So, You Want to Be a Paid Professional Speaker?

First things first: do not spend $15,000 or $25,000 on a group coaching program. Or even an individual coaching program. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay for advice, but beware of programs promising you riches in the speaking business. Yes, you can earn a good living, but unless you’re already a celebrity, making “giant money” is the exception, not the rule. There are way too many “get rich quick” programs playing on the hopes and dreams of aspiring speakers.

Here’s the truth: I’ve been in this business for 16 years. From 2009 to 2020, I had a great lifestyle business as a speaker. But like many, the pandemic hit me hard, crushed my pipeline, and forced me to rebuild. And guess what? Most of those pricey coaching programs have nothing new to teach me. That’s not to say I’ve stopped learning. Far from it. There are always things to learn from working professional speakers and a few legit coaches who over-deliver without overcharging.

Buyer beware. If you want to get into this business, understand that there’s no magic shortcut, no secret hack that’ll make you an overnight success. The people I know who’ve lasted in this business didn’t start by spending big money on coaches; they began by getting in the game.

For me, the best investment was joining the National Speakers Association (NSA). It allowed me to build relationships with people who are actually getting paid to speak. And here’s my secret sauce to the business: I have a lot of “speaker friends” who are regularly hired to speak at conferences. Success leaves clues, and surrounding yourself with the right people can teach you more than any overpriced program ever will.

The Real Path to Becoming a Speaker

I’ve coached a few people who wanted to learn the speaking business. But I’m selective. If someone’s dream is to become the next Tony Robbins or Gary V, and they can’t even tell me the origin story of the person they want to emulate, we’re not a good fit. The truth is, there are no shortcuts in this business. And few will ever become famous.

If you’re serious about becoming a paid professional speaker, you need five things:

1. You Have to Be Good on Stage
   Just because your friends or coworkers say you’re a great speaker doesn’t mean you’re actually good enough to command a fee. Be real with yourself. Can you consistently deliver a message that captivates and inspires an audience?
2. You Need a Decent Video
   Notice I said “decent.” You don’t need to drop $15,000 or $25,000 on a high-end video when you’re starting out. Get something professional when you can afford it, but for now, make sure your video highlights your energy, message, and stage presence.
3. You Need a Website
   Your website doesn’t need to be elaborate, but it does need to clearly showcase who you are, what you do, and why someone should hire you. A good website is your online calling card.
4. You Need a Message People Will Pay For
   Not all topics are created equal. If your message doesn’t solve a problem or address a need, it will be tough to get booked. Do your homework. Research what organizations and conferences are looking for and craft a message that resonates.
5. You Need to Understand the Realities of the Speaking Business
   Don’t look at famous speakers and assume your business will look like theirs. Most speakers build their careers one gig at a time, hustling to get noticed and booked. It’s a grind, but it’s worth it if you’re committed. The business is complicated and complex, and you need to know that.

Get in the Game

I love the speaking business. It’s fun, it inspires people, and it can provide a good income. But it’s not for everyone, and it’s certainly not a quick path to fame and fortune. If you’re serious, start by building your skills, crafting a solid message, and surrounding yourself with people who are succeeding in the business. Learn from them. Invest in relationships. Remember, there’s no substitute for experience and no shortcuts to success.

And one last piece of advice: stay grounded. This is a business built on connections, not fantasies. Make your dreams big, but keep your expectations realistic. If you’re ready to do the work, the stage is waiting for you.

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Thom Singer, CSP, is a professional keynote speaker and the CEO at the Austin Technology Council.