You’re a motivational speaker looking to network. How can you make the most of your time?

1 Know your goals

Before you attend any networking event, whether it's online or offline, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Do you want to find new speaking opportunities, get referrals, learn from other speakers, or build your brand? Having a specific goal will help you focus your efforts and choose the right events and contacts to pursue. It will also help you craft your elevator pitch, which is a short and catchy introduction that summarizes who you are, what you do, and what value you offer.

2 Be prepared

Once you have your goal and your pitch ready, you should also prepare some other tools to make a good impression and follow up with your contacts. For example, you should have a professional and updated website, social media profiles, and portfolio that showcase your work and testimonials. You should also have a stack of business cards or a digital alternative that you can easily share with others. And don't forget to research the event and the attendees beforehand, so you can identify who you want to talk to and what topics you can discuss.

3 Be genuine

Networking is not just about exchanging information and contacts. It's also about building trust and rapport with people who share your interests and values. To do that, you need to be genuine and authentic in your interactions. Don't just talk about yourself and your achievements, but also listen actively and show curiosity and empathy for others. Don't just hand out your card and move on, but also follow up and keep in touch with your contacts. And don't just network when you need something, but also offer help and support when you can.

4 Be visible

As a motivational speaker, you have a natural advantage when it comes to networking. You have the skills and the confidence to speak in public and engage with your audience. But you can also leverage other platforms and channels to increase your visibility and credibility as a speaker. For example, you can write a blog, a book, or an article that showcases your expertise and insights. You can also create a podcast, a video, or a webinar that demonstrates your style and personality. And you can also join or create a community, a group, or a forum that connects you with other speakers and professionals in your field.

5 Be flexible

Networking is not a one-size-fits-all activity. Different events, situations, and people may require different approaches and strategies. That's why you need to be flexible and adaptable when you network. For example, you may need to adjust your pitch depending on who you are talking to and what their needs are. You may also need to use different tools and platforms depending on the format and the purpose of the event. And you may also need to experiment with different ways of networking until you find what works best for you and your goals.

6 Be consistent

Networking is not a one-time event. It's a long-term process that requires consistency and commitment. To make the most of your time and efforts, you need to network regularly and strategically. That means you should attend events that are relevant and valuable for your career, follow up with your contacts and nurture your relationships, and update your skills and knowledge as a speaker. By doing so, you will not only expand your network, but also enhance your reputation and influence as a motivational speaker.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?