Maybe you are thinking that you do not have something to share or you do not have any ability to speak publicly. The truth is that everyone and anyone can be a public speaker. Why? Because no matter what you have learned or experienced, chances are, you have something to share. And the art public speaking, just anything else, can be honed through dedicated practice and commitment.
Some of the successful speakers I have known were just average Joes and Janes. They did not have any formal education or fancy training; they do not have any drastic life experiences to speak about. But they are successful in their careers as motivational speakers. They get paid quite well and very often. This is proof that radical experiences or educational attainment is not a requirement in entering the speaking world.
However, one thing they had done and still been doing is striving to improve themselves not only as speakers but also as businesspersons. They spend their time acquiring useful information and knowledge about the business while developing their delivery skills through practice and experience. To put it briefly, they dedicate themselves to their careers.
Now, it may sound that public speaking is hard work and there is some work to be done of course. But once you have gained that "AHA" enlightenment about the speaking business and begin thinking more like a marketer, your speaking career will take off
Before you can give a speech, you need an audience. You may have to do a few free speeches to get some experience and to get your name known. Once you start getting paid, with the use of proper follow-up marketing and networking, you will get booked again in no time. The great thing about this business is the more you speak, the more opportunities for new engagements you'll get.
It is almost like branching out in exponential proportions. That is why it is very important to have an excellent public image. The way to this is to have a smart marketing strategy and always make yourself publicly visible as a professional speaker.
Branding is essential to public speakers. Through it, you can become more appealing to your target audience. Your chosen buyers will more likely to buy your services because you have great recall to your niche and you are perceived as an authority in a particular field.
In conclusion, the business of professional public speaking is a combination of two things; the skills of public speaking and the ability to market oneself. Mastering these two seemingly separate aspects will make you successful in your public speaking endeavor.
