13 Proven Ways to Land More Speaking Gigs in 2024

Want to boost your speaking career in 2024? Here's how to secure more opportunities:

Create a clear speaking identity
Improve your online presence
Make useful content
Connect with key people
Write a good speaker pitch
Speak for free sometimes
Team up with other speakers
Use speaker agencies and websites
Ask for reviews and recommendations
Prepare several speaking topics
Keep learning and improving
Use video to promote yourself
Stay in touch after events

These strategies will help you stand out, showcase your expertise, and build lasting relationships in the competitive speaking world.

Quick Comparison:

Strategy	Key Benefit	Effort Level
Clear identity	Stand out	High
Online presence	Visibility	Medium
Useful content	Credibility	High
Networking	Opportunities	Medium
Good pitch	Bookings	Medium
Free speaking	Experience	Low
Collaboration	Wider reach	Medium
Agencies	Connections	Low
Reviews	Social proof	Low
Multiple topics	Flexibility	Medium
Continuous learning	Skill growth	High
Video promotion	Engagement	Medium
Follow-up	Relationships	Low

By implementing these tactics, you'll be well-positioned to land more speaking gigs and grow your career as a public speaker in 2024.

1. Create a Clear Speaking Identity

To land more speaking gigs in 2024, you need to stand out from the crowd. Creating a clear speaking identity is the first step to making yourself memorable and in-demand.

Here's how to build your unique speaking identity:

Define your key topics: Get clear on what you want to be known for. This helps event organizers quickly determine if you're a good fit for their audience.
Develop your signature style: Your speaking style should reflect your personality. Don't try to copy others - embrace what makes you unique.
Craft your unique value proposition: Identify what sets you apart from other speakers. What specific strengths, expertise, or perspectives do you bring?
Create a cohesive brand: Develop a consistent image, voice, and message across all your platforms. This includes your website, social media, and marketing materials.
Showcase your expertise: Produce high-quality content that demonstrates your knowledge and resonates with your target audience.

To illustrate the power of a clear speaking identity, consider the case of Lisa Messenger. Initially struggling with public speaking, Lisa took a break to refine her approach. She focused on sharing her experiences and knowledge in a way that felt natural to her. The result? Lisa is now one of the most sought-after speakers on the Australian business circuit.

"You have to decide if it's going to position you in the best way for your audience and target clients or the people you're looking to inspire and connect with." - Suz Chadwick, Business, Branding & Speaker Coach

Remember, your speaking identity should be:

Authentic to who you are
Relevant to your target audience
Consistent across all platforms
Focused on your areas of expertise

2. Improve Your Online Presence

In today's digital age, your online presence can make or break your speaking career. Here's how to boost your visibility and attract more gigs:

Build a killer website: Your website is your online home base. Make it mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and packed with info about your speaking topics. Include a clear call-to-action for booking inquiries.

Dominate social media: Pick 2-3 platforms where your target audience hangs out. Post regularly and engage with your followers. For example:

LinkedIn: Great for corporate speakers. Share industry insights and connect with event planners.
Twitter: Ideal for quick updates and engaging with fans.
Instagram: Perfect for sharing behind-the-scenes content from your speaking engagements.

Create valuable content: Show off your expertise by:

Writing blog posts on topics related to your speaking niche
Starting a podcast to dive deeper into your area of expertise
Posting video snippets of your speeches on YouTube

Optimize for search engines: Use relevant keywords in your website content and social media profiles. This helps event planners find you when searching for speakers in your niche.

Showcase your speaking skills: Upload full-length videos of your speeches to YouTube. Link these videos on your website and social profiles.

Get social proof: Encourage clients to leave reviews on your website and social media. These testimonials build trust with potential clients.

Remember, consistency is key. Regular updates keep you visible and top-of-mind for event planners.

"If you don't have a website, first of all, where have you been?" - eSpeakers

This quote highlights just how crucial an online presence is for speakers in 2024. Don't get left behind – start building your digital footprint today.

3. Make Useful Content

Creating valuable content is key to landing more speaking gigs. It shows event planners your expertise and gives them a taste of what you offer. Here's how to make content that gets you noticed:

Write for industry magazines: This boosts your credibility and can even bring in extra cash. Pick publications your target audience reads and pitch articles that showcase your knowledge.

