talk about the follow-up. After you've sent your pitch, don't forget to follow up. A gentle reminder can bring your proposal back to the top of their inbox. However, always be respectful of their time and decision. Persistence pays off, but always balance it with professionalism. So if they pass on your proposal, maybe ask for feedback, and it's sometimes a good way to keep the door open for future opportunities.
So landing paid speaking gigs is a mix of knowing your value, building a strong brand, effective networking, a compelling pitch, and just a bit of persistence. Remember, each no that you get brings you closer to a yes. So stay dedicated, continue refining your skills, and those speaking opportunities will continue to roll in. Thank you for joining me today. I hope that these insights really inspire you to take your speaking career to the next level. Remember, the world needs to hear what you have to say. So get out there and make your voice heard. Until next week. Keep pitching and have a great week.
