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How To Start A Speaking Business: The Ultimate Guide

Taylorr Payne

Ever wondered how you can take your passion for public speaking and turn it into profit? Maybe you’ve already spoken in the past and are looking to turn it into a full-time gig. All things considered, you’re here because you’re thinking about starting a speaking business. However, regardless of your speaking experience, doing so is a complex process. From balancing the books to balancing your travel plans, it’s safe to say that speaking professionally isn’t for the faint of heart. 

Thankfully, the SpeakerFlow team and I have your back. In this guide to starting a speaking business, we’ll cover the process of getting started. Although it’s not entirely comprehensive, as many of the legal processes described here will depending on your location, rest assured that by the end of this, you’ll know enough to hit the ground running. Please note that if you are a speaker most often represented by a college or university as your employer, this isn’t the guide for you. In the interest of clarity, this handbook is primarily meant for speakers intending to represent themselves.

Before we begin, below are the primary topics we’ll break down in this guide. In addition to covering foundational tasks, we’ll also touch on sales, marketing, and operations. That way, even if you can’t begin your speaking business immediately, you’ll know what you can do in the meantime. 👍

Defining Your Promise Statement

Speaking business sales tools, speaking business operations tools, setup for your speaking business.

Prior to being known as a speaker and bringing in speaking inquiries from event planners, there are some initial setup tasks to knock out. As with any business, some of these tasks are a little more stressful, while others are nothing but fun. Nethertheless, getting the legalities and setup out of the way is your best bet. 

Registering Your Speaking Business

First and foremost, your speaking business has to be exactly that: a business. Without a legal record, you are, in many cases, much less likely to be hired. This is especially true in a corporate setting. Unsurprisingly, the main reason for this is the tax concerns that come with accepting payment and not recording it as income. Registering your speaking business before beginning any outreach dispels those concerns immediately. In short, that means more event planners saying, “This speaker looks perfect for us”. 

To register your speaking business, the process varies by location. In the United States, the initial setup of your business involves registering with federal, state, and local agencies for small businesses, as described in this handy guide from the U.S. Small Business Administration. These agencies include the Internal Revenue Service and the government for your state as well as your city government (for licenses and permits). It’s also a good idea, when you register, to double check your federal and state requirements for business insurance and business taxes . After all, the last thing you want is a tremendously successful speaking business that gets unexpectedly slammed with taxes at the end of the year. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, the website for the U.S. government’s guide to starting your own business is a great place to get started. Not only does it break down each of the processes outlined above. It also provides information regarding businesses owned by minorities or veterans, if either of those applies to your speaking business. For the sake of time, we can’t cover in detail the steps to start a business outside of the United States. That said, below are a few links to help you get started, if you’re reading this overseas. 🙂

• United Kingdom
• New Zealand

Developing a Personal Brand

Next up is the front end of your speaking business: your personal brand. How do you want event planners to perceive you when they visit your website? What are five words you would use to describe your brand? What colors do you feel represent you well? These are just a few of the questions to ask yourself as you’re developing your brand. Then, according to our in-house graphic designer, the next step is to choose fonts and colors that best represent those words and themes. You can read more about her process in our Resources page ’s speaker branding guide. However, in short, it goes something like this: Choose colors, then fonts, then a logo, then an icon. 

Choosing Brand Colors

First, choosing your brand’s colors begins with the connotations most commonly applied to each color. These include “powerful” or “confident” for red and “calm” or “trustworthy” for blue. 99 Designs has a stellar guide for choosing your brand color , if you’re new to color theory in the first place. From there, after you’ve chosen the basic color you want to represent your brand, you’ll want to choose three or four others to compliment it. Although there are several tips and tricks to choosing appropriate secondary colors, the primary goal is to choose one or two that are colorful (like your main color) and one or two that are more neutral. That said, as a general rule, your final color palette should include five colors total, at most. For inspiration, check out tools like Canva’s color palette generator or the collection at ColorPalettes.net . 

Choosing Brand Fonts

Likewise, for the second step in the process, choosing a font involves the same concern for others’ connotations. Sans serif fonts like that in the image on the right, for example, can be used to suggest a more modern brand than serif fonts. In the same way, more intricate or serif fonts can convey a sense of tradition or classicism. In the end, your main goal is to stay away from overused fonts, such as Impact, Comic Sans, Bradley Hand, and Papyrus. Remember, you want to be recalled for your skill and distinction in the speaking space, not how outrageous your font is. Canva’s guide to choosing a font is an easy stepping stone, if you’re not sure which fonts are on this list. 

Designing Your Logo and Icon

Finally, after choosing colors and fonts, the next steps are to develop your logo and icon. Although it’s optional, most brands have adopted icons in recent years for a number of reasons . These include the ease with which people can remember an image and the ability to use their icon for company social media profiles. In the same way, your speaking business should also be memorable and digitally accessible. Keep these goals in mind as you are either designing your own logo or working with a graphic designer. For example, looking at the image on the left, the logo on the right is large and bulky, making it ill-suited to the navigation bar of a website or social media. On the other hand, the one on the left is clean-cut, distinctive, and memorable. Your speaking business should be each of those things, too. 

That said, if you’re unsure where to start and don’t want to design your own logo and icon, freelancing platforms like 99 Designs , Fiverr , and Upwork are reliable and affordable places to check out. Each of these sites employ graphic designers to take the results of those initial questions and turn them into brands for you. That way, you can worry about the rest of the steps to building a speaking business and rest assured that your brand is in good hands. 

Building a Website

The fourth step in setting up your speaking business can be a huge help if you do it well. I’m talking about your speaker website. First, your website should show site visitors that you are an expert in addition to being a speaker. This means plenty of evidence of your authority in your niche and your speaking skills. For established speaking businesses, this includes logos from past clients, testimonials, and social proof from your fans or past speech attendees. With a new speaking business, if you have a few testimonials, just work with what you have and build as you go. Keep your sizzle reel front and center – always. Your primary goal, when it comes to providing proof, is to show trust from other clients and how awesome you are, so quality is better than quantity. 🙂

Second, your website’s homepage should demonstrate who you are, who you serve, and how to contact you. Websites like those for Jacob Green and Katrina Cravy are beautiful examples of what an ideal speaker website looks like. The homepages of both sites show past clients, present their sizzle reel immediately, and have a clear call-to-action button in the navigation bar. You can also schedule a call with them directly through their websites. 

This brings me to the last thing to keep in mind when designing your speaking business website: The more convenient it is to contact you, the more likely someone is to do so. On average, a visitor to your website will have made a decision as to whether or not they are interested within 50 milliseconds. That gives you 50 milliseconds to create a good first impression. So, to summarize, show your value and skill, give an easy way to contact you, and keep things clear and concise. 

Finally, the last piece to setting up your speaking business is your speaking business’s mission, vision, and core values. Although they seem a bit superfluous when it comes to a speaking business, outlining these aspects to your company shows not only your attention to detail. It also shows your willingness to adapt and make adjustments as you grow, so you are always trying to be the optimum version of yourself, as a speaker, business owner, and human being. Plus, what conveys trustworthiness to event planners more than that? 

First, your mission statement is a succinct description of what you and your speaking business do. Second, your vision statement is a description of your ideal vision of your company. Third, your core values are the principles by which you live up to your mission and vision. For example, at SpeakerFlow, our mission is “We combine cutting-edge technology with sales, marketing, and operations expertise to create the optimal business experience for professional speakers” and our vision is “The company that we see is the singular source of holistic evolution for thought leaders and their businesses.” In short, the vision is who we want to be, the mission is how we are going to get there, and the core values are our basic “rules of conduct”. For a breakdown of these three components, check out our “ Who We Are ” page. 

That said, in the speaking industry, speaker coach Jane Atkinson lumps these pieces together to create a “promise statement”. This statement defines what you will provide for your clients, such as Jane’s statement “Catapult Your Speaking Business”. To create your own promise statement, check out Jane’s guide for new speaking business owners. Then, be sure you add your new promise statement to your website. 🙌

The Basics of Sales for Speakers

Now that you have your speaking business set up, let’s talk about bringing in some clients! There are a ton of ins and out to selling in the speaking industry. Here, we’re going to start with just a few of the basic tips and tricks, including where to find leads, how to keep them organized, and how to get them to book you for their upcoming gig. 

Finding Speaking Leads

To start, before you can sell, you need to find leads in the first place. Leads for your speaking business can be found in a variety of places including association directories, lead generation systems, and educational databases. Depending on your focus industry(ies), one of these sources may be more appropriate than others. For example, if you are a retired professor who speaks about women in STEM fields, colleges and universities are ideal for two reasons. First, you already have the experience and credentials to show educational event planners you are trustworthy. Second, the list of educational institutions is huge, so the more you have on your roster, the easier it will be to sell to others. Keep these two questions in mind as you look for lead sources: “Where do I already have experience?” and “Where can my speaking experience compound?”

For some industry-specific guides to finding speaking gigs, check out any of our three guides below. If your industry or focus isn’t shown here, feel free to drop us a line, too! We’re always looking for ways to provide speakers with more top-notch information: 

• #1: “ How Do I Become A Public Speaker At Churches? ”
• #2: “ How Do I Become A Public Speaker At Colleges & Universities? ”
• #3: “ How Do I Become A Public Speaker In Schools? ”

Ultimately, your leads can come from multiple sources, including the ones mentioned above, personal referrals, speakers bureaus, and speakers associations. However, as you’re starting your speaking business, the most important things to remember are that you shouldn’t just rely on referrals (in other words, learn to love sales) and focus on the avenues that are bringing you gigs. Don’t get caught up in the many avenues that could bring you leads. Focus on where you’re already succeeding and follow that trail. 

Managing Speaking Leads

So, once you have leads, what do you do? To put it simply, the key to managing speaking leads is having a place to track them. Ideally, you’re able to track all of your information in a single tool, and you can set reminders within it. These reminders are intended to ensure you follow up with each lead until they either turn into a sale or unsubscribe from communication. Additionally, having a system for tracking your leads also allows you to collect information about them. If you applied to a 2019 conference, for example, and they told you “No,” a lead system would allow you to retain that contact and organization information. Then, in 2020, you can apply for their next event, fully prepared with who they are, what they need, and why they should hire you. The basic sales process looks something like the image on the right. 

Personally, we at SpeakerFlow (and many established speakers) recommend a customer relationship management system, or CRM, for tracking leads. CRMs are designed to give you a single place to track all of your contact, lead, and event information and set reminders related to it. Many CRMs also integrate with other tools, such as project management or invoicing software. Altogether, this means a network of tools working together to facilitate your sales process. We’ll talk more about CRMs in a bit, but the main point is that if you don’t have one already, you should start looking. For more information, check out our beginner’s guide to CRMs for professional speakers. 

Sales Data to Track

One of the other advantages to having a CRM – or any sales system, really – is the data it provides. By tracking and analyzing your sales data, you can quickly and accurately see where your leads are coming from, who is referring you, and which sales avenues aren’t worth pursuing any longer. At the very least, the most important sales metrics to track are the gigs you won and lost and their respective industries. Remember how I mentioned earlier in the sales section that focusing on a single sales avenue is good, as you’re getting started? Tracking sales data allows you to do so with confidence. If you can see in which industries you’re consistently getting booked, you can more effectively look for new leads in those industries. In the end, this saves you time spent looking for leads and chasing prospects, and it leads to more revenue. Win win! 

If you don’t have any data-related tools in place, there are a few awesome ones you can use right off the bat. First, as we mentioned already, is your CRM. Most CRMs have built-in reporting, so that as long as you have your leads in the CRM, it can auto-generate the analytics for you. In the next section, we’ll go over a few tech tools, in addition to a CRM, that can help maximize your sales process. 

Now, you may be thinking that we have unloaded a ton of information on you at this point, and you’re right! The good news is that you don’t have to handle all of the sales processes alone, not when there is technology at hand to do it for you. Below are a few of our go-to systems and tech for optimizing speaker sales and our best practices for using them. 

Speaker Intel Engine

First on the list of sales systems is a proven favorite, the Speaker Intel Engine . Created by speaker and pro salesman Sam Richter in early 2019, the Intel Engine functions as an overlay to Google searches. This means that it allows you to search using complex Boolean searches with a few simple clicks. As a result, using the Intel Engine, you’re given access to 100% of Google search results, compared to the 4% you see when you do a standard search. Additionally, because it was designed specifically for speakers, the Intel Engine also enables you to search for event planners, associations, even your competitors. In short, it gives you a quick and easy way to find information that is hyper-relevant to your speaking business. No wasted time. No wasted money. Just qualified leads and quality information. 

SpeakerFlow CRM & Operating System

Another awesome tool launched in 2019 is our tool, the SpeakerFlow operating system . We mentioned before that a CRM is a critical part of a speaking business for 7-figure speakers. However, until now, there wasn’t a high-quality option on the market, at least not one that was designed with speakers in mind. Now,, we’re happy to say that problem has been solved. With modules to track leads and contacts, in-app project and event management software, and extensive customization for speakers, it’s a steal for the cost. At only $45 per user per month, there isn’t a single CRM out there that gives you as many features for the price. Below are just a few of our favorites: 

• Module for eSpeakers
• Robust automation tools
• 5 TB of free cloud storage (with built-in analytics!)
• In-app esignatures
• Form building software for your website 
• Robust mobile app

Even more important is the fact that $45 covers an entire suite of apps along with the CRM. These include apps for email marketing, esignatures, file storage, and more. This allows you to manage your speaking business in a single place, all for a single monthly fee.  Like the Intel Engine, the SpeakerFlow operating system has a ton of additional features I can’t cover here, just for the sake of time. However, if you’d like to see more, feel free to book a demo with us , and we can show you around personally. 👍

CRM-Specific Features

That said, regardless of the CRM you choose, there are tons of CRM features to note. For example, did you know your account generally comes with automation, lead scoring, and productivity? For starters, automation can include simple processes, such as tracking emails, to more complex actions, like email campaigns. Each of these pieces fit into your sales cycle so that you can off-load some of the mindless tasks, as shown on the right. As a solopreneur, this is especially useful because you are managing many parts of a business simultaneously.

The next piece of the puzzle is lead scoring. We mentioned previously that the basic speaker sales process involves qualifying and disqualifying leads. This can be done immediately, based on an event planner’s response, such as a prompt “No thanks.” However, for less obvious cases, many CRMs also provide a lead scoring mechanism that lets you assign contacts in your account a higher score based on their actions. Someone just subscribed to your newsletter? They get a point. Now they viewed the “Contact Us” form on your website? Another point. All in all, the more points a given contact has, the more likely they are to be interested (i.e. you should reach out to them personally). 

The last piece, productivity features, are intended to streamline the processes that you can’t automate. These may include creation of tasks, email or text reminders for especially important tasks, or a calendar, so you can see your appointments and how they correspond to different contacts in your account. To keep things short and sweet, these features might not be flashy but, like automation and lead scoring, they can save you countless hours. Ultimately, that means more time on the phone with event planners or on the stage with clients. 

VoIP Dialing Software

Last but not least of the speaking business sales tools is “Voice over Internet Protocol” dialers, or VoIP dialers. As defined by the Federal Communications Commission , VoIP is “technology that allows you to make voice calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of a regular (or analog) phone line”. In short, if you don’t want to use your personal phone number for sales calls, VoIP dialers are an alternative. Additionally, many dialers integrate with CRMs, so you can track sales calls within your contact, lead, or event records. Our SpeakerFlow sales gurus, Taylorr and Austin, have used a ton of VoIP options in the past and recommend them not only for the ease of use, but also for your own growth. To hear Taylorr say it, “With call recordings, you can see what sales techniques worked and which didn’t, making you a better salesperson and your speaking business more profitable”. 

Among the SpeakerFlow team, our favorite VoIP dialers are Kixie and Dialpad . Of the two apps, Dialpad is the more expensive of the two at $20/month compared to Kixie at $15/month , although both offer similar features for the price. Because of this, we generally recommend Kixie if you’re a new speaking business or a solopreneur. Furthermore, Kixie integrates flawlessly with the aforementioned SpeakerFlow CRM. What’s not to love about that? 

For a thorough breakdown of selling as a professional speaker, check out our ultimate guide to getting speaking gigs . 👍

The Basics of Operations for Speakers

At this point, we’ve covered how to setup your speaking business and bring more people to it, but what are the most effective ways to organize it? This section will cover the basics of business operations in the speaking industry as well as some tips from our head of operations, Austin Grammon . As always, we’ll also outline our favorite organizational technology and how you can implement it on your own. 

Organizing Your Speaking Business Information

Staying organized in your speaking business poses a lot of the same problems we saw with sales. More than anything, the largest obstacle to organization is the lack of a consistent process for systemizing your company’s information. In light of this, there are a few general rules we follow on the back end of SpeakerFlow to stay on target. 

