What do you do if your internship in motivational speaking doesn't lead to job opportunities?

1 Reflect Deeply

After an internship in motivational speaking, take time for introspection to assess what you've learned and how it aligns with your career goals. Reflect on the aspects you enjoyed most and the skills you excelled at. Did you thrive in public speaking, or did you find a passion for coaching others? Understanding your strengths and preferences is vital for determining your next steps. This reflection can guide you toward roles that suit your abilities or inspire you to create your own opportunities in the field of motivational speaking or adjacent industries.

2 Network Actively

Networking is a powerful tool in the motivational speaking industry. Use the connections you made during your internship to seek advice, learn about unadvertised job openings, or secure recommendations. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage with peers online. Remember, relationships built on genuine interest and mutual respect can often lead to unexpected opportunities. Your next job lead could come from a former colleague, a workshop attendee, or even someone you met at a speaking event.

3 Upskill Yourself

The world of motivational speaking is dynamic, and continuous learning is essential. If your internship hasn't led to immediate job prospects, consider upskilling to make yourself more marketable. This could mean taking courses in related areas like communication, psychology, or leadership. By expanding your knowledge base and skill set, you not only become more valuable to potential employers but also increase your confidence and capability as a speaker.

5 Volunteer Strategically

Volunteering can be an excellent way to gain further experience and visibility in the motivational speaking field. Offer your speaking services to non-profits, schools, or community groups. This not only helps you refine your craft but also demonstrates your commitment and passion for motivating others. Such engagements can enhance your resume and may lead to paid opportunities through word-of-mouth recommendations or by impressing someone in the audience with decision-making power.

6 Diversify Efforts

Finally, consider diversifying your efforts beyond traditional job applications. Explore freelance opportunities or consultancies where your motivational speaking skills can be an asset. Look into industries like corporate training, life coaching, or even sales, where effective communication and motivational skills are highly valued. By broadening your scope, you increase the chances of finding a role that benefits from the unique skill set you've developed during your internship.