Start a blog: Share insights on your speaking topics. Aim for a mix of how-to guides, opinion pieces, and industry analysis. For example, if you're a leadership speaker, you might write about "5 Ways to Build Trust in Remote Teams" or "The Future of Workplace Communication".

Create video content: Record short clips sharing tips or discussing trends in your field. Post these on YouTube and social media. Once you hit certain view thresholds, you can even monetize your YouTube channel.

Launch a podcast: This lets you dive deep into topics and show off your speaking skills. Interview other experts to expand your network and provide value to listeners.

Develop an online course: Package your expertise into a structured learning experience. This not only generates income but also proves your ability to teach and engage an audience.

Write a book: While time-consuming, a book cements your authority in your field. It can lead to speaking gigs and additional income through sales.

"Events are content too!" - Author Unknown

This quote reminds us that speaking engagements themselves are content opportunities. Record your talks (with permission) and share snippets online to attract more gigs.

4. Connect with Key People

Building relationships is the backbone of landing more speaking gigs. It's not just about what you know, but who you know. Here's how to connect with the right people:

Identify and reach out to event planners

Research event planners in your industry using LinkedIn, Google, or Eventbrite.
Craft a friendly, non-pushy email introducing yourself.
Ask if they're the right person to discuss speaker bookings.
Include your website and relevant materials in your email signature.

Network at industry events

Attend conferences, seminars, and trade shows in your field.
Focus on helping others rather than self-promotion.
Listen more than you talk to understand others' needs.

Leverage your existing network

David Fisher, a LinkedIn expert, shares a practical tip:

"I reached out to a couple of hundred people in my LinkedIn network. Many responded positively, saying, 'Thank you for thinking of me,' when I asked for help in finding speaking opportunities."

Join professional speaking organizations

Consider groups like Toastmasters International or the National Speakers Association.
These offer learning and networking opportunities with fellow speakers.

Build relationships with venue managers

Regularly contact venue managers through email, phone, or social media.
Share your portfolio and invite them to events where you're speaking.
Offer incentives for bookings they bring your way.

5. Write a Good Speaker Pitch

Crafting a strong speaker pitch is key to landing more speaking gigs. Your pitch should grab attention, show your expertise, and highlight the value you'll bring to the event.

Here's how to create a pitch that stands out:

Focus on a specific topic: Instead of broad subjects, pick a niche angle. For example, rather than pitching "Food Blogging 101", try "5 Food Blogging Secrets You've Never Tried Before."
Address the organizers' needs: Consider what event planners look for:
- Fit with the overall program
- Ability to deliver content in the allotted time
- Value and relevance to the audience
Include key elements in your pitch:
- A brief outline of your talk
- Audience takeaways
- Your credibility and unique perspective
- Why your talk is timely and relevant
Use a one-sheet format: Create a single-page document that includes:
- Your name and photo
- Speaking topic and benefits to the audience
- Short bio establishing your expertise
- Testimonials from previous talks
- Contact information
Show, don't just tell: Include links to blog posts, videos, or speaking reels that demonstrate your expertise and speaking style.
Tailor your bio: Write a concise, third-person biography that highlights your relevant accomplishments and aligns with the event's audience.

Here's an example of a strong pitch outline:

Element	Content
Title	"Myths, Misconceptions, & Mistakes: Lessons from a Decade in Digital PR"
Background	Over 10 years of experience in Digital PR
Outline	1. Common myth in digital PR 2. Widespread misconception 3. Frequent mistake and how to avoid it
Takeaways	- Understanding the role of luck in successful campaigns - Framework for evaluating campaign performance

6. Speak for Free Sometimes

Speaking for free can be a smart move, especially when you're starting out. It's a low-risk way to gain experience, build your reputation, and open doors to paid opportunities.

Here's why you should consider unpaid gigs:

Practice makes perfect: Free talks let you hone your skills without the pressure of a paying audience.
Expand your network: You'll meet potential clients and fellow speakers who might refer you for future paid gigs.
Test new content: Use free events to try out fresh material and get audience feedback.
Build your portfolio: Collect testimonials and video clips to showcase your speaking abilities.
Generate leads: Even without a fee, you can often sell products or capture leads at these events.