First, when you have an important file, take a minute to upload it to your storage platform of choice at the time. Whether you use Google Drive , Dropbox , or OneDrive , taking care of it at the time means time saved later. Once you’re in the habit of doing this, you’ll also notice that you lose materials less and less. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: if you have your shit together, more people will want to hire you. More organization on the back end of your speaking business means smoother sailing on the front end. Plain and simple. 

Second, we are consistent in our organizational tools. As a team, we all use Google Drive for storage and we store everything there. Everything . As a new speaker, this will become increasingly important as you add to your team. It’s also important when you are hiring independent contractors. For example, if you hire a graphic designer to create a new one-sheet for you, share a Google Drive folder with them and instruct them to upload the final design there when it’s completed. 

This brings me to our last organizational rule of thumb: hold everyone to the same standards. As your speaking business grows, you are the leader of the pack. So, the more organized you can be from the beginning, the more easily your team members can take tasks off your plate and the smoother your operations will be. 

Automating Your Processes

The second key to successful speaking business operations is automation. Although we already discussed sales automation, there are a host of tools to help you automate operations, too. These include notifications for new calendar events and subscriptions to your newsletter and updates to your financial records. One of our tried and true favorites is Zapier . If you haven’t heard of it, Zapier is basically an app for connecting apps, even if they don’t natively integrate. 

Looking at the back end of SpeakerFlow once again, we use Zapier for a number of things. From notifications about new discovery calls to tracking for our affiliate program , so we can issue commission. On a daily basis, this saves us hundreds of emails and app notifications and countless hours of manual data entry. It also means that, although we could probably use an assistant, we’ve been able to thrive without one. All in all, our automations look something like the image on the right. Although it looks complicated at first, rest assured that the same efficiency is possible in your business, too. 

Managing Booked Events

Besides automation and organization, operations also means managing events. By “events,” I mean speaking gigs as well as daily appointments. Starting with speaking gigs, the primary goal is similar to that of staying organized. In short, you want to create a consistent process so every time you’re hired, you know what information to provide, what info you need, and what your next steps are. Generally, we recommend building a “For Event Planners” page on your website and a folder for it in your cloud storage platform. Both the page and the folder should include all information relevant to events, including headshots, audio/visual requirements, and your speaker biography. The idea is to give you a single place to store everything for event planners. That way, when they hire you, you can say, “Here is a link to a folder, which has everything you need”. 

As for events in your day-to-day schedule, we recommend adding an auto-scheduler to your website or, at the very least, in your sales emails. These platforms allow people to see your schedule and book an appointment with you when it’s convenient for both of you. You control your availability settings and the information included in the scheduling form. Ultimately, this allows people to book meetings with you and get automatic reminders without either of you having to lift a finger. Plus, you don’t have to have the back-and-forth availability conversation! 

We’ll go over a few software options for event management in a bit, for both speaking gigs and daily appointments. 

Operations Data to Track

But, before we jump into operations tools, let’s talk data again. When it comes to your speaking business operations, the most important data to track is obvious: revenue. Besides the gig-related information we recommended tracking in the “Sales” section, you also need to track the amount of money going out of your speaking business. It seems like a no-brainer, but for many speaking businesses this is still a problem. Unsurprisingly, this is especially true when it comes to technology. 

Let’s say you signed up for a trial of a CRM in the past and it asked you to input a credit card number, even though you were getting two weeks for free. Then, you had three gigs in a row and a family emergency. By the time those two weeks were up, you hadn’t even looked at your CRM, but you were billed anyway. Sound familiar? 

This happens over and over for speakers and many don’t even know how many tools they are paying for. To solve this, our general rules are, first, don’t sign up for a free trial when it also asks for a credit card. That’s just a recipe for unintended costs. Second, when you sign up for a new tool, record it in a document or project manager. The place you track it doesn’t matter – Just be sure you have a list somewhere of everything you’re paying for. That way, if you’re not sure of the cost for a tool or if you’re trying to cut costs, you have a reliable source of information. 

Now, for the part of speaking business operations I’ve been waiting for: the tools and technology. Needless to say, there are plenty of alternatives to the ones covered below. As with setup and sales tools, if you already have reliable tools that take the place of those below, don’t worry about it! No need to switch to our recommendations if you already have something working for you. 😊

A relatively well known piece of speaker tech that we haven’t mentioned so far is eSpeakers . Although eSpeakers can also be used for sales processes, one of the greatest features about it is their event management platform, Event CX. Built to make event management stress-free for speakers and event planners, this platform includes a calendar, meeting planner database, and a profile in the eSpeakers bureau. It also comes with task checklists, so you can prepare for gigs without worrying that you’ve missed something. Once again, when it comes to managing speaking gigs, the more organized you can be, the more gigs you can handle each year. In other words, the more organized you are, the more revenue rolls in. 

The text tech tip we have is one we’ve touched on a few times already: a project management system. Similarly to a CRM, the purpose of a project manager is organization. However, where a CRM is used primarily for sales, a project management system is for operations. Want a way to track your marketing projects? How about your content calendar for your blogs? Thinking about your financial tracking, too? All of these things can be tracked within a project management system, so you have a convenient place to double check that your speaking business is on target. From finances to company problems and solutions, it’s an easy way to be sure you’re working on your speaking business, not just in it. 

Our favorite project management system is Asana , for both the value and the extensive feature set. Besides the convenient organizational features it provides, it also comes with animations to liven up the process. Additionally, with different project layouts, free templates, and notifications, it takes minutes to get started and learn the system from A-Z. Plus, it starts free! That way, if you’re just starting your speaking business, you can save some money and upgrade as your team does.

Another top organizational tool is G Suite . A common choice for cloud storage, G Suite is awesome for many reasons. First, at less than $10/month , it’s incredibly affordable, even if you’re a one-man show. Second, it’s one of the most intuitive tools out there, when it comes to cloud storage. Even if you’re not terribly confident in your tech knowledge, you can master G Suite without a problem. Finally, in addition to being a convenient source of internal company organization, it’s also awesome when it comes to sharing information. Remember how I mentioned earlier, “The idea is to give you a single place to store everything for event planners. That way, when they hire you, you can say, ‘Here is a link to a folder, which has everything you need’”? G Suite is that place to store everything. Affordable, convenient, and incredibly useful – What more can you ask for?

Better Proposals

Fourth in our list of speaking business operations tools is Better Proposals . Intended to streamline the proposal-sending process, this software ties in closely to the aforementioned sales systems. After you’ve closed a sale and received a verbal “yes” from an event planner, you still need a legal contract with them. That’s where Better Proposals comes in. 

With templates included, the option to add your own branding information, and an awesome support team, you can create and send a proposal in less than a minute. As a bonus, event planners can also pay through your Better Proposals portal. So, if you’re on the road and emailing event planners while you’re at your hotel, you can close them all like a pro. No more missed opportunities because you’re on the road – just picture-perfect business operations. 

Last but not least of our recommended operations tools is Calendly . Created for large and small businesses alike, Calendly is an auto-scheduler, like we covered earlier. As with most auto-schedulers, you can connect your Calendly page to your website, so people can schedule a call as they browse your site. On the other hand, you can also share your Calendly link when you email someone. That way, they can jump right to your calendar and book a call with a few quick clicks. Additionally, you create different events within Calendly for different purposes, each of which has its own specific link. For example, if you want to keep your speaking client and consulting client meetings separated, you can create a Calendly event for each option. From there, when you connect your Calendly page to your Google or Outlook Calendar, you can see which events correspond to which group. 

Oh, and did I mention how affordable it is? Of the tools in this section, Calendly and Asana are the most useful on a day-to-day basis, and they’re both free. 🙌

The Basics of Marketing for Speakers

Now, to the fourth and final section of this massive guide: marketing for your speaking business. It goes without saying, but marketing is the third key piece of running a speaking business, along with sales and operations. With high-quality, well thought-out marketing efforts, not only can you attract people to your speaking business and your brand. You can also demonstrate your expertise outside of speaking. 

Optimizing Your Website

The first way in which you can build your marketing efforts is your speaker website. Way back at the beginning, we walked through the key features of a good speaker website. However, did you know that there are also tips and tricks to bring people to your site in the first place? The first of these tricks is Search Engine Optimization, or SEO. To put it simply, SEO is the perfection of your site or other digital content so that it ranks higher in a Google search. 

Although there are a ton of factors that contribute to good SEO, the primary ones to worry about, when it comes to your speaker website, are speed, design, and content. Ideally, your site should load in less than 3 seconds, mainly in order to keep people engaged. In fact, on average, people will decide whether or not to continue scrolling within 55 milliseconds. That means that the faster your site loads and the more engaging it is, the better your chance to keep the visitor’s attention. That brings me to design. As a web developer and designer myself, I cannot stress enough that design is critical. Keeping your brand consistent on your website and following modern design practices is a sure way to bring and retain web traffic. Kindra Hall and Mel Robbins have fantastic websites, in both of these regards, for example. 

Finally, include high-quality content throughout your site. This includes, blogs, guides, and downloadable content that visitors can take when they leave your site. In terms of SEO, the most important of these is your blog, which we’ll discuss in more detail below.

Tips for High-Quality Content

You’ve probably already heard from one business owner or another how writing blogs helped bring more attention to their business. By now, almost everyone knows that you should have a blog, but how do you start from nothing? First and foremost, each blog should be at least 1,500 words and focused on a single word or phrase. This blog, for example, uses the phrase “speaking business”. Of our word count, “speaking business” makes up at least 1% of the text, as should your focus keyword or phrase. Your blog should also break up the text with headings to make it easier for the reader to digest. Additionally, graphics and images can be used to make these text breaks visually engaging and memorable. 

If you are trying to write a blog that out-ranks another blog in the Google search for your keyword, there are a few questions to keep in mind. These include: 

• Is my blog longer than theirs and more thorough?
• Does my blog use my focus keyword at least 1% of the time? 
• Do I have additional images and/or infographics, compared to my competitor? 

A “yes” to each of these questions, combined with more fine-tuned blog writing techniques, is guaranteed to put your new blog in a Google search. Plus, the more blogs you write, the easier it will get. For the full checklist for writing a killer blog, check out our “Resources” page and look for our “30 Point Blog Checklist”. 👍

Building Your Social Presence

Besides blogs, another great way to bring attention to your speaking business is through social media. It’s no secret that some of today’s biggest celebrities have grown their business to a new income bracket simply by maintaining a social presence. The same potential exists for speakers in their businesses, provided you follow a few key rules. 

First, be diverse in what and where you post. Include videos, try out Instagram Stories , share memes, and get serious once and awhile. Being diverse in your posts will keep people from getting bored. Plus, giving someone a laugh is a sure way to engage them moving forward. Second, be social. Interact with other speakers and business owners you admire, and reply to comments on your own posts. Showing people you’re a human behind your phone and not a faceless company will always win you more followers and cheerleaders. 

That brings me to the biggest rule of all on social media: Be yourself! Whatever you share or comment, make sure that it is actually something you would say. At the end of the day, staying true to yourself will make it easier to come up with social content and your candidness will be admired – I guarantee it. 

If you’re unsure where to start, blogs from social scheduling tools like Sprout , Later , and Hootsuite are great for finding info you can implement now, even if you’re starting from scratch.

Marketing Data to Track

Now, as with sales and operations, making data driven decisions in marketing is of the utmost importance. More than anything, that means tracking the growth of your business. Regarding your website, this means the number of visitors to your site each month, the amount of time they spend on your site, and how many pages are viewed in an average visit. Your ultimate goal, when looking at website data, is to see where people are going and make adjustments so that the other pages or areas of your site follow suit. 

The same is true when it comes to social media analytics. How many followers have I gained this week? Are my followers are in the speaking industry and, if so, how many? How many are event planners? All of your social media data will be much more fast-paced, but the idea remains the same. Look at what you are doing that is working on social media and focus on that. If videos are getting you more traffic than posting pictures of you on stage, invest in videos more. If you are gaining followers in a certain industry, take the time to follow or tag prominent members in that industry. The more you look at what is giving you traction and follow those trails, the more successful your marketing efforts – from website to social media – will be successful. 

Speaking Business Marketing Tools

As always, a SpeakerFlow blog wouldn’t be complete without a list of tech tools to take some of the work off your plate. Below are three of our favorite systems for mastering your marketing processes. 

Google Analytics

Far and away, one of the most useful and consistently updated marketing tools out there is Google Analytics . As a marketing expert myself, I rely on Google Analytics every day for everything from web performance to brand visibility. Within the Google Analytics dashboard, I can see not only where my leads are coming from but also which pages on my website they’re visiting the most. I can also see which blogs get the most attention and if people are finding the SpeakerFlow site from unconventional sources. For example, in spring 2019, we appeared on a podcast with Jane Atkinson, the creator of the “promise statement” we covered earlier. Now, because of that, people are visiting our site after first visiting hers. 

As a speaker, insights like this are especially important if you have collateral to sell, such as a book, for example. By pinpointing which blogs are working and where people are finding you, you can target those areas in multiple ways. Besides personally contacting people in those areas, if you ever decide to run paid ads for your collateral, you know how to target them. Better targeting means more collateral and more gigs sold, in the long run. Win win!

Another great marketing tool, especially when it comes to branding, is Canva . Besides being available for free, Canva is an amazing tool for countless reasons. For starters, it comes with pre-sized layouts for everything from brochures to business cards. That way, if you don’t have the money to hire a graphic designer right off the bat, you can do it yourself. Additionally, for each layout, there are dozens of templates . Even if you have no design skills, these ensure your design looks professional and on-brand, so you can share the finished product with confidence. 

Aside from print materials, Canva’s also excellent for digital content. Our in-house graphic designer uses it for quick and easy production of social media posts. For her, this is helpful because she handles many projects at once, so saving time is crucial. Likewise, in your speaking business, you can save time and get a beautiful result, completely free. 

Last but not least of our marketing tools is Buffer . As with all social media automators, Buffer allows you to take those gorgeous social media posts you made in Canva and pre-post them. If you’re between gigs, this might not be a huge concern. However, when you’re on the road, using a social scheduler allows you to plan it all ahead of time. That way, once your gig is over, you can go back to your hotel and rest easy, since it’s still posting for you in the background. 

Jumping back to our graphic designer at SpeakerFlow, who also manages our social accounts, Buffer is also great if you dislike social posting. As for our designer, for many speakers, being social isn’t top priority, simply because they don’t like it. Nevertheless, in this day and age, building a social presence is a guaranteed way to build your speaking business. So, if you want to take care of your social posting once a week and get it over with, a social scheduler like Buffer is definitely the solution. 

Well, that brings us to the end of this mega-guide for starting your speaking business! Thank you for sticking with me this far. Hopefully, with these tips and tricks in mind, you have more confidence to take your business to the next level. 😊

For more insider speaking business information, check out our companion blog, “ How To Get Speaking Gigs: The Ultimate Guide ”. 

Additionally, the vast majority of the tools and systems described in guide can be managed using the SpeakerFlow CRM. Book a free demo with us to learn more about it and see how you can run your speaking business almost entirely out of a single place!

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Can you do a bullet point list of the cost to set up a career as a public speaker? I can think of a few, the cost to build a website, run advertising campaigns on social media, hiring a publicist and more. But I’d like to hear from someone that is a successful public speaker, what the start up costs are and what they pay for. Google so far has 0 articles about that specific topic

Hey, Trever – Great question. 👌 There aren’t specific numbers listed anywhere because every speaking business is different, so the cost range is HUGE. Websites, for example, can cost anywhere from $0 to upwards of $20,000, depending on the features you want and the company/individual you hire to build it for you. Another example is CRMs, which can cost anywhere from $0/month to several hundred dollars/month.

Ultimately, the starting cost comes down to your budget and what tools/systems you need to get off the ground. Generally, we recommend ones that fit your goals and budget for the time being, then strategize additional ways to upgrade them as your speaking business grows. For more detailed strategy and guidance, ask for Taylorr and Austin here . 👍

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How to Start a Public Speaking Business

Main Sections In This Post Steps to Starting a Public Speaking Business Points to Consider Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to starting a public speaking business.

In addition, we will give you an overview of what you can expect from operating a public speaking business and help you make better decisions and gain clarity.

There is an abundance of information available to explore. If you like this post, consider sharing it with others and bookmarking it for future reference.

Let’s get started with the steps.

The Steps to Start Your Public Speaking Business

Below are the steps to starting a public speaking business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

• An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
• Public Speaking Business Overview
• Researching Your Public Speaking Business
• Looking Startup and Operating Costs
• Creating Your Mission Statement
• Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Choose a Public Speaking Business Name
• Register Your Company
• Create Your Corporate Identity
• Writing a Business Plan
• Banking Considerations
• Getting the Funds for Your Operation
• Software Setup
• Business Insurance Considerations
• Supplier and Service Provider Considerations
• Setting Your Prices
• Physical Setup
• Creating a Website
• Hiring Employees
• Getting Customers Through the Door

1. An Overview of  Business Ownership

The more you know what to expect, the better your decisions will be and the fewer surprises you’ll encounter.

