Ep 146 The Secret to Getting Speaking Results, FAST

Do you dream of being the keynote speaker at a huge conference? Maybe you just want to get consistently booked at more events. Either way, chances are you’ve searched high and low for tips or hacks on how to become an in-demand (and paid!) speaker.

The good news is: I have the answer for you. The potentially bad news: it’s not the “magic button” answer you might be looking for. However, it is a proven strategy that can fast-track your way to success. In this episode, I’m breaking down what you can do to reach your speaking goals and grow your platform consistently for long-term success.

If you loved this episode and it motivated you to work on more polished presentations, I’d love for you to leave a review on iTunes and tell me about your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories, and tag me @jessicarasdall.

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Resources mentioned in this episode:

There is no “easy button” to fast-track speaking success

I wish there was a magic button you could press or a script you could use to become a successful speaker right away, but there isn’t. However, there is a reliable way to move toward success. I’ve developed this strategy after watching and analyzing other speakers, and really breaking down what allows some of them to succeed faster than others.

We build strategies for students inside our Speaking Strategy Academy, and these resources are available to all our participants. Over the past year, I’ve been watching our students to figure out what works and what doesn’t so we can improve. What I’ve realized is that some of them are seeing success faster than others.

Even with access to the same resources, some students succeed faster. Why? After lots of testing and really digging into the data, I’ve come up with the answer, and I’ve used that information to develop a reliable strategy. If you’re willing to do a little work and push outside your comfort zone, you can fast-track your way to speaking success.

A tried-and-true strategy that works

Are you ready for the “magic pill” to succeed? Here it is: Create your own platform.

That may sound like a big commitment or a lot of work, but it doesn’t have to be. However, it is the difference I’m seeing between people who achieve speaking success quickly and those who are still waiting to reach their goals.

If you want people to reach out to you with opportunities to speak on their stages, you need those people to see you as a speaker already. Don’t wait for someone to hand you a microphone; take the microphone for yourself.

Step up and start owning the role of speaker to your existing audience. By doing this, you show event organizers, podcast hosts, and other potential clients that you already are a speaker with a valuable message. You’re not waiting for a “real” opportunity; you’re already showing up and serving your audience.

What does it mean to create your own platform?

Thinking of building your own platform can seem overwhelming. But I’m not telling you that you need to spend thousands of dollars to host an in-person conference or event. There are many ways to build a platform to reach your audience.

Choose a platform that already exists

What I mean by “building a platform” is simply choosing one place to focus on. Pick a spot where you will consistently show up and deliver valuable content to your audience. By doing this, you get a chance to perfect your message and your delivery. Plus, you have a platform you can use to show organizers and potential clients the kind of value you bring to your audience.

There are countless examples of different platforms. Create a YouTube channel to reach your audience there. If you don’t feel comfortable in front of a camera, you can do a podcast instead. Even social media can be a good way to build your platform; maybe you decide to go all-in on your Instagram or Facebook page.

Test and improve your presentation

Once you’ve chosen your place, it’s time to build your platform. Use your YouTube channel, social account, or podcast to practice and refine your message. See what is working for your audience and what isn’t. Then, you can make changes to perfect your presentation.

You may already be connecting with your audience through social media or another platform. Now you can use that connection as part of your speaking strategy as well.

Practice hosting with a virtual summit

Another thing you may want to consider is trying out a hosting role. If you’re not ready to host an in-person event, consider holding a virtual summit. Hosting a summit not only provides value to your audience, but it also allows other hosts and event organizers to see you as a high-value speaker.

A summit gives you a chance to share your message and present yourself as a successful speaker, host, or educator. You can tailor your image as the type of speaker that other people want to hire for their events, conferences, or podcasts.

What is your message?

Here’s the challenge I want to give you today: figure out your message. Sit down and decide what you want to say and who you want to say it to. Then, come up with a plan for sharing your message with your audience, whether that’s through a YouTube channel, a virtual summit, a podcast, or social media.

Pick a place, and commit to showing up there for your audience. Remember that doing the work to build your platform isn’t just about pursuing success for yourself. You have a valuable message to share with your people, and it isn’t bragging to let them know what you have to offer. If you don’t get your message out there, no one else will.

Your audience is waiting to hear from you, to be inspired by you. Creating the opportunity to speak gives you the chance to serve the people who need to hear your message. Are you ready? Let’s get to work.

SUPPORT AND COMMUNITY AS YOU ELEVATE YOUR SPEAKING

Have you been toying with the idea of hosting a hybrid or virtual event? Are you wondering if these speaking engagements are right for you? What you need is a space to ask questions and connect with other hosts and speakers who have the same questions.

Join our free speaker community if you're ready to link arms with others who are working toward crafting presentations and host events that make an impact and help their business. A little extra accountability never hurts anyone, and that's what you'll find inside the Speak to Scale Community!

If you're not already a member of the academy, we'd love to invite you to apply to join The Speaking Strategy Academy. You'll get instant access to our A-Z speaking training system with video lessons, transcripts, scripts, templates, and more.... access to our live group coaching calls, personalized 1:1 feedback on your work from me, and an opportunity to present your work live in front of our community for hot seat coaching and feedback. What are you waiting for, friend? Apply today!

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