Here's how to make the most of free speaking opportunities:

Choose wisely: Pick events that align with your goals and target audience.
Deliver value: Give your best performance, regardless of pay.
Follow up: Connect with attendees and organizers after the event.

"Speaking for free gives you the experience you need to become a paid speaker." - Author, Build Book Buzz

Remember, free doesn't mean worthless. In March 2023, a speaker at a corporate event accepted a fee that was 25% of their normal rate. Why? The opportunity included one-on-one time with the CEO of a Fortune 500 company—a connection potentially worth far more than their standard fee.

Benefits of Free Speaking	How to Capitalize
Gain experience	Request video recordings
Build reputation	Ask for testimonials
Network	Exchange contact info with attendees
Test new material	Gather audience feedback
Sell products/services	Bring materials to sell or promote

7. Team Up with Other Speakers

Joining forces with fellow speakers can open doors to more gigs and bigger audiences. Here's how to make it work:

Co-host events: Team up with speakers who complement your expertise. This approach lets you pool resources, split costs, and tap into each other's networks.

For example, in 2022, marketing expert Neil Patel and SEO specialist Brian Dean co-hosted a webinar on "Advanced SEO Techniques". The event drew 5,000 attendees - more than double what each typically attracted solo.

Cross-promote: Share each other's content and upcoming talks on social media. This simple act can significantly boost your visibility.

Guest on each other's platforms: Appear on other speakers' podcasts, YouTube channels, or blogs. It's a win-win: you both get fresh content and exposure to new audiences.

Join speaker associations: Groups like the National Speakers Association (NSA) offer networking opportunities and insider knowledge about upcoming events.

Benefits of Teaming Up	How to Make It Happen
Wider audience reach	Attend industry events
Shared resources	Use LinkedIn to connect
Diverse perspectives	Join speaker associations
More referrals	Offer to co-present

Remember: collaboration, not competition, is key in the speaking world. As Don Tapscott, author of "Wikinomics", puts it:

"In an age where collaboration is becoming central to business success, speakers who team up can create more value than those who go it alone."

8. Use Speaker Agencies and Websites

Speaker agencies and websites can be your ticket to more speaking gigs. These platforms connect speakers with event organizers, making it easier to find opportunities and get booked.

Here's how to make the most of them:

Join reputable agencies: Consider applying to well-known agencies like the National Speakers Bureau. They review all submissions and add qualified speakers to their database, which account executives use to find talent for events.
Create profiles on speaker websites: Platforms like SpeakerMatch and Events in America allow you to list your services. While they often charge a fee, the return on investment can be substantial.
Keep your information up-to-date: Regularly update your profiles and website with new speech topics and achievements. This helps agencies promote you effectively.
Understand the costs and benefits:

Platform	Cost	Potential Return
SpeakerMatch	$200-$300	$5,000+ per deal
Events in America	$250-$300	Varies
AssociationExecs	$1,000/year	Six-figure revenue potential

Look beyond traditional agencies: Professional associations often host events and may have directories for speakers. Industry calendars can also help you find relevant speaking opportunities.
Be patient and persistent: Getting listed doesn't guarantee immediate bookings. It's a competitive field - the National Speakers Bureau receives over 1,000 proposals annually.

Remember, while agencies can boost your visibility, they're just one part of your speaking strategy. Combine this approach with other methods to maximize your chances of landing gigs.

"Finding speakers has become way easier because event planners can go online and can find speakers for almost any topic." - London Speaker Bureau

9. Ask for Reviews and Recommendations

Getting positive feedback and referrals from past events can boost your chances of landing more speaking gigs. Here's how to do it effectively:

Time it right: Ask for reviews immediately after your speech when the experience is fresh in people's minds. Memories fade quickly, so strike while the iron is hot.
Create a custom feedback form: Design a short survey with open-ended questions to gather specific insights about your strengths and areas for improvement. For example:
- What was the most valuable part of the presentation?
- How could the content be more relevant to your needs?
- Would you recommend this speaker to others? Why or why not?
Go one-on-one: Approach attendees individually after your talk. People are often more honest and detailed in private conversations than in group settings.
Dig deeper: When someone offers generic praise like "Great speech!", ask for specifics. You might say, "Thanks! What part did you find most useful?"
Make it easy: Offer multiple ways for people to leave reviews, such as:
- A dedicated page on your website
- Your LinkedIn profile
- Speaker booking platforms you're listed on
Follow up by email: Send a thank-you note to organizers and attendees, including a link to leave a review. Here's a template:

"Hi [Name],

Thank you for attending my talk on [topic]. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the presentation. Your feedback helps me improve and assists others in deciding if I'm a good fit for their events.