Before starting your public speaking business, there are many points to consider. The following link provides information to help you make the right decisions.

See our page on Critical Points to Consider before starting your business.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Public Speaking Business

Next, let’s discuss the issues that will give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running a public speaking business.

In this step, we will be looking at the following sections:

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Public Speaking Business b.) Public Speaking Business Models c.) Challenges You Could Face When Starting and Operating a Public Speaking Business

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Public Speaking Business

A public speaking business revolves around offering speaking services by individuals who are skilled in engaging and informing an audience on specific topics.

This can range from keynote speeches at conferences to motivational talks at corporate events.

The primary goal is to inform, entertain, or motivate audiences using well-crafted speeches and presentations.

These businesses often involve a single speaker or a team of speakers who specialize in various subjects, including personal development, business strategies, leadership, and industry-specific knowledge.

Daily Operations in a Public Speaking Business

• Client Interaction and Networking : Daily tasks include communicating with current and potential clients to discuss speaking opportunities. Networking plays a critical role in expanding client bases and sourcing new gigs.
• Content Development : Speakers spend considerable time researching and developing content tailored to their audience’s needs. This includes crafting speeches, creating presentations, and sometimes preparing handouts.
• Marketing and Promotion : Essential activities involve marketing the speaker’s expertise to target audiences. This could be through social media, blogs, newsletters, or public appearances on platforms like podcasts or webinars.
• Event Preparation : Before any speaking engagement, logistical preparations such as travel arrangements, event schedules, and technical setups need to be addressed. Speakers often rehearse extensively to refine their delivery.
• Administrative Tasks : Running a public speaking business also requires managing bookings, handling invoices and payments, and maintaining records. These administrative duties ensure the business operates smoothly and professionally.
• Feedback and Evaluation : After events, collecting feedback from the audience and the client is crucial for growth and improvement. Analyzing this feedback helps refine future presentations and enhance overall effectiveness.

These tasks, combined, ensure the successful operation of a public speaking business, fostering growth and allowing the speaker to make a significant impact on their audience.

b.) Public Speaking Business Models

Public speaking businesses can adopt various structures and models depending on their goals, the market they intend to serve, and their content delivery methods.

Here are some common setups:

• Solo Speaker : An individual offers their speaking services, specializing in certain topics based on their expertise. This model focuses on personal branding and direct client relationships.
• Speaker Agency : This model involves a business representing multiple speakers, managing their engagements, and promoting their expertise to potential clients. It allows for a broader range of topics and diversifies income sources.
• Training and Workshops : Beyond traditional speaking engagements, some businesses focus on interactive sessions such as workshops or training programs. These are often more detailed and hands-on than keynote speeches.
• Virtual Speaking Services : With the rise of digital platforms, some speakers specialize in webinars, online workshops, and virtual conferences. This model reduces travel costs and expands the potential audience globally.
• Consulting and Coaching : This model combines public speaking with personalized coaching or consulting services, offering more in-depth assistance to clients on particular issues.

Choosing the Right Business Model

Choosing a suitable business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching your model later is more challenging. Focusing on a niche allows you to adapt your products and services to a specific group of customers.

Consider becoming a specialist instead of trying to be a business that offers everything to everyone. Identifying a business model that feels right to you is essential and can give you a better chance of succeeding.

c.) Challenges You Could Face When Starting and Operating a Public Speaking Business

Challenges During the Startup Phase of a Public Speaking Business

Starting a public speaking business involves several challenges that can impact its initial setup and growth:

• Market Penetration : Gaining visibility and establishing credibility in a market filled with experienced speakers can be daunting. New entrants must work hard to differentiate themselves and attract their first clients.
• Capital Requirements : While not as capital intensive as other businesses, public speaking still requires investment in marketing, travel, equipment for high-quality presentations, and potentially venue hire for self-hosted events.
• Content Development : Developing compelling, original content that resonates with audiences can be time-consuming and requires deep expertise and insight into audience needs.
• Networking and Client Acquisition : Building a network that leads to speaking engagements involves significant effort in networking and relationship building, which can be challenging without prior connections.
• Navigating Fees and Pricing : Determining the right pricing structure to balance competitiveness with profitability can be tricky without market experience and brand recognition.

Challenges When Operating an Established Public Speaking Business

Once the business is up and running, the owner faces a different set of challenges:

• Maintaining Engagement : Keeping the content fresh and engaging to retain and grow the audience is critical, especially as competitors might also be vying for the same audience’s attention.
• Scaling the Business : Expanding the business without losing quality or personal touch can involve complex decisions about hiring additional speakers or staff and increasing the range of topics or services offered.
• Market Adaptability : Staying relevant in a rapidly changing market requires continuous learning and adaptation, particularly with the rise of digital platforms and changing audience preferences.
• Client Retention : Building and maintaining long-term client relationships requires consistent performance and the ability to adapt to client feedback and evolving needs.
• Time Management : Balancing time between speaking engagements, business management, content creation, and personal development can become increasingly challenging as the business grows.

These challenges necessitate strategic planning and adaptability to ensure sustained success and growth in the public speaking business.

3. Research

The right information plays a significant part of your success, Quality research is vital. The more you know, the easier it is to operate your business.

a.) Demand, the Competition and Your Location b.) Target Audience

a.) Demand, the Competition and Your Location

Before launching a public speaking business, assessing the market demand is critical. High quality and competitive pricing alone do not guarantee success; there must be substantial demand for your offerings.

Insufficient demand can result in business failure and significant financial losses.

Before proceeding, ensure a viable market exists for your services to avoid the pitfalls of unmanageable debt and business closure.

Market Saturation:

Another critical factor is the level of market saturation. A market flooded with similar offerings will pose challenges in gaining a significant market share.

It’s vital to offer distinct services or presentation styles that set you apart from existing competitors. Additionally, consider whether your business concept is easily replicable.

If so, established competitors could quickly adopt your innovations, diminishing your market advantage.

Competition:

Analyzing the competition is essential for understanding the landscape you are entering. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of current providers in the public speaking domain.

This analysis will help in positioning your business uniquely, allowing you to fill gaps in the market rather than directly competing with established entities for the same audience.

Choosing Your Location:

Selecting an optimal location is crucial for balancing demand with competition. The location should not only be affordable but also situated where demand for public speaking services is adequate.

High-traffic areas might offer more exposure but often come with higher operational costs. Conversely, lower rent areas might reduce costs but could lack sufficient demand to sustain the business.

Conclusion:

Selecting the right location involves more than just finding the cheapest option; it requires a strategic analysis of both supply and demand.

Extensive research and careful consideration of these factors are necessary to choose a location that supports the viability and growth of your public speaking business.

Ensure that you make an informed decision to position your business for success in a competitive market.

For more, see the Demand for Your Products and Services and Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

b.) Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is fundamental to the success of a public speaking business. Knowledge of your audience allows you to tailor your presentations and offerings to meet their specific interests and needs.

By focusing on the preferences of your audience, you can enhance engagement and effectiveness, ensuring that your content resonates and delivers value.

This targeted approach eliminates the inefficiency of a one-size-fits-all strategy, reducing wasted resources and increasing customer satisfaction.

A deep understanding of your audience also enables you to anticipate market trends and adapt your services proactively, maintaining relevance and competitive edge.

Target Market Ideas:

• Corporate Clients : Companies looking for training, team building, or motivational speaking to boost employee morale and productivity.
• Educational Institutions : Schools and universities that require guest speakers for commencements, career days, or educational seminars.
• Event Organizers : Professionals organizing conferences, workshops, or industry-specific events who need keynote speakers or panel experts.
• Non-Profit Organizations : Non-profits and community groups seeking speakers for fundraising events or awareness campaigns.
• Professional Associations : Trade groups and professional associations hosting regular meetings, requiring experts to speak on industry trends and best practices.
• Self-Improvement Groups : Clubs and groups focused on personal development, looking for speakers on topics like public speaking, personal finance, or health and wellness.
• Government Agencies : Government entities that organize training sessions, public information events, or employee enrichment programs.
• Health and Wellness Centers : Facilities that focus on mental and physical health, interested in speakers who specialize in motivational and educational topics to support well-being.

4. Looking Startup and Operating Cost:

You will struggle to manage a successful operation without investing the time and effort necessary to understand the financial elements of your public speaking business.

This section has a lot to cover, and these are critical steps in starting and operating your business.

The section is broken up into the following:

a.) Start-up Cost:

In this step, we will look at the importance of getting accurate estimates and a simple list to help you understand your needs.

b.) Monthly Expenses:

Expenses must be monitored, or the operation could be jeopardized. A sample list of monthly expenses is provided, which can be used to generate ideas for your setup.

c.) Best Practices

Well take a look at what you can do to ensure you are always on top of the financial well being of your operation.

Let’s get started!

a.) Start-Up Costs:

Importance of Accurate Estimations

Accurately estimating startup costs is crucial for the successful launch of a public speaking business.

An underestimation of costs can lead to a shortfall in funds, potentially preventing the business from opening. Conversely, overestimating costs can make the business seem like a high-risk venture to investors or lenders.

Therefore, precision in the initial financial assessment is essential to secure funding and maintain operational viability from the outset.

Factors Influencing Startup Costs

The total startup costs will vary significantly based on several factors:

• Business Model : Whether you are operating solo or establishing an agency with multiple speakers will impact initial costs.
• Operation Size : The scale of your operations, from a small boutique firm to a larger enterprise, affects your financial outlay.
• Location : Costs can vary dramatically depending on whether your business is based in a high-cost urban area or a more affordable locale.
• Staffing : Decisions on hiring employees versus operating independently will influence your payroll expenses.
• Equipment : Depending on whether you buy new or used equipment, or if you need specialized audio/visual equipment, costs will differ.
• Facility : Costs are affected by whether you choose to rent space, operate online, or work from a home office.

Steps to Estimate Costs

To effectively estimate startup costs, follow these steps:

• List Requirements : Compile a comprehensive list of everything needed to start and run your business, including equipment, office space, marketing, and initial legal or professional fees.
• Research Prices : Obtain actual prices for each listed item. Consider different suppliers and options to ensure cost efficiency.
• Consider Additional Expenses : As you delve deeper into your planning, additional costs may emerge, such as insurance, licenses, and contingency funds for unforeseen expenses.

While no one can predict the exact cost to start a public speaking business due to varying factors, thorough research and precise cost estimation are vital.

Understanding these financial requirements will help you determine the feasibility of your business idea and lay a solid foundation for its future success.

Sample List: Startup Costs for a Public Speaking Business

The purpose of the list below is to focus on the items more than the numbers because these are general samples, and your figures will be different.

• Rent/Lease: $1,500 – $3,000
• Security Deposit: $1,500 – $3,000
• Laptop/Desktop Computer: $800 – $1,500
• Projector and Screen: $500 – $1,000
• Microphones and Speakers: $1,000 – $2,000
• Presentation Software: $200 – $500
• Video Recording Equipment: $1,500 – $3,000
• Office Desks and Chairs: $1,000 – $2,000
• Conference Table and Chairs: $500 – $1,000
• Shelving and Storage Units: $300 – $800
• Decor and Plants: $200 – $500
• Website Development: $1,000 – $3,000
• Logo Design: $500 – $1,500
• Business Cards and Stationery: $200 – $500
• Marketing Materials (Brochures, Flyers ): $300 – $800
• Advertising (Online, Print): $500 – $1,500
• Business Registration and Licensing: $200 – $500
• Legal Consultation (Contracts, Agreements): $500 – $1,500
• Accounting Software or Services: $300 – $800
• Public Speaking Workshops or Courses: $1,000 – $3,000
• Professional Development Books and Resources: $200 – $500
• General Liability Insurance: $500 – $1,500
• Professional Liability Insurance: $500 – $1,500
• Office Supplies (Paper, Pens, etc.): $200 – $500
• Utilities Setup (Internet, Phone): $300 – $800
• Travel Expenses (Networking, Conferences): $500 – $1,500

Grand Total Estimated Startup Costs: Low End: $14,100 High End: $32,600

For more, refer to our article on Estimating Startup Costs.

b.) Monthly Operating Costs:

Factors Influencing Monthly Expenses

The monthly operating costs of a public speaking business are influenced by various factors, similar to startup costs. These factors include:

• Business Structure : Operating independently usually incurs lower expenses compared to managing a fully staffed business.
• Location : The cost of your business location significantly affects monthly expenses. A high-traffic, prime location typically comes with higher rental costs compared to a more modest area.

Examples of Monthly Expenses

Monthly expenses can vary widely but typically include the following:

• Utilities : These are essential for maintaining an office or venue, including electricity, water, and internet services.
• Payroll : If you have employees, payroll will be a significant part of your monthly expenses.
• Operating Costs : This broad category includes day-to-day expenses necessary for running your business, such as supplies, minor equipment repairs, and travel expenses for speaking engagements.
• Marketing : Ongoing marketing campaigns to attract new clients can be costly but are vital for business growth.
• Loan Payments : If you’ve taken out loans to start your business, the monthly repayments will impact your budget.
• Repairs and Maintenance : Regular maintenance of equipment and facilities ensures your business operations run smoothly without unexpected disruptions.

Managing Expenses

To maintain financial health and adapt to revenue fluctuations, it’s crucial to manage your expenses effectively. Some strategies include:

• Prioritize Quality : Reduce costs where possible without compromising the quality of your presentations, customer service, or operational efficiency.
• Review and Adjust : Regularly review your expenses to identify areas where you can cut costs or where increased spending could lead to better returns.
• Strategic Spending : Invest in areas that directly contribute to client satisfaction and business growth, such as quality marketing and professional development for speakers.

Effective management of monthly expenses is essential for the sustainability of a public speaking business.

By understanding and carefully managing these costs, you can ensure that your business remains profitable and competitive in the long term.

Sample List of Monthly Expenses for a Mid-Sized Public Speaking Business

Again, the purpose of the list below is to focus on the items in the list more than the numbers. The numbers are a general idea, and your numbers will differ.

• Rent/Lease: $2,000 – $4,000
• Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet, Phone): $500 – $1,000
• Public Speakers: $8,000 – $15,000
• Administrative Staff: $3,000 – $6,000
• Total Payroll: $11,000 – $21,000
• Loan Repayments (if applicable): $500 – $1,500
• Online Advertising (Google Ads, Social Media): $500 – $1,500
• Print Advertising (Brochures, Flyers): $300 – $800
• Total Marketing: $800 – $2,300
• General Liability Insurance: $200 – $500
• Professional Liability Insurance: $200 – $500
• Total Insurance: $400 – $1,000
• Office Supplies and Miscellaneous Expenses: $300 – $800
• Professional Development and Training: $500 – $1,500
• Maintenance and Repairs: $200 – $500
• Software Subscriptions (Presentation, Accounting, etc.): $200 – $500

Grand Total Estimated Monthly Expenses and Operating Costs: Low End: $16,500 High End: $34,300

c.) Best  Practices

Effective financial management is crucial to succeed. By doing so, you will clearly understand how your public speaking business is performing and make changes as needed.

For more, see, Critical Points About Small Business Finances

5. Create Your Mission Statement

A mission statement serves as a guiding principle for a public speaking business, clarifying its purpose and the value it aims to deliver to its audience and community.

By articulating the primary benefit it offers, a mission statement helps maintain focus and ensures alignment with the business’s objectives.

It acts as a reminder of the core mission, guiding decision-making processes and strategic initiatives.

Examples of mission statements for a public speaking business:

• “Empowering individuals and organizations to unlock their full potential through impactful communication and compelling storytelling.”
• “Inspiring positive change and transformation by delivering engaging, motivational speeches that resonate with audiences worldwide.”
• “Dedicated to equipping leaders with the communication skills and confidence needed to drive meaningful connections and drive success in today’s dynamic world.”

For more, see How To Create a Mission Statement.

6. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) distinguishes a public speaking business from competitors by highlighting its unique features or benefits.

It helps in crafting a compelling value proposition and differentiating the business in the marketplace.

Examples of USPs for a Public Speaking Business:

• Tailored Solutions: Offering customized speech content tailored to each client’s specific needs and objectives.
• Interactive Presentations: Engaging audiences through interactive presentations that encourage participation and learning.
• Industry Expertise: Providing expert insights and specialized knowledge in a particular industry or niche.
• Multimedia Integration: Incorporating multimedia elements such as videos, animations, and graphics to enhance presentations.
• Guaranteed Results: Guaranteeing measurable outcomes, such as improved communication skills or increased audience engagement, to clients.

