How to Become a Speaker and Find Opportunities!

Becoming a professional speaker is more than just delivering a great message—it’s about positioning yourself as an authority and seizing the right opportunities. Having spoken across many countries including Australia, Los Angeles, Dubai, Singapore, and Thailand, being featured in multiple mainstream publications, and featured on many international networks, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my expertise in some pretty amazing locations around the world. I’ve also been picked up by several international speaking bureaus and associations, which has given me access to diverse audiences and platforms worldwide and seen the gigs coming towards me.

In this article, I’ll outline the key steps for anyone looking to establish themselves as a professional speaker and find speaking opportunities.

1. Master Your Message

The first step to becoming a sought-after speaker is to refine a message that resonates deeply with your audience. Whether it’s a story of overcoming adversity, lessons learned in your industry, or insights into personal growth, your message needs to be clear, compelling, and unique to you. Focus on delivering value—what can your audience take away that will have a meaningful impact on their lives or careers?

2. Build Your Personal Brand

Your personal brand is what sets you apart. Your online presence—whether through social media, a website, or content you share—creates a perception of you as an expert in your field. Invest in professional branding, including headshots and a website that showcases your message, bio, and speaking reel. Consistency is key, so ensure your online platforms reflect the image and values you want to convey.

3. Stop Chasing Big Stages for Social Content

Many aspiring speakers believe that to make it as a speaker—let alone get paid—you need to be on the grand stages, with big production teams, just so you have content for social media. This is a huge misconception. There are countless companies actively seeking speakers and consultants to deliver keynote presentations or workshops to their employees. These internal gigs pay well and often come with opportunities for ongoing work.

If you're focusing purely on “content” for social media and assuming others are making money simply because they’re on big stages, you’re likely missing out. Sure, it may look good, but many speakers on those platforms aren’t getting paid—they’re often speaking for free in exchange for exposure or photos. Yes, they might get some great content for Instagram, but is instagram paying them? Are they constantly being asked to speak because people see them as a FREE RESOURCE.

Many are missing out on paid opportunities.

So, think differently. Go get paid. Look for corporate speaking engagements or training opportunities within organisations where you can deliver real value and get compensated for your time and expertise.

4. Leverage Credentials to Stand Out

To capture the attention of event organisers and international bureaus, you need credentials that showcase your authority. Here are a few strategies that have worked for me:

• Write a Book: Having a book immediately elevates you from being a speaker to an expert. It not only positions you as a thought leader but can also serve as the foundation for your keynote speeches. A bestselling or well-received book is often a gateway to higher-paying and more prestigious speaking engagements.
• Media Features: Being featured in mainstream media adds credibility. Write articles, get featured in publications, or appear on podcasts to show that your insights are respected and valued by recognised platforms.
• Industry Recognition & Awards: If you’ve been recognised by industry bodies or received awards, don’t be shy about showcasing them. They reinforce your authority and commitment to your craft.
• Speaker Bureau Representation: Getting picked up by a reputable speaker bureau gives you access to international networks and speaking opportunities you might not otherwise find. Bureaus like Champions Speakers or similar often serve as a stamp of approval, endorsing you as a trusted voice in your field.

5. Network and Engage

In the speaking industry, relationships matter. Attend industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to connect with event organisers and fellow speakers. Networking can lead to referrals, collaborations, and paid opportunities. You never know who might be looking for the exact message you have to share.

6. Create a Professional Speaker Reel

Your speaker reel is your calling card. It’s essential to have a high-quality video showcasing your speaking style, message, and presence on stage. Event organisers often look at a reel first when considering a speaker, so invest in creating one that highlights your strengths and resonates with your target audience.

7. Pitch Yourself

Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—actively seek them out. Research events and conferences that align with your message, and pitch yourself. Be specific about the value you can bring to their audience. While you may start with smaller local events, your goal should be to gradually move up to larger, paid speaking gigs. Persistence and preparation are key.

The road to becoming a professional speaker takes dedication, but with the right message, credentials, and strategy, you can make a significant impact both locally and internationally. I’ve navigated this journey myself, and my experience speaking on international platforms and working with top-tier bureaus has taught me the importance of staying true to your message while seizing the right opportunities.

If you want to learn more about working with me or how to establish yourself as a professional speaker, visit glennmarsden.com today. Let’s start your journey towards becoming a paid speaker!