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Get Paid to Speak (Even If You’re Just Starting Out)

Start getting paid speaking engagements.

1. Clarity: Get Crystal Clear on What You Offer (and Who It’s For)

You can’t get booked (or paid) if no one knows:


  • What you speak about

  • Who you serve

  • Why it matters




Create a brief description of your talk that highlights:

  • The problem you solve

  • The transformation you deliver

  • The outcome for the audience


Example:

“I help mission-driven businesses stop drowning in details and start using events and speaking to ignite their income...and their impact.”


Having a clear message makes it easier for people to refer you, recommend you, and pay you.

 

2. Start Where You Are (Yes, Free Gigs Count)

Let’s be honest—when you're just starting out, some of your early talks might be unpaid. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t valuable.


Free engagements help you:

  • Build your confidence and content

  • Collect photos and videos for your speaker reel

  • Gain testimonials

  • Practice your offers and call to action (CTA)


Free gigs are not a waste of time. They can be a critical part of your long-term Strategic Plan that helps you build credibility and momentum.


Flamin’ Tip: Always treat free gigs like paid ones. Work the Flame and Ember phase for every speaking engagement. Show up on time, bring your best energy, and follow up with the organizer.

 

3. Leverage Your Network

Your next speaking opportunity might already be in your inbox. Reach out to:

  • Past clients

  • Colleagues

  • Event hosts

  • Local organizations or chambers of commerce


Let people know:

“Hey, I’ve been developing a keynote/workshop on your topic. If you know of any organizations or events looking for speakers, I’d love an introduction!”


You’d be surprised how many opportunities come from simply letting people know you’re available.

 

4. Pitch With Confidence

You can wait for invitations to come in - or you can go get them!


Here’s what to include in a simple speaker pitch email:

  • Brief intro (who you are + what you speak on)

  • Why it’s relevant to their audience

  • A link to learn more (speaker page, one-sheet, video)

  • A call to action (“Would you be open to a quick call to explore this?”)

 

5. Package Your Speaking Professionally

Even if you’re new, you can look professional with the right tools:


  • A one-sheet or speaker page with your bio, topics, and testimonials

  • A basic intro reel or video of you speaking

  • A downloadable rate sheet or pricing tiers if you’re ready to pitch paid offers


You don’t need a massive portfolio to look polished—you need clarity and consistency.

 

6. Start Small, Grow Fast

You don’t have to wait for a TEDx stage or to be published to start getting paid. Some great places to start:

  • Local business groups or associations

  • Industry meetups or conferences

  • Online summits and virtual panels

  • Podcasts and livestream events

  • Hosting your own free or low-ticket workshops


Every stage is a stepping stone to the next one.

 

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be famous, have a bestselling book, or speak to thousands to get paid.


You need:

  • A clear message

  • A strategic approach

  • A willingness to start small and be consistent


Every speaker starts somewhere. Your challenge is to start—today.


Have more questions? Need support to create a strategic plan to meet your unique business and goals? Let’s talk. I help mission-driven entrepreneurs build profitable speaking strategies that get them in front of the right people—without drowning in details.


Book your free call here:



 

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