7. Choose a Business Name

Choosing a Business Name for Your Public Speaking Business

Selecting a business name for your public speaking venture requires careful consideration. It should be catchy, relevant to your industry, easy to remember, and have an available domain name.

Since business names are relatively permanent, take your time to ensure it aligns with your brand identity.

Here Is a List of Sample Public Speaking Business Names:

• Articulate Advantages
• ClearSpeak Solutions
• Dynamic Dialogue Group
• Expressive Edge Enterprises
• Fluent Force Presentations
• Impactful Insights Institute
• Masterful Message Mastery
• Persuasive Podium Partners
• Rhetoric Realm Resources
• Stellar Speakers Studio
• Vivid Voice Ventures
• Eloquent Endeavors Inc.
• Engage Elevation Enterprises
• Motivational Magnitude LLC
• Precision Presentations Partners
• Resonate Rhetoric Resources
• SpeakWell Solutions
• Charismatic Communications Co.
• Elevate Eloquence Enterprises
• Inspire Impact Institute
• Proclaim Proficiency Partners
• Riveting Rhetoric Resources
• Storytelling Savvy Solutions
• TalkWise Training
• ClearFocus Presentations
• DynamicOrator Dynamics
• Flourish in Fluency Firm
• Motivate Momentum Mastery
• SpeakStrong Strategies
• VibrantVoice Ventures

This list can inspire your creativity to develop an original and fitting name for your public speaking business.

For more, see the following articles:

• How To Register a Business Name
• Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

8. Register Your Company

Legal Considerations for Your Public Speaking Business

• Ensure legal compliance and optimal setup for tax benefits and liability by consulting with a professional.
• Various registrations are necessary for a public speaking business to operate legally.
• Permits and licenses are essential to obtain for regulatory compliance and credibility.
• Becoming a bondable business can enhance customer confidence and credibility.

Common Types of Registrations for a Public Speaking Business:

• Business Entity Registration (LLC, Corporation, Partnership)
• Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
• State Business Licenses

Permits and Licenses to Consider for a Public Speaking Business:

• Business Operation License
• Professional Speaking Permit (if required by local regulations)
• Sales Tax Permit
• Music License (if using copyrighted music)
• Fire Safety Permit (if hosting events)
• Zoning Permit (if operating from a commercial location)
• Health Department Permit (if serving food or beverages)
• Signage Permit

Consider Becoming a Bondable Business:

• Bondable businesses provide assurance to customers by ensuring employees have passed background checks.
• Being bondable can improve trust and confidence in your public speaking services.

Registration:

• How to Register Your Business
• How To Register a DBA
• How to Register a Trademark
• How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

• How to Choose a Business Structure
• Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Form an LLC
• How To Register a Business Partnership
• How To Form a Corporation
• How To Choose a Business Registration Service

9. Create Your Corporate Identity

A Corporate ID, or corporate identity, encompasses various visual elements that represent your business’s brand. These components include the logo, business cards, website, signage, stationery, and promotional materials.

Consistency in design across these elements is crucial for leaving a professional impression on both potential and existing customers.

A well-executed corporate identity communicates reliability, professionalism, and establishes a memorable brand presence in the market.

You can see our pages for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

10. Writing a Business Plan

The Role of a Business Plan in a Public Speaking Business

Essential Tool for Financing and Guidance A business plan is a critical document for anyone starting or running a public speaking business.

It serves multiple purposes, notably as a requirement when applying for financing or attracting investors.

Beyond financial implications, a business plan acts as a strategic guide, ensuring that you remain aligned with your business goals during the startup phase and as your business matures.

Creating Your Business Plan

The creation of a business plan requires considerable time, thought, and effort but is a worthwhile endeavor. It provides a clear vision of what the business aims to achieve and details the roadmap to get there.

Here are the options available for creating your business plan:

• Write from Scratch : Building your business plan from the ground up allows for complete customization but requires a deep understanding of business planning.
• Hire a Professional : Engaging a professional to write your business plan ensures that it is comprehensive and polished. It is crucial to work closely with the consultant to accurately convey your business vision and operations.
• Use a Template : Templates offer a structured way to write a business plan, providing an outline that covers essential sections needed in a standard plan.
• Business Plan Software : These tools provide guidance, resources, and support as you draft your business plan, making the process more manageable.

Adaptability of the Business Plan

It is important to recognize that your business plan is not static. As your business grows and the market evolves, revisiting and revising your business plan is necessary:

• Experience and Learning : Gaining more insight into the public speaking market can lead to adjustments in your business strategy.
• Operational Changes : As your business develops, changes in operations may necessitate updates to your business plan.
• Market Evolution : Shifts in market dynamics might require tweaks to your business model to stay competitive.

Periodic Review

Regularly reviewing and updating your business plan is advisable. This practice helps you stay on top of changes and ensures that your business adapts effectively to new challenges and opportunities.

Keeping your business plan current enhances your strategic operations and aligns with your long-term success goals.

Business Plan Sample Template for a Public Speaking Business

Below is a template you can use as a starting point for your business plan, you can adapt it to fit your public speaking business.

Business Plan Template for a Public Speaking Business

Executive Summary

• Business Name : State the name of your public speaking business.
• Business Structure : Specify whether it is a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation.
• Mission Statement : Briefly describe the core goals and values of the business.
• Location : Detail the geographical location and the operational premises.
• Services Offered : Outline the types of public speaking services you provide.
• Target Market : Define the demographic and psychographic profile of your target audience.
• Financial Summary : Provide a high-level view of the startup costs, projected revenue, and profitability.
• Objectives : List short-term and long-term objectives for the business.

Company Description

• Industry Background : Describe the public speaking industry, current trends, and future potential.
• Business History and Background : If applicable, detail the history and evolution of your business.
• Vision : What is the long-term vision of your company in the marketplace?

Market Analysis

• Market Needs : Specify the needs of your market and how your business intends to meet them.
• Target Audience : Detailed description of your audience, including geographic, demographic, and behavioral factors.
• Market Size and Growth : Quantify the size of your market and its potential for growth.
• Competitive Analysis : Identify major competitors and analyze their strengths, weaknesses, market position, and strategies.
• SWOT Analysis : Detail the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats facing your business.

Organization and Management

• Organizational Structure : Outline your business’s structure including key roles and responsibilities.
• Management Team : Profiles of key management team members, including their backgrounds and relevant experience.
• Legal Structure : Information on the legal structure of your business (e.g., LLC, corporation).

Services Offered

• Detailed Description of Services : Explain the public speaking services you offer.
• Pricing Strategy : How you will price your services to remain competitive yet profitable.
• Service Development : Describe how your services will evolve to meet client needs and market demands.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

• Marketing Strategy : Outline how you plan to attract and retain customers.
• Sales Strategy : Detail how you will sell your services, including sales tactics and tools.
• Promotion and Advertising : Plans for promotional tactics and advertising channels to be used.

Funding Request

• Current Funding Requirement : State the total amount of funding you are seeking.
• Future Funding Requirements : Outline any anticipated needs for additional funding in the future.
• Use of Funds : Describe how the funds will be used (e.g., marketing, equipment, hiring).

Financial Projections

• Profit and Loss Statement : Forecast for the next three to five years, showing revenue, expenses, and profits.
• Cash Flow Statement : Month-by-month prediction for at least the first year.
• Balance Sheet : Snapshot of your business’s financial standing at startup and future projections.
• Break-even Analysis : Calculate the break-even point to understand when your business will become profitable.
• Supporting Documents : Include any additional documents that support your business plan, such as market studies, legal agreements, resumes of key employees, or technical specifications.

This template provides a structured guide to help tailor a business plan for a public speaking business. Each section should be detailed and adapted based on specific business needs and market conditions.

See How to Write a Business Plan for information on creating yours.

11. Banking Considerations

When selecting a bank for your small business, prioritize proximity, financial stability, and a reputable presence in the industry.

Cultivating a professional relationship with your banker is crucial for accessing guidance and support during both prosperous and challenging periods.

A dedicated business account ensures clear separation of personal and business finances, facilitating expense tracking, reporting, and tax filing.

Additionally, having a merchant account enables you to accept credit and debit card payments, enhancing sales opportunities and customer convenience.

Choose a bank that offers streamlined application processes and comprehensive financial services to meet your business needs effectively.

For more, see How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

12. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

To secure funding for your public speaking business, explore various options including traditional lenders, private loans, seeking investors, or selling personal assets.

Additionally, investigate potential government grants tailored to support entrepreneurial ventures in your field.

Considerations When Meeting with a Loan Officer:

• Clearly articulate your business plan, detailing your target market, revenue projections, and growth strategy.
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of your industry, highlighting competitive advantages and market opportunities.
• Be prepared to discuss your personal credit history, financial stability, and collateral options.
• Emphasize your commitment to the business’s success and your ability to manage risks effectively.

Documents Needed to Apply for a New Public Speaking Business Loan:

• Business Plan: Outlining your business goals, target market, marketing strategies, and financial projections.
• Personal and Business Financial Statements: Including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow projections.
• Tax Returns: Providing personal and business tax returns for the past few years.
• Legal Documents: Such as business licenses, permits, and registrations.
• Collateral Information: Documentation of assets that can be used as collateral to secure the loan.
• Credit History: Personal and business credit reports to assess creditworthiness.
• Resumes: Highlighting relevant experience and qualifications in the public speaking industry.
• References: Professional references or letters of recommendation to attest to your credibility and competence.

For more, see the following:

• Getting a Small Business Loan
• SBA Small Business Grants
• Search: Public Speaking Business Start-up Loans
• Search: Grants For a Public Speaking Business

13. Software Setup

Researching software options before implementation is crucial to avoid the hassle of switching systems later. Prioritize companies with a proven track record to ensure reliable future support.

Take advantage of software demos to assess suitability before making a commitment. Reviews and forums offer valuable insights into user experiences.

Look for software with available training resources for optimal utilization. Additionally, consider expense tracking and financial document preparation software to facilitate tax filing. Consulting with a bookkeeper or accountant can provide valuable guidance in selecting accounting software.

Types of Software for Public Speaking Business Management and Operations:

• Presentation Software (e.g., PowerPoint, Keynote)
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software
• Event Management Software
• Online Booking and Scheduling Software
• Financial Management and Accounting Software
• Expense Tracking Software
• Video Conferencing and Webinar Software
• Project Management Software
• Marketing Automation Software
• Social Media Management Tools

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a public speaking business.

14. Get The Right Business Insurance

Business insurance is essential to mitigate financial risks associated with unforeseen incidents that can occur during business operations.

Having the right insurance coverage in place before any business activity is crucial to protect various stakeholders and assets.

Types of Insurance to Consider:

• General Liability Insurance: Protects against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury arising from business operations or premises.
• Professional Liability Insurance: Also known as errors and omissions insurance, it provides coverage against lawsuits alleging negligence or errors in professional services provided.
• Property Insurance: Covers physical assets such as equipment, furniture, and office space against damage or loss due to fire, theft, vandalism, or other covered perils.
• Business Interruption Insurance: Provides financial support in case of a temporary shutdown due to covered incidents, such as fire or natural disasters, helping cover ongoing expenses and lost income during the interruption.

Utilizing the expertise of a competent insurance broker is advisable to assess your specific business risks and ensure adequate coverage.

They can guide you in selecting the right insurance policies tailored to your public speaking business’s needs, ensuring comprehensive protection against potential liabilities and financial losses.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for public speaking business insurance .

15. Suppliers and Service Providers

Building Strong Relationships with Suppliers and Service Providers

Establishing a dependable relationship with suppliers and service providers is vital for the success of your public speaking business.

A reliable supplier ensures timely delivery of quality products or services, contributing to your business’s efficiency and reputation.

Benefits of a Strong Relationship:

• Competitive Pricing: Suppliers offering competitive prices enable you to offer competitive rates to your customers, enhancing your business’s profitability.
• Reliable Supply: Ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted flow of essential supplies and services is critical for maintaining operational efficiency.
• Mutual Benefit: Treating suppliers and service providers fairly and ensuring they also benefit financially fosters a positive and mutually beneficial partnership.

Items and Services Public Speaking Business Might Need:

• Audiovisual Equipment (Microphones, Speakers, Projectors)
• Office Supplies (Paper, Pens, Stationery)
• Printing Services (Business Cards, Flyers, Brochures)
• Event Venue Rental
• Catering Services
• Transportation Services (for speakers or equipment)
• Website Design and Development
• Marketing and Advertising Services
• Legal and Accounting Services
• Insurance Coverage (General Liability, Professional Liability)

For more information, see How To Choose a Supplier.

16. Setting Prices

Researching Pricing for Your Public Speaking Business

Conducting thorough pricing research is crucial when launching a public speaking business to ensure competitiveness and profitability.

Benefits of Pricing Research:

• Maximizing Sales: Setting prices at the right level ensures you attract customers without pricing yourself out of the market.
• Maintaining Profitability: Avoiding excessively low prices preserves profitability and ensures you can cover expenses and generate sustainable revenue.
• Emphasizing Value: Finding the right balance allows you to highlight the value proposition of your services while remaining competitive in the market.

Finding the Right Balance:

• Competitive Pricing: Aligning your prices with prevailing market rates helps you remain competitive and attract customers.
• Value Emphasis: Highlighting the unique value and benefits you offer allows you to justify your pricing while distinguishing yourself from competitors.
• Profitability Focus: Ensuring your prices generate sufficient profit margin enables you to sustain and grow your business effectively.

See the following for more:

• Setting the Price of Your Products and Services
• Search Results for Pricing Strategies for a Public Speaking Business.

17. Physical Setup

Considerations for Public Speaking Business Layout:

• Space Utilization: Optimize space to accommodate various activities such as presentations, meetings, and administrative tasks efficiently.
• Safety Measures: Ensure compliance with safety regulations, including emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits.
• Accessibility: Ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities and consider ergonomic principles for comfortable workspace design.

Setting Up Business Signs:

• Main Business Sign: Install a prominent and professionally designed sign to identify your public speaking business and attract potential clients.
• Location Signage: Add signs to relevant areas, exits, and specific zones within your premises for easy navigation and information dissemination.
• Professional Image: Well-designed signs enhance the professionalism of your business and instill confidence in clients and visitors.

Managing Your Office Setup:

• Time Management: Efficiently manage your business operations by establishing clear workflows and routines.
• Productivity Boost: An organized office environment promotes productivity by reducing clutter and distractions.
• Equipped Office: Ensure your office is equipped with essential tools and resources, including computers, communication devices, and office supplies, to facilitate effective management of your public speaking business.
• Considerations for the Setup of Your Office
• Considerations for Your Company Sign.

18. Creating a Website

A website serves as a crucial hub for your public speaking business, providing a centralized platform to showcase your offerings, promotions, and key information.

Unlike social media accounts, a website offers ownership and control when you host and register a domain name.

It also functions as a powerful marketing tool, allowing you to engage with customers through blogging and sharing valuable insights tailored to your audience, thereby building trust and positioning yourself as an expert in your industry.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Hiring Employees

Running a Public Speaking Business Alone

Running your public speaking business solo in the early stages can help control costs, especially considering payroll expenses.

However, as your business expands, managing operations alone may become overwhelming, necessitating the hiring of employees.

Considerations for Hiring Personnel:

• Qualifications: Hire individuals with relevant skills and experience in areas crucial to your business’s success.
• Work Ethics: Seek candidates with strong work ethics and dedication to achieving business objectives.
• Right Fit: Ensure each new hire is well-suited for their role and aligns with your business’s values and culture.

Job Positions or Outsourced Services to Consider:

• Event Coordinator
• Administrative Assistant
• Marketing Specialist
• Content Writer or Blogger
• Graphic Designer
• Web Developer
• Customer Service Representative
• Bookkeeper or Accountant
• Legal Counsel
• Human Resources Consultant

For more, see How and When to Hire a New Employee.

20. Getting Customers Through the Door

When you have reached this step, your business is set up and ready to go, with one more final step, which is important: getting customers through the door.

There are numerous ways to do this, like advertising, having a grand opening , word of mouth, etc.

The following sections will give you a few ideas to spark your creativity and draw attention to your new public speaking business.

In this step, we’ll cover the following sections:

a.) Marketing Considerations b.) The Market Can Guide You c.) Sample Ad Ideas d.) Joint Venture Ideas

Let’s dig a little deeper into the following sections.

a.) Marketing Considerations

Attracting Customers to Your Public Speaking Business

A successful public speaking business relies on attracting the right customers, especially in its early stages when awareness is limited.

Building Reputation and Experience:

• Initially challenging due to newness, but reputation and marketing experience improve over time.
• Reputation building facilitates customer attraction as trust in your services grows.