Could you take a moment to leave a brief review here: [Link]?

I appreciate your time and hope to speak at one of your events again soon.

Best regards, [Your Name]"
Use social proof: Share positive reviews on your website and social media. This can encourage others to book you and prompt more people to leave reviews.
Ask for referrals: If someone enjoyed your talk, don't be shy about asking if they know of other events where you might be a good fit.

Remember, feedback is a gift. As speaker Mel Sherwood notes:

"Feedback is a gift so I was delighted to receive fab comments & useful feedback today on my new speech."

10. Prepare Several Speaking Topics

Want to land more speaking gigs? Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Having multiple talk topics ready to go is like having a Swiss Army knife in your pocket - you'll be ready for any situation.

Here's why this matters:

Flexibility: Different events need different content. By having a range of topics, you can fit into more event schedules.
Broader appeal: More topics = more chances to connect with different audiences.
Stay current: Hot topics change fast. Multiple options let you ride the wave of what's trending.

So, how do you build your topic arsenal? Here's a game plan:

Know your strengths: List out your areas of expertise. What can you talk about for hours?
Research trends: What's buzzing in your industry? In 2024, topics like AI, mental health, and corporate culture are hot tickets.
Mix it up: Blend evergreen topics with cutting-edge stuff. For example:
- "Building a Sustainable Future"
- "Unleashing the Power of Neurodiversity in The Workplace"
- "Championing Mental Health at Work"
Tailor and test: Adjust your topics based on audience feedback. What resonates? What falls flat?

Remember: It's not just about having more topics. It's about having the right topics that hit home with your audience.

"If you're not educating, motivating or entertaining your audience, in other words if you aren't delivering any real value, don't do it."

This quote nails it. Your topics need to deliver real value. Period.

Pro tip: Keep your topic list fresh. Set a reminder to review and update your topics every quarter. This way, you'll always have something new and relevant to offer.

11. Keep Learning and Improving

To land more speaking gigs, you need to keep sharpening your skills. Public speaking isn't a "set it and forget it" kind of skill. It's more like a muscle - the more you work it, the stronger it gets.

Here's how to keep growing:

Take courses: Platforms like Udemy and Coursera offer public speaking courses. For example, the University of Washington's "Dynamic Public Speaking" course has helped over 1.2 million students improve their presentation skills.
Join Toastmasters: This worldwide club gives you regular chances to practice and get feedback. It's like a gym for your speaking skills.
Watch and learn: Study great speakers. TED Talks are a goldmine for this. Pay attention to how they structure their talks, use body language, and engage the audience.
Record yourself: It might feel awkward, but watching yourself speak can reveal habits you didn't know you had. Use your phone to record practice sessions.
Seek feedback: Ask trusted friends or colleagues to watch you speak and give honest feedback. Better yet, bring them to your actual gigs.
Practice, practice, practice: The more you speak, the better you'll get. Look for local opportunities - community events, meetups, or even your workplace.

Remember, even pros keep learning. Marjorie North, a public speaking expert, says:

"Good communication is never perfect, and nobody expects you to be perfect. However, putting in the requisite time to prepare will help you deliver a better speech."

12. Use Video to Promote Yourself

In today's digital age, video content is king. It's a powerful tool to showcase your speaking abilities and land more gigs. Here's how to leverage video effectively:

Create a speaker reel: This is your highlight reel. Include clips of your best moments on stage, audience reactions, and testimonials. Keep it short (1-2 minutes) and impactful.

Post regularly on YouTube: Start a channel focused on your expertise. Consistency is key. For example, the YouTube channel "Charisma on Command" has grown to over 7 million subscribers by regularly posting videos on communication skills and public speaking.

Go live on social media: Platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook allow live streaming. Use this to give quick tips or answer questions related to your speaking topics.

