Here's how you can effectively manage finances and plan for growth as a self-employed public speaker.

-Budget Wisely: Track income and expenses meticulously your future self will thank you! -Plan Ahead: Set financial goals for each quarter to stay on track and motivated. -Invest in Yourself: Allocate funds for training, marketing, and quality materials your brand deserves it! -Diversify Income: Explore workshops, online courses, or consulting to expand your revenue streams. -Network & Collaborate: Partner with other speakers or organizations to boost visibility and opportunities! Remember, financial health = sustainable growth!

To effectively manage finances as a self-employed public speaker, track all income and expenses meticulously to maintain clear cash flow insights. Set aside a portion of earnings for taxes and unexpected costs. For growth, reinvest in skill development, marketing, and networking opportunities to expand your audience and increase your speaking fees over time.

You are aiming for your clients to sign off on as many expenses as possible. They can in most cases. Transport, accommodation, visas, food and insurance can usually be absorbed in the event's expenses. Build it into your contracts as a non-negotiable. Get paid 100% in advance as your own company policy. Refuse to confirm the dates until they do pay. Collect receipts wherever possible for your tax details. Never, ever agree to work for free. Instead give a price for your speaking and ask them to give the equivalent in bartering. It's amazing how many of your expenses can disappear when they make a phone call and pull in a favour that benefits you.

Create a detailed budget that outlines your income, expenses, and savings goals. This helps track your spending, identify areas for cost-cutting, and ensure you're setting aside enough for taxes and emergencies. Consider using accounting software to streamline your financial management and make tax preparation easier. Invest in your professional development by attending conferences, workshops, webinars. This helps you stay updated on industry trends, improve speaking skills, and expand your network. Build a strong online presence through a professional website, active social media accounts to attract new clients & showcase your expertise. Leverage opportunities to connect with potential clients, industry professionals, other speakers.

I don't like setting a budget, but as Dave Ramsey says, "You have to tell your money where to go. Give it a name. Or something else will." So true. Want to be in charge of your money? Give your money a name. This feels so much more powerful than "setting a budget." ????

Consider these as well as speaking... Organizing retreats. Online courses. Sponsorships. Coaching. Mentoring. Group training. Book launch and related systems. Podcasts. Sponsored ambassador. Product launches. Licensing your systems. Investing. Joint venture broking. Memberships. Masterminds. Online community administration. Each of these can be very lucrative and as a speaker, you have plenty of opportunities to prove your trust and credibility to convince potential clients or partners to work with you.

Yes and my friend @Carmen M Peters, MST, CTS, CPA is the GOAT at this. She's a concierge tax strategist. I was always told the advice better to overpay on taxes then to owe paxes. But, she'll help you strategically plan your taxes so you end up saving WAY MORE money in the long end.