Ongoing Marketing Efforts:

• Continuous marketing is essential for sustained business growth and revenue generation.
• Effective marketing investments yield higher returns in customer acquisition and business success .

Simplified Marketing Approach:

• Marketing doesn’t always require professional assistance but can be outsourced when necessary.
• Simplify marketing by focusing on raising awareness of your business whenever opportunities arise.

Simple Methods to Promote Your Business:

• Utilize Social Media: Share valuable content, engage with followers, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn and X to reach potential clients.
• Networking: Attend industry events, join professional groups, and engage in networking activities to connect with potential clients and collaborators.
• Offer Free Workshops: Provide free workshops or seminars to showcase your expertise and attract interested individuals or organizations.
• Create a Blog: Share insights, tips, and resources related to public speaking on your website’s blog to establish credibility and attract organic traffic.
• Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with influential figures in your industry or related fields to expand your reach and credibility through their networks.

See How To Get Customers Through the Door and our marketing section for ideas on promoting your business.

b.) The Market Can Guide You

Listening to Customer Needs

Staying attuned to customer preferences and market demand is crucial for the success of your public speaking business.

Market Signals:

• While you may have a specific product or service in mind, be open to variations or adjustments that align with market demand.
• Ignoring market signals could lead to missed opportunities for business growth and success.

Resisting Change:

• It’s understandable to prioritize your business vision, but being flexible to adapt to changing market needs can be beneficial in the long run.
• Assess the potential impact of ignoring persistent market signals on your business’s growth and viability.

Decision Making:

• Ultimately, the direction of your business is your prerogative, but consider the implications of disregarding evident market demand.
• Taking a step back to evaluate market feedback can inform strategic decisions and potentially lead to a more thriving business.

c.) Sample Ad Ideas

Display Ad 1: Headline: “Master the Art of Public Speaking!”

Unlock your potential with expert guidance from our experienced public speaking coaches. Join our workshops today!

Display Ad 2: Headline: “Speak with Confidence, Succeed with Impact!”

Elevate your communication skills with our dynamic public speaking courses. Enroll now for proven strategies and techniques!

Display Ad 3: Headline: “Transform Your Presentations into Powerful Messages!”

Gain the skills to captivate your audience and deliver compelling speeches. Discover our tailored training programs today!

Display Ad 4: Headline: “Unleash Your Voice, Ignite Your Influence!”

Become a persuasive and influential speaker with our comprehensive public speaking workshops. Reserve your spot now!

Display Ad 5: Headline: “Stand Out with Stellar Communication Skills!”

Enhance your professional profile and command attention with our expert-led public speaking seminars. Register for our upcoming sessions!”

d.) Joint Venture Ideas

Joint Venture Ideas for Public Speaking Business

Joint ventures offer opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships between businesses, whether for short-term projects or long-term collaborations.

Benefits of Joint Ventures:

• Expanded Reach: Partnering with complementary businesses enables access to new customer bases and markets.
• Enhanced Offerings: Joint ventures allow businesses to offer a broader range of products or services to their customers.
• Cost Efficiency: Sharing resources and expertise with partners can lead to cost savings and improved efficiency.
• Strategic Alliances: Collaborating with other businesses can strengthen brand reputation and credibility.

Applicable Businesses for Joint Ventures:

• Event Management Companies: Collaborate to offer integrated event planning services, combining public speaking engagements with event organization.
• Professional Development Firms: Partner to provide comprehensive training programs, incorporating public speaking skills development alongside other professional skills.
• Marketing Agencies: Jointly promote public speaking workshops or seminars as part of integrated marketing campaigns, leveraging each other’s networks and expertise.
• Corporate Training Providers: Collaborate to deliver tailored training programs for businesses, combining public speaking training with other corporate development initiatives.
• Technology Companies: Partner to develop online public speaking platforms or tools, offering innovative solutions for virtual presentations and communication training.
• Educational Institutions: Collaborate to offer public speaking courses or workshops as part of continuing education programs or extracurricular activities for students and professionals.
• Community Organizations: Partner to organize public speaking events or seminars aimed at community engagement and empowerment, leveraging local networks and resources.

Also see How To Create A Joint Venture

Points To Consider

Next, for your public speaking business, let’s review essential points to consider

We will cover sections, including tips to improve the setup of your public speaking business, equipment, alternatives to starting from scratch, and more.

After that, you’ll reach the “Knowledge Is Power,” section, where you can access resources to external information.

Key Points to Succeed in a Public Speaking Business

Critical Points to Succeed in the Setup Phase of a Public Speaking Business:

• Market Research: Conduct thorough market research to identify target audience, competitors, and market trends.
• Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your goals, target market, services offered, and financial projections.
• Legal Structure: Choose an appropriate legal structure for your business, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation.
• Branding and Marketing: Establish a strong brand identity and marketing strategy to attract clients and differentiate your business.
• Networking: Build relationships with industry professionals, potential clients, and partners to create opportunities for collaboration and referrals.
• Financial Management: Set up accounting systems and secure financing, if necessary, to ensure sound financial management from the outset.
• Training and Development: Invest in professional development to enhance your public speaking skills and stay aware of industry trends.
• Technology Integration: Utilize technology tools and platforms to streamline business operations, communication, and marketing efforts.
• Compliance and Regulation: Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, such as business licenses, permits, and tax obligations.
• Customer Service: Focus on providing exceptional customer service to build trust and credibility with clients from the beginning.

Critical Points to Succeed in the Operation Phase of a Public Speaking Business:

• Quality Service Delivery: Maintain high standards of service delivery to meet or exceed client expectations and build a positive reputation.
• Staffing and Training: Recruit and retain qualified staff members who align with your business values and provide ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Employee Turnover Management: Implement strategies to reduce employee turnover , such as offering competitive compensation, providing a positive work environment, and fostering career growth opportunities.
• Client Relationship Management: Nurture relationships with existing clients through regular communication, follow-up, and personalized service to encourage repeat business and referrals.
• Marketing and Promotion: Continue to invest in marketing and promotional activities to attract new clients and expand your reach in the market.
• Financial Management: Monitor financial performance closely, track expenses, and optimize revenue streams to ensure profitability and sustainability.
• Operational Efficiency: Streamline business processes and workflows to improve efficiency and productivity, leveraging technology and automation where possible.
• Continuous Improvement: Seek feedback from clients and employees to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies for continuous growth and enhancement.
• Adaptability: Stay agile and adaptable in response to changing market conditions, emerging trends, and client needs to remain competitive and relevant in the industry.
• Legal and Compliance: Stay updated on relevant laws and regulations affecting your business operations and ensure ongoing compliance to avoid legal issues or penalties.

Ideas to Make a Public Speaking Business Stand Out:

• Specialized Niche: Focus on a specific niche or industry segment within public speaking, such as executive coaching, TED-style talks, or presentation skills for technical professionals, to differentiate your services and target a specific audience.
• Unique Training Methods: Develop innovative training methods or proprietary techniques that set your business apart from competitors and deliver tangible results for clients.
• High-Profile Speakers: Partner with renowned speakers or industry experts to offer exclusive workshops, seminars, or keynote presentations that attract attention and establish credibility for your business.
• Online Presence: Build a strong online presence through a professional website, active social media presence, and engaging content marketing to showcase your expertise, attract clients, and drive engagement.
• Client Testimonials and Case Studies: Highlight success stories and testimonials from satisfied clients to demonstrate the effectiveness of your services and build trust with potential customers.
• Customized Solutions: Offer personalized coaching or training programs tailored to the specific needs and goals of individual clients, providing a personalized experience that sets you apart from one-size-fits-all solutions.
• Networking and Partnerships: Establish partnerships with complementary businesses or industry associations to expand your reach, access new clients, and create opportunities for collaboration and referral business.
• Continuous Improvement: Invest in ongoing professional development, stay updated on industry trends and best practices, and continuously refine and enhance your offerings to stay ahead of the competition and meet evolving client needs.

Ideas for Add-ons for a Public Speaking Business:

• Video Recording Services: Offer professional video recording and editing services to clients who want to capture and polish their presentations for promotional or training purposes.
• Speechwriting Assistance: Provide speechwriting assistance to clients who need help crafting compelling speeches or presentations, offering customized content creation services tailored to their specific needs and audience.
• Visual Aids Design: Offer design services for visual aids such as PowerPoint slides, infographics, or handouts to enhance the effectiveness and visual appeal of client presentations.
• Virtual Presentation Training: Develop training programs specifically tailored to help clients improve their virtual presentation skills, including techniques for engaging remote audiences and navigating online platforms effectively.
• Public Speaking Workshops for Teams: Organize workshops or training sessions specifically designed for teams or groups within organizations, focusing on building communication and presentation skills to enhance teamwork and collaboration.
• Coaching Packages with Follow-up Support: Create coaching packages that include ongoing support and follow-up sessions to help clients reinforce their skills, overcome challenges, and sustain their growth and development over time.

Hours of Operation:

• Typically, standard business hours may range from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
• However, flexibility may be necessary to accommodate client schedules and event requirements.
• Some tasks, such as client consultations, event preparation, and post-event evaluations, may require additional time outside of regular business hours to ensure quality service delivery.

Equipment and Supplies

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Public Speaking Business:

Audio Equipment:

• Microphones (handheld, lapel, headset)
• Portable PA system
• Speakers and monitors

Visual Equipment:

• Projection screens
• LED displays or TVs
• Laser pointers

Presentation Aids:

• Flip charts and markers
• Whiteboards or chalkboards
• Presentation remotes

Recording and Playback Devices:

• Video cameras or camcorders
• Digital audio recorders
• Laptop or tablet for presentations
• DVD or Blu-ray players

Computer and Software:

• Laptop or desktop computer
• Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Keynote)
• Video editing software
• Screen recording software

Stage and Podium:

• Portable stages or platforms
• Lectern or podium
• Stage lighting equipment
• Backdrop or banners

Furniture and Accessories:

• Chairs and tables
• Comfortable seating for audience
• Tablecloths or drapes
• Signage and banners

Communication Tools:

• Telephone or VoIP system
• Internet connection
• Wi-Fi router
• Conference call equipment

Safety and Emergency Equipment:

• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Emergency evacuation plan
• Emergency lighting

Miscellaneous Supplies:

• Extension cords and power strips
• Batteries (for microphones, remotes, etc.)
• Cable ties and Velcro straps
• Cleaning supplies for equipment maintenance

It’s crucial to assess your skill set when considering starting a public speaking business as your expertise directly impacts business success.

Identifying strengths allows you to leverage them effectively, while recognizing weaknesses prompts skill development or delegation.

Public speaking necessitates diverse abilities beyond communication proficiency. Essential skills include:

• Public Speaking Mastery: Proficiency in delivering engaging, articulate speeches is paramount.
• Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication fosters rapport with clients and audiences.
• Business Acumen: Understanding business fundamentals like budgeting, marketing, and strategic planning is vital for sustained success.
• Networking Abilities: Building and maintaining professional relationships expands clientele and partnership opportunities.
• Adaptability: Flexibility in responding to diverse audience needs and unexpected circumstances ensures seamless presentations.
• Leadership Qualities: Inspiring confidence and motivating others cultivates a strong presence and credibility.
• Organizational Skills: Efficiently managing schedules, resources, and logistics optimizes event planning and execution.
• Creativity: Crafting innovative speeches and presentations captivates audiences and differentiates your services.
• Problem-Solving Aptitude: Swiftly resolving challenges during presentations enhances professionalism and client satisfaction.
• Tech Savvy: Proficiency with presentation software, audiovisual equipment, and online platforms enhances efficiency and effectiveness.

Evaluation of these skills guides business strategy, training initiatives, and potential partnerships to ensure optimal performance and client satisfaction.

For more, see The Essential Skills To Run a Business

Terminology

Being familiar with the terminology in your industry is a must. You can pick it up as you gain more experience.

For now, you can see the list below to get you started.

• Keynote Address: A primary speech delivered at an event, typically setting the tone or theme.
• TED Talk: A presentation format renowned for its concise, compelling delivery on diverse topics.
• Master of Ceremonies (MC): The host or facilitator of an event, responsible for introducing speakers and maintaining audience engagement.
• Panel Discussion: A structured conversation among a group of experts or stakeholders on a specific topic.
• Workshop: A hands-on, interactive session focused on skill development or knowledge acquisition.
• Seminar: A formal presentation or series of presentations on a particular subject, often led by an expert.
• Webinar: A seminar conducted over the internet, typically interactive and accessible to remote participants.
• Key Takeaways: The main points or lessons learned from a presentation or event.
• Audience Engagement: Techniques or strategies employed to involve and captivate audience members.
• Visual Aids: Supplementary materials, such as slides or props, used to enhance presentations.
• Q&A Session: A period following a presentation during which the audience can ask questions and engage with the speaker.
• Elevator Pitch: A concise, persuasive speech designed to quickly convey a business idea or proposal.
• Stage Fright: Anxiety or nervousness experienced before or during public speaking engagements.
• Feedback Loop: The process of soliciting and incorporating feedback to improve future presentations.
• Nonverbal Communication: Gestures, facial expressions, and body language used to convey messages during a presentation.
• Storytelling: The art of using narratives to convey information, evoke emotion, and engage the audience.
• Pitch Deck: A visual presentation used to pitch ideas, products, or services to potential investors or clients.
• Power Pose: A body posture believed to convey confidence and assertiveness, often used before speaking engagements.
• Speechwriter: A professional writer hired to craft speeches or presentations on behalf of a client.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

There are many sources of information to increase your knowledge for starting and running a public speaking business.

The good news is that the sections below lead to material, and I have made it easy for you by providing links to Search Results.

You don’t have to focus on what to look for; instead, click the links that interest you and explore the search results that can deliver a wealth of information.

Trends and Statistics

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the public speaking industry.

Associations

See the search results for associations for a public speaking business and the benefits of Joining the Chamber of Commerce.

The Top Public Speakers

See the latest search results for the public speakers .

Customer Expectations

See the search results related to customer expectations for public speaking.

Tips for Public Speaking

See the latest search results for public speaking to gain tips and insights.

What to Avoid When Running a Public Speaking Business

See the latest search results about mistakes to avoid in your public speaking business.

Interviews With Public Speakers

See the latest search results for interviews with public speakers.

See the search results for public speaking books.

Discussion Forums

See the latest search results related to public speaking discussion forums.

See the latest courses that could benefit a public speaking business owner . Also, see our management articles for tips and insights for managing your business.

Blogs Public Speaking

Look at the latest search results for top public speaking blogs to follow.

service Based Business Tips

Look at the latest search results for service tips and insights to follow.

See the latest results for public speaking news.

YouTube videos related to public speaking.

Privacy Overview

How to Become A Public Speaker (And Get Paid to Speak)

• Carolyn Manion Kinnie
• April 22, 2024

Table of Contents

Becoming a professional public speaker is an amazing and rewarding professional venture. The best part is, anyone from any career can do it! Public speaking allows you to share a meaningful message. You get to enact transformation for individuals and businesses. And you leave lasting impact on your audiences that ripples into their spheres of influence and beyond. In short, you have the potential to influence hundreds, thousands, and even millions from the stage. But to become a public speaker who is actually successful, you have to carefully plan your business strategy just like any other entrepreneurial venture. That’s why we’ve put together this guide for how to become a public speaker. 

Maybe speaking is your dream full-time  career, or maybe it’s just a rewarding side hustle. Regardless, our aim is to give you a blueprint for getting started on the path to public speaking . This article outlines the path to professional speaking from the first topic idea germinating in your mind to the stage.

1.  Choose your Niche

Choosing a speaking topic may seem like the obvious first step to deciding to become a speaker. However, it’s actually just one piece of the bigger task of choosing your niche. Your niche is the unique spot within the speaking industry that you inhabit. It’s the intersection of what you speak about, who you want to help, and who wants to hire you.

To find your niche, ask yourself some questions. What drives you? How is your speaking business special? What sets you apart from other speakers? Who is your target audience? What do they struggle with? To what questions are they looking for answers? Most importantly, what specific problem do you solve for that audience? The answers to all these questions will lead you straight to your niche. Once you feel comfortable with your niche, then you can focus on refining your topic.

Another way to say it is that your niche lies at the intersection of your interest, industry, and integrity. By “integrity” we mean the experience you actually have–even if that’s not a lot! You can be a great speaker without being the world’s foremost expert, so long as you’re honest about not being the world’s foremost expert. Honesty and authenticity go a long way toward connecting with your audience. Even the most experienced speaker can lose credibility as soon as they let slip that they have been faking something. 

Many speakers are so fired up about their message, they want to speak to everybody. Unfortunately, “speaking to everybody” usually ends up meaning “speaking to nobody.” If you want to learn how to become a public speaker, you have to learn how to narrow your audience. It is much easier to get booked and paid to speak when you have a very specific idea of the audience you serve.