Add video to your website: Include your speaker reel and clips from past events on your site. This gives potential clients a taste of your style and energy.

"Through video, we demonstrate the power of our voices, our presence, and our energy in a tangible way that allows event organizers, clients, and selection committees to see what we offer them and their audiences." - Marvin Flavien, Video Marketing Strategist

Tips for on-camera success:

Look directly into the camera to create a connection with viewers
Use vocal variety to keep listeners engaged
Show passion through animated facial expressions and energetic body language
Practice regularly by recording yourself and seeking feedback

13. Stay in Touch After Events

Landing speaking gigs isn't just about delivering a great talk - it's about building lasting relationships. Here's how to keep the momentum going after you step off the stage:

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours

A quick, personalized note shows you value the opportunity and the connections you made. For example:

"Hi [Organizer's Name],

Thank you for having me speak at [Event Name]. I enjoyed sharing insights on [Topic] and meeting so many passionate professionals. If you have any feedback or questions, I'd love to hear from you.

Best regards, [Your Name]"

Share event highlights on social media

Post photos, key takeaways, or behind-the-scenes moments. Tag the organizers and attendees you met. This keeps you on their radar and shows you're engaged with the community.

Address unanswered questions

If you didn't have time to answer all questions during your talk, follow up with answers via email or a blog post. This extra effort can turn casual listeners into loyal followers.

Offer additional resources

Share relevant articles, tools, or templates that complement your talk. This adds value and keeps people coming back to you as a trusted source.

Connect on LinkedIn

Send personalized connection requests to people you met. Mention a specific conversation you had to jog their memory.

Plan for future engagement

Action	Purpose
Schedule social media posts	Keep your content fresh in followers' minds
Create a newsletter	Share speaking updates and industry insights
Offer a free consultation	Convert attendees into potential clients

Conclusion

Landing speaking gigs in 2024 requires a mix of strategy, persistence, and personal growth. By implementing the 13 methods we've discussed, you can boost your chances of securing more engagements and growing your speaking career.

Remember:

Build your brand: Create a clear speaking identity and improve your online presence.
Provide value: Make useful content and prepare several speaking topics to showcase your expertise.
Network effectively: Connect with key people, team up with other speakers, and use speaker agencies.
Perfect your pitch: Craft a compelling speaker pitch and use video to promote yourself.
Embrace opportunities: Consider speaking for free sometimes to gain experience and exposure.

The journey to becoming a successful speaker is ongoing. As Grant Baldwin, author and speaker, puts it:

"Keep doing the work, keep getting your message out there, and you'll discover a life of deeper meaning and purpose."

To track your progress and improve your success rate, consider using this simple table:

Metric	Goal	Actual
Speaking gigs pitched	20/month
Gigs secured	5/month
Audience feedback score	4.5/5
Post-event follow-ups	100%

FAQs

How to get more public speaking gigs?

To land more speaking gigs, try these methods:

Use LinkedIn: Search for events and connect with organizers.
Tailor your pitch: Show how you fit the conference theme.
Build a portfolio: Showcase your speaking experience and topics.
Expand your reach: Look for opportunities outside your main industry.
Network first: Build relationships before pitching.
Practice regularly: Hone your skills online and offline.
Create engaging content: Make your presentations memorable.
Start small: Begin with local events to build your reputation.

How to land your first speaking gig?

Follow these steps to secure your first speaking engagement:

Choose your topic: Decide what you want to speak about.
Define your audience: Identify who would benefit from your talk.
Boost your expertise: Develop your knowledge in your chosen area.
Improve your skills: Practice speaking regularly.
Create buzz: Generate interest in your topic within your network.
Reach out: Contact local venues that might host you.
Refine your talk: Work on making your presentation effective.
Join groups: Network with like-minded individuals in your field.

How to get on speaking panels?

To secure a spot on speaking panels:

Join professional groups: Become a member of industry associations.
Attend events: Go to conferences in your field to network.
Offer value: Propose unique insights or perspectives for panels.
Build your brand: Create content that showcases your expertise.
Connect with organizers: Reach out to event planners directly.

"The more experience you have, the more chances you'll have to hone your style and become excellent onstage (and worthy of being paid)." - Tim Ellis, Author and Speaker