How Speaking Can Grow Your Business

Through my former life as an event planner, I have gotten to know quite a few speakers.  Several of them have become close friends.  One of them even became my coach.  I'll tell you more about her later.  

As I spent more and more time in that community, I discovered that many of them were terrified of public speaking when they started.  Just like me!  So why do it?  I was curious.  I couldn't imagine anything in the world that would get me up in front of a room full of people.  All of them gave me the same answer.  They used speaking to grow their business.  Again, curious, I asked how.  Here are the four key benefits of speaking they shared…

Speaking = Respect

The wonderful thing about speaking to a group is that you have the opportunity to meet your audience in person. Meeting people in person has greater impact than meeting them online.

Even better, the impact of a first meeting is multiplied when people meet you as a speaker at an event they are attending. That’s because most people have a natural respect for speakers. It's powerful social proof that you're smart and have value to share.

Speaking = Authority

When you’re speaking at an event, it gives you instant authority. People are more likely to trust you and take action when you make a suggestion. That’s because they believe you’re a credible source since you’re a speaker.

Speaking = Boosted Visibility

One of the best benefits from speaking is the boosted visibility. Not only will the people attending the conference or event have a chance to see you, so will others even if they never attend. That’s because the event organizer will have handouts, flyers, and other promotional material that they share online and offline. So even if someone doesn’t show up, they may still hear your name and remember you as the expert from that conference.

Another reason that speaking boosts your visibility is because you have the audience’s undivided attention for a few minutes. When people watch your videos online or join into your live stream, they’re usually multi-tasking at the same time. That means you’re not getting their full attention and they’re less likely to act on your advice. But when you speak, you have the full attention of the room.

Speaking = Industry Contacts

The more you speak, the more you’ll get a chance to meet other speakers and event coordinators. As you begin to make friends, your own circle of influence and impact will grow.

Some business owners have made life-changing contacts by simply getting to know other event leaders, topic experts, and speakers. If you see someone you might enjoy connecting with, don’t be afraid to go up and say, “Hello!” You never know where the encounter may lead!

If you're looking to sell products or be hired, making connections through speaking opportunities can't be beat. It’s the best way to position yourself as an expert and get your business out there.

 

Which is why I did what most of them did.  I hired a speaking coach and got busy perfecting my skills.  Her name is Felicia Slattery and I highly recommend her if you want to add speaking to your list of marketing skills.