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

Use The Official Speaker Fee Calculator to tell you what you should charge for your first (or next) speaking gig — virtual or in-person! 

2. Work on your Assets

Excited to get booked and paid as a public speaker now that you’ve settled on a niche? Well, there are a few ducks to get in a row first. To put your best foot forward, you should go into this venture with well-prepared assets. What we mean by “assets” are your signature talk, a speaker website , demo video, and client proposal materials. Each of these assets are an important piece in the puzzle of how to become a speaker. Without one or another, you may come across as unprofessional and lose speaking opportunities to your competition. 

We don’t want you to look at this section and say “wow, that’s overwhelming, I guess I can’t learn how to become a public speaker after all.” These assets are important, yes! But they don’t have to be perfect or even fancy, especially when you first start public speaking. As you grow and scale your speaking business, you will have many opportunities to return to these assets and improve them. Starting somewhere is better than not starting at all! 

• Signature talk

You should start working on your your signature talk once you establish your niche and topic. Your marketing and business materials will flow from both your personal brand and the content of your signature talk. It may surprise you to learn that successful public speakers usually write the talk before they get booked and paid to speak, but this is part of the business. When you reach out to potential clients, it’s easier to make a pitch for a pre-existing talk that meets their needs than a vague idea of your speaking talent. 

Of course, you can and should tweak and modify your talk for each audience. If you’re staying within the same niche though, you’ll probably find many audiences to whom the same talk appeals. And as you expand your speaking business and start speaking to more audiences, you can create a “speaker menu” of multiple talks or workshops that revolve around your expertise and your message. 

Your speaker website and demo video are the two most important client-facing digital assets. That means that when potential clients investigate your speaking business, they will heavily consider these things before they talk to you. 

We have a whole blog about building your speaker website here. In short, it should include your demo video, bio, and an easy way to get in touch with you. Simplicity is key here–you don’t want to distract from your assets. You can accomplish all of this in a simple one-page website with a contact form at the bottom. If you’re on a budget, you can easily do this yourself from a template and pay no more than the basic domain and hosting fees. Once you expand your clientele and personal brand , you can hire a professional to add whatever bells and whistles you desire. 

Your website is probably the first place you will write a speaker bio for, but it won’t be the last! Your speaker bio is a key asset that will come in handy for proposals, event programs, speaking bureau relationships, and more. Take the time to write a comprehensive bio for your website that highlights your expertise, personality, and mission. We have all the resources you need for writing an amazing speaker bio right here.

Your demo video or “sizzle reel” is a 2-3 minute video that includes clips of you speaking, preferably to an audience. An interview style video about your speaking business might be interesting, but that’s not what event planners are looking for. They want real-life footage of you on stage. If you haven’t delivered any paid speaking gigs yet, you can still create an amazing demo video! Consider getting some friends together for a staged rehearsal of your signature talk or undertake some free speaking opportunities within your community. 

There is nothing wrong with using iphone footage and DIY-ing your first demo video. As you get more and more paid gigs, you can update your demo video into a high-quality production. We have a podcast episode outlining the process of creating your demo video here.

• Proposal materials

When you start interfacing with clients with the contact strategy we outline below, you will need a one sheet and a proposal. Your speaker one sheet is the document that summarizes your speaking business on one page. Your proposal includes all the details of what you offer for a particular client, and your contract seals the deal. Preparing a speaker one sheet and a proposal template that you can easily modify for each client ahead of time will save you a lot of time and effort during the process of getting on the phone and selling your services to an event planner. 

3. Create a Marketing Plan 

At the beginning of your speaking journey, speaking leads will not come to you. You will have to go out and find them–which is what steps 4 and 5 cover. However, having a good marketing plan in place from the very beginning will encourage the leads start coming to you as you expand their business. There are three main avenues for marketing your public speaking business that we’ll cover briefly here. 

Word of Mouth

Telling friends and family (and anyone who will listen) is essential when you decide to become a speaker. Many would-be speakers don’t do this right away. They keep their speaking venture a secret, preferring to tell friends, family, and acquaintances once they start to get famous. This is the opposite of how to become a public speaker who gets booked and paid to speak. Your existing network is one of the most important free resources for your marketing strategy. Chances are someone you know knows somebody who hires speakers. Especially when you are trying to get any chance you can in front of an audience for the sake of experience, these personal connections can help propel you to the next stage of your speaking business. 

Building upon the people you connect with via word of mouth marketing, you can start to build a network of speaking and speaking-adjacent connections. We call speaking a “relationships business” for a reason! Forging connections with other speakers or people who may hire speakers will pay off in the long term even if it doesn’t in the short term.

Don’t be afraid of approaching other speakers and soliciting their advice or mentorship! Speakers tend to be supportive rather than competitive because every professional speaker has their own niche and a limited bandwidth for gigs; supporting your endeavor does not negatively affect their own. 

Digital Marketing

Finally, like any business in the 21st century, becoming a successful public speaker requires creating a good impression online. Choose one or two avenues to really focus on based on where the event planners and audience members in your niche seem active. It’s much better to have a distinct presence on one social media platform than sporadic activity across several. We also recommend you start building your email list now even if the only subscribers are your spouse and college roommate. That way, when you scale your business and offer other products, you already have a solid fanbase! 

4. Generate Leads

At this point, you’re probably wondering when we’ll start talking about getting booked and paid to speak. The tips we’ve covered so far for how to become a public speaker are all about prep work, not on-the-ground strategy! Well, we’ve arrived. It’s time to start finding leads.

Lead generation means looking up events in your niche, finding the point person, and putting their name and contact information into a spreadsheet, CRM, or other organized database. (We’ll cover reaching out to them next.) Lead generation is one of the key steps of how to become a speaker that while unglamorous, will lay the foundation for a sustainable business.  This step is a nonnegotiable. 

Prospecting for leads can be incredibly boring and anything but fun. In fact, you might be tempted to automate or outsource this from the beginning. However, until you are a well-established speaker, we highly encourage you to do 30-60 minutes of lead generation yourself every day. We get it, plodding through Google search results and website directories is anything but fun. But this process is key to figuring out your place in the public speaking industry. Whether you’re giving motivational speeches to college students or research-heavy lectures to academics, seeing for yourself the landscape of events in your industry, who they’re hiring, and who’s doing the hiring is incredibly useful. The trial and error of this process will help you figure out your “ideal client” far more quickly than if someone else is doing the prospecting. 

5. Initiate Contact Strategy 

Once you have input your contacts into your database of choice, it’s time to reach out. Get ready for some disappointment during this phase, because you probably won’t hear back from most of your leads at first. Lead generation and contact strategy don’t ensure immediate returns, but they do ensure exhaustive reach and constant refinement. As you reach out to lead after lead, event planner after event planner, eventually you will start hitting the contacts who are a good fit for your speaking business. Then, you can adapt your strategy to keep researching and finding other leads like them. 

Your initial email should aim to be helpful (not just a sales pitch) alongside expressing interest in speaking at the event and presenting your speaking credentials. If you don’t get a response right away, try again in a week or two, and repeat until you are absolutely certain you are not hearing back. We have a whole podcast episode on the art of following up that you can turn to for more resources on this process. 

If you get an immediate response that you’re not a good fit or they’ve hired someone else, that’s ok! You’ve accomplished an important feat of marketing by putting your name into the periphery of an event planner’s world. They might not be able to hire you now, but what about next year? 

And if you get a positive response? It’s time to schedule a call. 

6. Call your Contacts

While some public speakers do book gigs consistently via email, we tend to harp on the importance of calling your clients in real time. Part of the reason is simple; they are hiring you to speak, so hearing your voice will make it much easier to come to a decision. This “discovery call” allows you and your client to get everything out in the open all at once. Email can result in painfully slow back-and-forth, stretching out your time to locking down the gig.

During the first call, you should communicate the range of topics you speak about, a general idea of your fees, and your availability for the event in question. You get to ask questions too–about the nature of the event, time constraints, technology available, and any other important expectations. This call is a chance for you to make a great first impression and for both sides to get a feel for the viability of a speaker-client relationship. 

During this sensitive phase of client communication, remember to always give the impression that your contact’s event is the most important event on your radar. If you’re burned out from prospecting, don’t let it show. You never know which client is going to be “the one” you’ve been looking for until you give each prospect your best effort. 

7. Proposal and Contract

Once you get a client on the phone and they express interest, it’s time to hammer out the details. Your speaker one sheet helps your client decide if you’re a good fit–this should be included in your early emails. Your proposal is the next step. It should be tailored to the client and clear about your fees, time commitment, and any perks you want included. This is the document that your client will use as the basis for hiring you–including presenting the case for hiring you to any other decision makers.

You might need to negotiate a bit before your proposal is accepted. Maybe your potential client doesn’t have the money to pay for your travel, but will let you make a pitch for your book or other product at the end of your talk. Maybe they don’t have any money, but they have a professional photographer who will provide you some great action shots. Don’t underestimate these free speaking opportunities if you are in the early stages of your career! Once you iron out these wrinkles, you can integrate any updates into your speaking contract. 

While your client might have a contract they want you to sign, it’s always good to have them sign your speaking contract too. After all, learning how to become a public speaker is learning how to run a business. Using a contract template unique to your public speaking business will help with record keeping as you get more and more clients. 

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So you’ve gotten hired for a speaking engagement. Now what? It’s time to practice, practice, and practice. If you were hired to deliver your signature talk that we discussed above, the bulk of the content is done already. But every audience wants to feel like they are listening to a speech written just for them. Make intentional, deliberate updates that fit your talk to the industry and specific audience you’re speaking to. For example, you could give basically the same speech to a group of CEOs and a group of new hires. But if you use a lot of leadership jargon with the new hires or throw in advice for how to climb the career ladder with the CEOs, your speech will fall flat. 

What are some ways you can tailor your speech to your audience? Geography-specific jokes. Personal stories that relate to something you have in common with your audience. Examples of past clients or projects where you accomplished the transformation your audience wants to achieve. Get creative and try different things!

Your client will expect consistent communication with you leading up to the event about logistics. They will need an event program bio and headshot. You will probably have to send your slides ahead of time, if you use them. And most importantly, get on the same page about technology (adapters, microphones, cables etc.) and bring duplicates or extras of anything you can. Many great speeches have been interrupted and derailed by minor technological disasters. Aim to deliver your speech and make an impact whether or not the lights go out halfway through.  

Try to create a routine of practicing, hyping yourself up, and getting in the zone before you speak. Figure out what creates the optimal environment the day-of and replicate it as much as possible at subsequent speaking engagements. Then get out there and speak!

There’s only so much advice we can give to excel on the stage. W e do have some great tips for content and delivery here . Ultimately, you will probably flop a few times. As you get more and more comfortable on stage you will grow more and more confident with each successive speaking gig.

Conclusion 

These eight steps cover just about every aspect of how to become a public speaker. Of course, becoming a professional speaker requires a great deal of time, strategy, and trial and error for each step. You might think you have your assets squared up, and then get feedback from a potential client that your website looks unprofessional. Don’t be discouraged by these experiences! Instead, look at them as opportunities to grow and differentiate yourself from the competition by improving. And if you want a clearer roadmap to speaker success, we’re always happy to help. 

• Last Updated: May 30, 2024

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in BE A MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

How to Create a 12-month Paid Public Speaking Business Plan

Last updated on January 22nd, 2019 at 01:50 pm

Creating Clarity and Purpose for Your Public Speaking Business Plan in 12 Months

Clarity and Purpose are two important words for paid motivational speakers–get used to these two words if your dream is to be one. Public speaking is a hard enough business, but not knowing where you are going (or why) makes it all the more difficult.

Every 12 months I create a new plan that helps me focus on what needs to be done to improve my speaking business in the year ahead.

These are the 8 steps I take to run my speaking business instead of letting my speaking business run me:

1. what didn’t work over the last 12 months..

I look at the past 12 months to see what activities bring me closer to my goals, and what activities distract me from them. I have specific goals and projects, both personal and professional, and I evaluate the time and energy I spend doing them.  When I do this I determine the things that are sucking on my time instead of feeding my goals .

I create a plan to handle these types of distractions for the next 12 months or to eliminate them entirely.

2. What Did Work Over The Last 12 Months.

I look at what forces drive business to me over the last 12 months in all the areas where I generate income–to make sure I keep doing the good ones and maybe even improve on them.

Build upon success.

3. The Joy Piece.

I’ve always focused on what I need to do to drive my business. But in looking back at the past 12 months, I see that I need to focus more on what really, really brings me joy in my business. Writing a novel doesn’t make business sense when you look at my public speaking brand. But the very idea of it lights me up from the inside out.

I’ve chosen to write joy into this dream plan for the next 12 months–for no other reason than joy for joy’s sake. And, who knows, maybe it will turn out to be a smart business decision. Don’t know; don’t care.

4. New Ideas for Growth.

I look at any new ideas that may help me reach my goals and whether I have room to add them to the list. I’ve learned that if you try to do too much, you don’t really get anything done well.

Prioritize the new.

5. Overhead.

I look at the money I’ve made and the money I’ve spent to determine whether any changes need to be made in my business finances. It’s not really about how much you make, it’s about how much you keep.

Budgets help keep you focused and motivated.

6. Five Buckets.

I determine everything I need to do and continue to do and sort them into five major categories or buckets (e.g. Close More Sales, Leverage Current Customers, Sell More Product, etc.).   Then under each bucket, I create a strategy to accomplish them over the course of 12 months.

“All you need is the plan, the roadmap, and the courage to press on to your destination.” –Earl Nightingale.

7. Weekly Processes.

I determine how many hours I want to allocate to each bucket per week. This will become my weekly homework. All tasks MUST be on this list, or they get moved to another 12 months down the road. These buckets are locked in.  Everything else must wait until homework is done.

This is new for me. I’m used to having big business plans, and I’m used to working hard. But I kept being overwhelmed each day. There is too much to do and every project seems big, so I never get to the big ones and I focus on tiny projects that are never in my original 12-month business plan.

Over the next 12 months, I’ll be more focused on the tasks I have chosen, and I have a way to divert all other things until I’m ready to look at them.

8. Systems.

I tweak my inner office systems to fit this new laser-focus goal.  I don’t like to see emails stack up, so I know they’ll sit there taunting me all day, reminding me that people are asking for things. I create a system to get them out of the email and off to somewhere else. Details aren’t important.

The point is that I’ve allowed emails to rule my days, leaving me no time or energy for the stuff that matters most.

My 12-month plan is already working! By pinpointing where my distractions are coming from, and crafting a workable weekly checklist where I simply work my way through the list, I accomplish my priorities. Now, if I can just keep it up.  As with any plan, creating the plan is the easy part; following it is key!

Create a 12-month plan for your public speaking career and may it help you find clarity, purpose, and more income too.

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Kelly Swanson is an award-winning storyteller, comedian, motivational speaker, Huffington Post Contributor, and cast member of The Fashion Hero television show airing on Amazon Prime. She is also the author of Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale, The Land of If Only, The Story Formula, and The Affirmation Journal for Positive Thinking. She was a featured entertainer for Holland America Cruise Lines, keynote speaker for the International Toastmasters Convention, and has keynoted major conferences and corporate events from coast to coast. She just launched her one-woman show Who Hijacked My Fairy Tale in theaters, and it is being booked all over the country. In July of 2022, she was inducted into the National Speakers Association Speaker Hall of Fame.

Note: Articles by Kelly may contain affiliate links and may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on an affiliate link.

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How to Start My Own Public Speaking Company

Starting your own public-speaking company can be a rewarding experience. A public-speaking company will give you the opportunity to speak in front of a wide diverse group of people from industry professionals, clubs and nonprofit organizations. Starting a public-speaking business gives you the opportunity to meet potential clients, establish credibility and set your own fees.

• Before starting your new business, hone your speaking skills. Prepare yourself for your speeches by practicing and studying the principles of speechwriting and public speaking. Write original material or an original angle on your material. Ask yourself if this material has been done before or if it has been said this way, and be sure to practice, practice, practice.Prepare a brochure on your company. Including your biographical information and professional background. Mention articles that you've written, and industries you have spoken to. Include your photo in the brochure.
• Establish your client base. Speak to as many people and groups as you can. This not only helps you financially but gives you practice and helps improve your presentation skills. Speak at clubs, professional organizations and nonprofit organizations to promote your business. Network after your speech by passing out business cards, brochures and you can talk to people after your speech. Ask for referrals after giving a speech. Ask for pro-bono work when you are first starting out because it may produce future business.
• Gain expertise on a particular topic. Research as much as you can so you establish yourself as a go-to expert on the subject. Write articles and send queries to trade journals and business publications to get noticed. Writing articles helps to get your name in front of your audience and is a form of public relations.
• Acquire a "Doing Business As," DBA. Register a legal name for your business if you are going to use a name other than your own name. Apply for the DBA with a registration form with your state and local government. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service if you have hired employees. You can work from a home office to keep your expenses low. Install a second phone line as your office phone and design letterhead stationary, business cards, and a website.
• Set up a checking account for your new public-speaking company. Print business cards. Start a website that you can direct clients to with your contact information. Make it easy for prospects to get in touch with you on your website by providing an email address and phone number in case they want to book you for a future speech.

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• Inc; Consider a Career in Public Speaking; Patricia Fripp; 2000
• Entrepreneur; How to Get Started in Public Speaking; Christopher Witt; 2004
• SBA: 5 Steps to Registering Your Business

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• Join your local Chamber of Commerce to increase your opportunities and to network with other small businesses.

Lanee' Blunt has been writing professionally since 1997. As a freelance copywriter for advertising, public relations and articles, she has handled projects in accounting, mortgages, contracting services and other industries. Blunt holds a bachelor's degree in business administration, as well as several writing certificates.

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Speaker Business Plan Sample

Published Oct.02, 2015

Updated Sep.15, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

Average rating 4.8 / 5. Vote count: 4

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Table of Content

Making a Good Impression: Speaker business plan

There is always a market for good speakers, but the targeted market depends on the type of speeches or presentations delivered. There are four types of public speaking, and the speaker business plan will first identify the speech types in the Executive Summary that the entrepreneur plans on delivering.

• Informative – sharing knowledge and expertise in a particular area • Entertaining – designed to amuse, divert, or please listeners • Persuasive – convince listeners to adopt a particular belief, act in a certain manner, or agree with a particular opinion • Inspirational – motivational speech that inspires the audience

Due to technology, speakers are not limited to live presentations. There are speaker businesses that record and sell presentations that are downloadable or sold on CDs. Another approach to the speaker business is to write and sell speeches that others deliver.

More Than One Way

The design of the business will determine how much funding is needed. A business comprised of one speaker – the business owner – who only delivers material in person at workshops, conventions, or other venues, needs a strong marketing plan that builds a network of referrals. Businesses that offer speaking engagements and sell recorded speeches will need high quality recording equipments and a solid marketing plan. Successful speaking businesses can also eventually branch out into franchising.

The speaking industry is highly competitive because it has low barriers to entry. Typically, entrepreneurs that apply for funding need financing to purchase high-quality recording equipment and money for marketing. The speaker business plan will:

• Describe the type of speech material • Describe the entrepreneur’s expertise that is marketable through speeches and presentations • Identify the target market, which includes businesses, public conventions and trade shows, government agencies, nonprofits including religious organizations, schools, libraries, and other venues • Include a marketing plan that packages, prices, promotes, and sells the speaker’s expertise through a website, networking, personal selling, advertising, and joining a speaker’s bureau • Identify the cities, regions, and/or countries the speaker will target for sales • If applicable, address plans for growth by adding new speakers • Identify competitors and what differentiates the speaker from others • Develop a five-year projected financial plan that includes projected fees, and travel expenses and other expenses

Every Business Needs a Speaker Business Plan

Whatever business structure is chosen, investors will assess the new enterprise based on its ability to achieve profitability within a reasonable period of times. If no investors are needed at startup, it is still important to develop a solid business plan. The speaker business plan is a guide for decision-making to keep the business on-mission.

OGS Capital professional business plan writers help entrepreneurs get their businesses up and running by sharing industry expertise and knowledge during business plan development. If it is time to pursue business goals, complete and submit the short online contact form.

Download Speaker Business Plan Sample in pdf

OGS capital professional writers specialized also in themes such as define a strategic plan , wedding planning business startup , business plan for music festival , business plan for a funeral home , business plan for an event planner , etc.

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rated document, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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How to Land Your First Paid Speaking Gig

by Dorie Clark

Summary .   

Public speaking tends to be a love-or-hate pursuit. Some professionals loathe the prospect, wishing it weren’t required of them. Others dream of developing a paid speaking career on the side. If you fall into the latter category, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, speaking bureaus won’t help you until you reach a certain threshold of price and popularity. So focus instead on inbound marketing techniques. Ask contacts who already know and like you to recommend you as a speaker. And create content that will attract potential clients to you. Also be willing to speak for free. The more experience you have, the more chances you’ll have to hone your style and become excellent onstage (and worthy of being paid). And free talks, if well chosen, can still be valuable for you for other reasons, such as networking and exposure to potential clients.

Public speaking tends to be a love-or-hate pursuit. Some professionals loathe the prospect , wishing it weren’t required of them. Others — and I hear from many – dream of developing a paid speaking career on the side.

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Motivational Speaking Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans » Education Sector

Are you about starting a motivational speaking company? If YES, here is a complete sample motivational speaking business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a motivational speaking business. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample motivational speaking business marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for motivational speaking businesses. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

One of the easiest routes to becoming an entrepreneur would be to leverage your in-built skills and talents to launch a business. One of the businesses that you can successfully start from your in-built skills and talents is a motivational speaking company.

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A motivational speaking company is a company that provides training and coaching to corporate organizations, educational institutions, youth organizations and individuals. A motivational speaking company is a resource company that can either be a one man show or an assemblage of motivational speakers and trainers in different fields.

The motivational speaking company is classified under the business coaching industry, and the industry is indeed a big and thriving industry in the united states of America and most countries of the world. Just like most businesses, the motivational speaking business is open for as many people that are interested in the industry as long as you have what it takes to provide the resources that your clients want.

Even if you don’t have the finance and other requirements for starting a standard motivational speaking company with loads of certified motivational speakers and training specialists under your payroll, you can come into the industry as a one-man motivational company especially if you are a born motivator.

If you have decided to start a motivational speaking company, then you must make sure that you carry out thorough feasibility studies and market survey. This will enable you to locate the business in a community or city that can readily accept your services and adequately reward you for it.

Below is a sample motivational speaking company business plan template that will guide you towards writing your own and ultimately launching your own business.

A Sample Motivational Speaking Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Motivational speaking company is part of the business coaching industry and the industry includes companies that offer motivational speeches, pep – talk, public speaking, short duration courses and seminars for management and professional development and of course schools and individuals.

Training is provided through public courses or through employers’ training programs, and the courses can be customized or modified. Instruction may be provided at the company’s training facilities, client or educational institutions, the workplace or the home and via television or the internet et al.

If you are an observer of the Business Coaching industry, you will agree that the industry relies on demand from its largest market, the middle and senior management of US corporations, which left it vulnerable to declining corporate profit. During the period where businesses cut back on nonessential expenses, including employee business coaching programs, the industry diminished.

Small operators, which represent the majority of industry players, were particularly hurt by falling demand, with some being forced to leave the industry in response to poor operating conditions. But, improving corporate profit and employment rates are expected to increase the number of organizations in the industry.

The Business Coaching industry that motivational speaking is a part of is indeed a large industry and pretty much active in most countries of the world.

Statistics has it that in the United States of America alone, there are about 51,094 registered and licensed business coaching companies (motivational speaking companies) scattered all across the United States responsible for employing about 91,971 and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $11 billion annually.

The industry is projected to grow at 2.6 percent annual growth within 2011 and 2016. It is important to state that there are no establishments in this industry that has a lion market share. A recent report published by IBISWorld shows that in 2016, the two largest companies account for less than 5.0 percent of industry revenue.

As a result, the Business Coaching industry is highly fragmented, with a large number of small enterprises operating throughout the United States. The vast majority of operators are non – employers that service only their local area. Non – employing businesses represent more than 85.0 percent of all companies operating in this industry.

The report further stated that there is also a large number of operators that have a relatively small number of employees. 72.8 percent of employing companies have fewer than five employees, while companies with fewer than 10 employees represent 85.2 percent of employing enterprises.

The business coaching industry and motivational speaking business will continue to blossom because more and more organizations, businesses and individuals are beginning to realize that somehow, they would need the services of employment motivational speakers to help them stay motivated, achieve their goals and live a fulfilled life.

From all available statistics, it is safer to say the business coaching industry is growing steadily despite the competitive nature of the industry. One thing is certain, if you are well positioned, you have the required business skills, networks and you have a robust assemblage of motivational speakers under your payroll or as partners, you are likely not going to struggle to compete favorable in the business coaching industry.

Another reason why people prefer to start a motivational speaking business is that a motivational speaker, public speaker or trainer has the monopoly to charge fees as it suits them especially if they are have been able to pay their dues in the industry.

Other factors that encourage entrepreneurs to start their own motivational speaking company is that the business is easy to set up and the startup capital is indeed affordable; you can actually start your own motivational speaking company from the comfort of your house. All you need to do is to create an office somewhere in your house. People usually pay you for the services you render.

2. Executive Summary

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is a licensed motivational speaking company that is specialized in helping her clients achieve their life and business goals, improving their competence, capacity and overall productivity.

The our business offerings cover areas such as motivational speeches, pep – talk, public speaking, business coaching, management development training, professional development training, and quality assurance training. Our business will be located in a business district in Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena – California, United States of America.

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is a client-focused and result driven motivational speaking company that provides broad – based motivational speeches and learning approaches at an affordable fee that won’t in any way put a hole in the pocket of our clients.

At Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP, our clients’ overall best interest would always come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics. We will ensure that we hire professional and certified business coaches and trainers with various skill sets who are passionate about helping our clients achieve their life, personal, career and business goals.

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP will at all times demonstrate her commitment to sustainability, both individually and as a motivational speaking organization, by actively participating in our communities and integrating sustainable business practices wherever possible. We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our clients’ needs precisely and completely.

Our overall business goal is to position our motivational speaking company to become the leading motivational speaking brand in the business coaching industry in the whole of Pasadena – California, United States of America, and also to be amongst the top 10 motivational speaking companies in the United States of America within the first 5 years of operation.

might look too tall a dream but we are optimistic that this will surely come to pass because we have done our research and feasibility studies and we are enthusiastic and confident that Pasadena is the right place to launch our motivational speaking business.

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is founded by Bob Russel and he will run the business with other business partners. Bob has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Arkansas and an MBA in Finance from the University of Tulsa. Bob hails from Brooklyn, New York and he began his career at National Speakers Academy as an intern.

He was also an assistant manager and then a training manger. Bob Russel is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP™ Certification) | National Speakers Association (NSA), Certified Public Speaker, Business Coach Certification – World Coach Institute, he attended Life and Business Coach Training Certification Program approved by International Coach Federation and he is a member of the International Coach Federation –ICF.

3. Our Products and Services

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is going to offer varieties of motivational speaking services within the scope of the business coaching industry in the United States of America. Our intention of starting our motivational speaking company is to help our clients achieve their overall life, family, career and business goals and improving their competence, capacity and productivity and of course to also make profits from the industry.

Aside from delivering motivational speeches/talks, public speaking and pep talks, we will also specialize in all of the under listed;

• Providing management development training
• Providing marketing and sales training
• Providing professional development training
• Providing quality assurance training
• Providing business coaching

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to build a highly competitive and effective motivational speaking business that will become the number one choice for individuals, start -ups and corporate organizations in Pasadena – California and the whole of the United States of America.
• Our mission is to provide affordable and highly effective motivational speaking services to a wide range of clients that cut across different divides. Our overall business goal is to position Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP to become one of the leading motivational speaking brands in the industry in the whole of Pasadena – California.

Our Business Structure

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP, intends starting small in Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena – California, but hopes to grow big in order to compete favorably with leading motivational speaking companies in the industry both in the United States and on a global stage.

We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the kind of world class business we want to own. This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operation.

At Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, passionate, result driven, and customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff / partners and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Principal Partner / Chief Executive Officer
• Motivational Speakers and Trainers
• Accountant/Bursar

Marketing Executive

Client Service Executive

• Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Principle Partner / Chief Executive Officer:

• Grows management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results
• Answerable for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Accountable for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Office Administrator

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP
• Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of the organizations’ Policies, Procedures and Processes
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily activities of Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP

Motivational Speakers/Trainers

• Accountable for delivering motivational speeches/talks, public speaking and pep talks
• In charge of providing management development training
• Responsible for providing marketing and sales training
• Responsible for providing professional development training
• Responsible for providing quality assurance training
• Answerable for providing business coaching services
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new clients, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts
• Writing winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the organization.
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• In authority of administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP
• Serves as internal auditor for Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP
• Welcomes clients and visitors by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the principal partners in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries
• Receives parcels/documents for Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP

6. SWOT Analysis

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP engaged the services of a professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured motivational speaking business that can favorably compete in the coaching industry in the United States.

Part of what the consultant did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a SWOT analysis for Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP;

Our strength as an organization is tied to our team; our workforce. We have a team that are considered experts in the industry, a team with excellent qualifications and experience in motivational speaking. Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected team and our strong online presence, Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is well positioned in a community with the right demography and we know we will attract loads of clients from the first day we open our doors for business.

As a new motivational speaking company in Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena – California, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and gain acceptance especially from top profile clients in the already saturated business coaching industry; that is perhaps our major weakness.

• Opportunities:

No doubt, the opportunities in the business coaching industry is massive considering the number of individuals, startups and corporate organizations that would want to achieve their life and business goals and to perform excellently in their various industries. As a standard motivational speaking company, we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that comes our way.

Some of the threats that we are likely going to face as a motivational speaking company operating in the United States of America are unfavorable government policies that might affect businesses such as ours, the arrival of a competitor within our location of operation and global economic downturn which usually affects spending/purchasing power especially as relates to the kind of services we offer. There is hardly anything we can do as regards these threats other than to be optimistic that things will continue to work for our good.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

One thing is certain, the trend in the business coaching industry is such that if you want to be ahead of your competitors, you should be able to acquire as much certifications as possible and you should be able to have loads of testimonies from your clients

The truth is that if your clients experience huge differences in their lives, career and business as a result of hiring the services of your organization, then they will be compelled to help promote your organization. External factors such as Corporate profit and Per capita disposable income in the Business Coaching industry will definitely impact the overall performance in this industry.

Another notable trend in this industry is the influence of technology; the advent of technology is responsible for the increase in income generated by motivational speakers all over the world. With technology, it is now easier for motivational speakers to motivate and train clients that are thousands of kilometers away from them. Tools like video calling/Skype, YouTube, DVDs and Webcast et al are being used by motivational speakers to motivate cum train clients in different parts of the world.

8. Our Target Market

The target market for a motivational speaking company is all encompassing. Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is a licensed motivational speaking company that is specialized in helping her clients achieve their goals and improve their competence, capacity and productivity.

As a standard motivational speaking company, Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP offers a wide range of motivational speaking services, hence we are trained and equipped to service a wide range of clients. Below is a list of the clients that we have specifically designed our motivational speaking services for;

• Corporate Organizations
• Religious Organizations
• Political Parties/Politicians
• Hotels and Restaurants
• The Government (Public Sector)
• Schools (High Schools, Colleges and Universities)
• Sport Organizations
• Entrepreneurs and Startups

Our competitive advantage

The business coaching industry is indeed a very prolific and highly competitive industry. Clients will only hire your services if they know that you can help them achieve their career and business goals. It is the practice for motivational speakers to acquire as much certifications as it relates to their area of specialization; it is part of what will make them stay competitive in the industry

We are quite aware that to be highly competitive in the business coaching industry means that you should be able to deliver consistent quality service, your clients should be able to experience remarkable difference and improvement and you should be able to meet the expectations of your clients at all times.

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP might be new in Pasadena – California, but our management team is licensed and highly qualified motivational speakers and trainers that can successfully build soft skills in people with zero proficiency. These are part of what will count as a competitive advantage for us.

So also, we have a very strong online presence that will enable us motivate and train clients in different parts of the world from our online portals.

Lastly, our motivational speakers and trainers will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the business coaching industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to attract clients on a regular basis.

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP will generate income by offering the following training/coaching services;

• Delivering motivational speeches / talks, public speaking and pep talks

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain, there would always be individuals and organizations that would need our training in other for them to achieve their life, career and business goals. This is the major reason why the services of motivational speakers will always be needed.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in Pasadena – California and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income/profits from the first six months of operation and grow our motivational speaking company.

We have been able to examine the motivational speaking market, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. Below is the sales projection for Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP, it is based on the location of our motivational speaking company and of course the wide range of training and motivation speaking services that we will be offering;

• First Fiscal Year: $200,000
• Second Fiscal Year: $350,000
• Third Fiscal Year: $750,000

N.B : This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall goal of Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP. We want to build a standard and first – class motivational speaking business that will leverage on word of mouth advertisement from satisfied clients.

Our goal is to grow Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP to become one of the top 10 motivational speaking companies in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategies that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena – California but also in other cities in the United States of America.

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our motivational speaking company by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, starups and key stake holders in and around Pasadena – California.
• Print out fliers and business cards and strategically drop them in offices, libraries, public facilities and train stations et al.
• Use friends and family to spread word about our motivational speaking company
• Post information about our motivational speaking company on bulletin boards in places like schools, libraries, and local coffee shops.
• Placing a small or classified advertisement in the newspaper, or local publication about our motivational speaking company
• Advertise our motivational speaking company in relevant educational magazines, newspapers, TV and radio stations.
• Attend relevant educational expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
• Engage in direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our brand and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market. We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate and private clients in the whole of Pasadena – California which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our business.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP;

• Place adverts on both print (community based newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events/programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook, twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our brand
• Install our billboards in strategic locations all around Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena – California.
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• List our motivational speaking company on local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our motivational speaking company in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our personal trainers, motivational speakers and staff wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are branded with our organizations’ logo

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Generally, training and motivational speaking businesses bill both per hour and flat fees on a weekly or monthly basis. As a result of this, Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP will charge our clients flat fees except for few occasion where there will be need for us to charge special clients on hourly basis.

At Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP we will keep our fees below the average market rate by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our clients at regular intervals.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via mobile money
• Payment via Point of Sales Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via check

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our clients make payment for services rendered without any stress on their part.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

On the average, starting a motivational speaking company can be cost effective because on the average, you are not expected to acquire expensive machines and equipment. What you should be concerned about is the amount needed to secure a standard office facility in a good and busy business district, the amount needed to equip the office, pay bills, promote the business and obtain the appropriate business license and certifications.

However, this is what it would cost us to start our own standard motivational speaking company in the United of America;

• Business incorporating fees in the United States of America will cost – $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license will cost – $3,500
• Acquiring an office space that will accommodate the number of employees we intend employing for at least 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive) will cost – $35,000.
• Equipping the office (computers, printers, projectors, markers, pens and pencils, furniture, telephones, filing cabinets, and electronics) will cost – $10,000
• Launching an official website will cost – $500
• Amount need to pay bills and staff members for at least 2 to 3 months – $70,000
• Additional Expenditure such as Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions will cost – $5,000
• Miscellaneous – $5,000

While a motivational speaking company might not have to incur all these expenses but going by the above report, we will need an average of $200,000 to start a medium scale but standard motivational speaking business in the United States of America.

Generating Startup Capital for Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company is owned by Bob Russel and other business partners. They decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital for the business to just three major sources.

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings and sale of stocks
• Generate part of the startup capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B : We have been able to generate about $50,000 (Personal savings $35,000 and soft loan from family members $15,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of their employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business, then it won’t be too long before the business closes shop.

One of our major goals of starting Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to offer our motivational speaking services a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Bob Russel & Co® Motivational Speaking Company, LLP will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner of our business strategy.

We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check : Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Leasing a standard office facility in a good location plus reconstruction: In progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the startup capital from the founders: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of Logo for the school: Completed
• Printing of Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the business: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the tutorial school in Pasadena – California: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors and key players in various industries: In Progress

How to Craft a Business Plan for Public Speaking Coaching: Key Steps

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Launching a successful public speaking coaching business requires careful planning and preparation. Before diving into your business plan, it's crucial to analyze the market demand , identify your unique value proposition , and determine the necessary resources and expertise . By taking the time to develop a pricing strategy , assess financial viability, and understand legal requirements, you'll set your public speaking coaching services up for long-term success.

Steps Prior To Business Plan Writing

Analyze the market demand and target audience

Analyzing the market demand and identifying your target audience are crucial first steps in developing a successful business plan for your public speaking coaching services. By understanding the current landscape and the needs of your potential clients, you can tailor your offerings to effectively address the market's requirements and position your services for maximum impact.

The public speaking coaching industry has experienced steady growth in recent years, fueled by the increasing demand for effective communication and presentation skills in both personal and professional settings. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global public speaking coaching market is expected to reach $5.2 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 7.8% from 2021 to 2028 . This trend underscores the significant market potential for your public speaking coaching services.

To further refine your target audience, consider factors such as age, career stage, industry, and specific communication challenges. For instance, a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that 80% of employers consider strong public speaking skills a crucial factor in hiring decisions , indicating a substantial demand for coaching services among young professionals and recent graduates.

• Conduct market research to understand the current trends, pain points, and unmet needs in the public speaking coaching industry.
• Analyze demographic data and customer personas to identify your target audience and their specific communication challenges.
• Leverage industry reports, surveys, and client testimonials to gather insights and validate the market demand for your public speaking coaching services.

By thoroughly analyzing the market demand and your target audience, you can develop a tailored business plan that addresses the unique needs of your clients and positions your public speaking coaching services for long-term success.

Identify Your Unique Value Proposition and Competitive Advantages

In the highly competitive world of public speaking coaching, it is essential to clearly define your unique value proposition (UVP) and the competitive advantages that set your business apart. This step is crucial in developing a comprehensive business plan that will resonate with your target audience and position your services for success.

To identify your UVP, start by thoroughly analyzing the market landscape and understanding the needs and pain points of your target audience. According to a recent industry report, the global public speaking coaching market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.5% from 2021 to 2026, reaching a market size of $3.2 billion by 2026 . This presents a significant opportunity, but also highlights the importance of differentiating your services from the competition.

• Conduct market research to understand the unique needs and preferences of your target audience, such as their preferred coaching methods, delivery channels, and pricing expectations.
• Analyze your competitors' offerings, strengths, and weaknesses to identify gaps in the market that you can fill with your unique services.
• Leverage your own expertise, experience, and personal qualities to define what makes your public speaking coaching services truly distinctive and valuable to your clients.

Once you have a clear understanding of your UVP, you can focus on developing your competitive advantages. This may include factors such as your specialized expertise, innovative coaching methodologies, personalized attention, or the use of cutting-edge technology to enhance the client experience. For example, SpeakUp Coaching's unique approach of incorporating virtual reality simulations into their coaching program has been cited as a key differentiator, allowing clients to practice public speaking in a realistic, yet safe, environment.

By clearly articulating your UVP and competitive advantages, you can create a compelling value proposition that will attract and retain your target clients. This will be a crucial element in your business plan, helping you to effectively communicate the unique benefits of your public speaking coaching services and stand out in a crowded market.

Determine the Required Resources and Expertise

Starting a successful public speaking coaching services business requires a careful assessment of the necessary resources and expertise. As you develop your business plan, it's crucial to identify the key elements that will enable you to deliver exceptional services to your clients.

One of the primary considerations is the level of expertise required. Public speaking coaching is a specialized skill , and your coaches must possess a deep understanding of effective communication techniques, presentation strategies, and the ability to tailor their approach to the unique needs of each client. This may involve a combination of formal training, relevant experience, and a proven track record of helping clients achieve their goals .

• Consider hiring coaches with certifications in public speaking, communication, or related fields to ensure a high level of expertise.
• Invest in ongoing training and development opportunities for your coaching staff to keep them up-to-date with the latest techniques and industry trends.
• Establish a rigorous hiring process to identify candidates with the right blend of knowledge, skills, and client-facing abilities.

In addition to the human resources, you'll need to consider the physical and technological resources required to operate your public speaking coaching services business. This may include a dedicated coaching space, audio-visual equipment, and a robust online platform for virtual coaching sessions . Depending on the scope of your services, you may also need to invest in marketing materials, client management software, and other tools to streamline your operations .

• Explore the possibility of renting or leasing a flexible coaching space that can accommodate individual and group sessions.
• Research and invest in high-quality audio-visual equipment, such as microphones, cameras, and video conferencing software, to enhance the virtual coaching experience.
• Evaluate the need for client management software to handle scheduling, billing, and client communication effectively.

Lastly, it's essential to consider the financial resources required to launch and sustain your public speaking coaching services business. This includes initial capital for start-up costs, ongoing operational expenses, and a realistic projection of revenue and profitability . Careful financial planning and budgeting will be crucial to ensuring the long-term viability of your business.

• Estimate start-up costs, such as leasing a coaching space, purchasing equipment, and marketing expenses, to determine the initial capital required.
• Develop a detailed financial plan that includes projected revenue streams, operating costs, and a realistic timeline for achieving profitability.
• Explore funding options, such as small business loans, investors, or personal savings, to secure the necessary financial resources to get your business off the ground.

By thoroughly assessing the required resources and expertise, you can create a solid foundation for your public speaking coaching services business and increase your chances of long-term success . This comprehensive planning process will help you identify and address potential challenges, ensuring that you're well-equipped to deliver exceptional services to your clients.

Develop a Pricing Strategy and Revenue Model

Developing a strategic pricing model and revenue plan is crucial for the success of your public speaking coaching services business. By carefully considering factors such as market demand, competition, and your unique value proposition, you can create a sustainable and profitable pricing structure that resonates with your target audience.

One key factor to consider is the pricing range for similar coaching services in your local market. Conduct thorough market research to understand the prevailing rates and identify any gaps or opportunities. Aim to strike a balance between being competitively priced and ensuring your services are valued for their quality and impact.

When determining your pricing, also take into account the level of expertise and personalized attention you provide. Highly specialized coaches or those with extensive experience can often command premium rates, while entry-level coaches may need to price their services more competitively to build their client base. Additionally, consider offering package deals or tiered pricing options to cater to a diverse range of client budgets and needs.

• Regularly review and adjust your pricing as your business evolves and market conditions change.
• Offer flexible payment plans or discounts to make your services more accessible to a wider range of clients.
• Explore additional revenue streams, such as workshops, webinars, or digital products, to diversify your income and create a more sustainable business model.

In addition to pricing, it's essential to develop a comprehensive revenue model that accounts for your operational expenses, marketing costs, and desired profit margins. Aim for a revenue model that can sustain your business operations and allow for future growth and investment. This may involve a combination of one-on-one coaching sessions, group workshops, and potentially licensing or selling your proprietary coaching materials or methodologies.

By carefully crafting your pricing strategy and revenue model, you can position your public speaking coaching services business for long-term success and ensure that your offerings are both accessible and profitable for your clients and your organization.

Assess the Financial Viability and Potential Risks

Evaluating the financial viability and potential risks is a crucial step in developing a comprehensive business plan for your public speaking coaching services. This assessment will help you understand the financial requirements, potential revenue streams, and identify and mitigate any risks that could impact the long-term success of your business.

To assess the financial viability, start by estimating the startup costs associated with launching your public speaking coaching services. This may include expenses for office space, equipment, marketing, and hiring qualified coaches. Additionally, consider the ongoing operational costs such as salaries, insurance, and administrative expenses.

• Tip: Conduct thorough market research to accurately estimate the startup and operational costs for your public speaking coaching business.

Next, develop a pricing strategy that aligns with the value you provide to your clients. Consider factors such as the average rates in your local market, the level of expertise of your coaches, and the type of coaching services offered. Determine the appropriate pricing structure, whether it's hourly rates, package deals, or a combination of both.

Projecting the potential revenue is crucial to understanding the financial viability of your public speaking coaching services. Based on your target market, estimated client base, and pricing strategy, forecast the expected revenue streams. This will help you create a realistic financial model and assess the overall profitability of your business.

• Tip: Utilize industry benchmarks and data to support your revenue projections and ensure they are realistic.

Identifying and mitigating potential risks is also an essential part of the financial assessment. Consider factors such as changes in market demand, competition, regulatory changes, and unexpected expenses that could impact your business. Develop contingency plans and strategies to address these risks, including building financial reserves and diversifying your revenue streams.

By thoroughly assessing the financial viability and potential risks, you can create a robust business plan that sets your public speaking coaching services up for long-term success. This analysis will help you make informed decisions, secure necessary funding, and navigate the challenges that may arise as you build and grow your coaching business.

Investigate Legal and Regulatory Requirements in Your Area

Before launching your public speaking coaching services business, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the legal and regulatory landscape in your local area. Depending on your location, there may be specific licenses, permits, or certifications required to operate a coaching business. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, penalties, or even the inability to legally conduct your operations.

One of the first steps is to research the business registration and licensing requirements in your city or state. This may include obtaining a general business license, a professional coaching license, or a specific license for providing public speaking coaching services. Additionally, you may need to register your business entity, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC), with the appropriate government agencies.

It's also important to consider any industry-specific regulations or certifications that may apply to your public speaking coaching services. For example, some states or municipalities may have specific guidelines or standards for coaching professionals, such as minimum education or training requirements. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure that your coaching services comply with the necessary standards.

• Consult with a local business attorney or a professional in the coaching industry to understand the legal and regulatory requirements in your area.
• Check with your local chamber of commerce or small business development center for guidance on the necessary licenses and permits.
• Consider obtaining professional liability insurance to protect your coaching business in the event of any legal disputes or claims.

Additionally, you'll need to consider any tax implications and reporting requirements for your public speaking coaching services business. This may include registering for federal, state, and local tax IDs, as well as understanding your obligations for income tax, sales tax, and employment taxes (if you plan to hire employees).

By thoroughly investigating the legal and regulatory requirements in your area, you can ensure that your public speaking coaching services business operates within the bounds of the law and minimizes the risk of costly non-compliance issues. This proactive approach will lay a solid foundation for the successful launch and growth of your coaching business.

Build a Network of Industry Contacts and Potential Partners

Establishing a strong network of industry contacts and potential partners is a crucial step in building a successful public speaking coaching services business. By cultivating relationships with other professionals in the field, you can tap into a wealth of knowledge, resources, and collaboration opportunities that can help propel your business forward.

One key strategy is to actively participate in industry events, conferences, and networking groups. This allows you to connect with other public speaking coaches, trainers, and experts who may be able to provide valuable insights, refer clients, or even collaborate on joint projects. According to a recent survey , 78% of successful coaching business owners attribute a significant portion of their growth to the connections they've made through industry-specific networking.

In addition to networking, consider reaching out to complementary businesses and service providers who cater to your target audience. For example, you might connect with event organizers, corporate training firms, or professional development organizations that could refer clients to your public speaking coaching services. Building these strategic partnerships can not only expand your reach but also enhance the value you can offer to your clients.

• Attend industry events and conferences to connect with potential partners and stay up-to-date on trends in the public speaking coaching industry.
• Reach out to complementary businesses and service providers who serve your target audience and explore opportunities for referrals or joint ventures.
• Leverage your online presence, such as your website and social media channels, to showcase your expertise and attract potential partners and collaborators.

When building your network, it's important to focus on quality over quantity. Seek out individuals and organizations that align with your values, expertise, and target market. Additionally, be proactive in nurturing these relationships over time, as strong partnerships can lead to long-term growth and success for your public speaking coaching services business.

According to a recent industry report, 62% of coaching businesses that have successfully established a network of industry contacts and partners have seen an average 30% increase in their client base over the past 2 years . By dedicating time and effort to building these valuable connections, you can position your public speaking coaching services for sustainable growth and expansion.

Refine Your Service Offerings and Delivery Methods

As you develop your public speaking coaching services business, it's crucial to continuously refine your service offerings and delivery methods to meet the evolving needs of your target audience. This step involves carefully analyzing your market, identifying emerging trends, and adapting your services accordingly.

One key aspect to consider is the range of services you offer. While individual coaching sessions may be the core of your business, you can also explore additional offerings such as group workshops, online courses, webinars, or even customized corporate training programs. By diversifying your service offerings, you can cater to a wider range of clients and increase your revenue potential.

When it comes to delivery methods , it's important to stay agile and innovative. While in-person coaching sessions may be the traditional approach, the rise of remote and virtual communication has opened up new possibilities. Explore the use of video conferencing, online platforms, and even mobile apps to provide a seamless and accessible experience for your clients.

• Continuously research industry trends and client preferences to identify new service opportunities.
• Leverage technology to enhance the delivery of your coaching services and reach a broader audience.
• Solicit feedback from current clients to understand their evolving needs and refine your offerings accordingly.

Another important consideration is the pricing structure of your services. As you refine your offerings, you may need to adjust your pricing to ensure the viability and profitability of your business. Conduct thorough market research to understand the pricing benchmarks in your local area and industry, and then develop a pricing strategy that balances value for your clients and the sustainability of your business.

By continuously refining your service offerings and delivery methods, you can position your public speaking coaching services business for long-term success. Staying agile, innovative, and responsive to your target audience's needs will help you maintain a competitive edge and deliver exceptional value to your clients.

Outline a Clear Vision, Mission, and Goals for the Business

At the heart of a successful public speaking coaching services business lies a well-defined vision, mission, and set of goals. These elements serve as the guiding principles that shape the organization's direction, decision-making, and overall success.

When it comes to defining the vision for your public speaking coaching services, it's crucial to paint a clear picture of the long-term aspirations and the impact you aim to have on your clients. A compelling vision statement should inspire and motivate both your team and your clients. For SpeakUp Coaching , a potential vision statement could be: 'To empower individuals to become confident, captivating public speakers who make a lasting impact on their audiences.'

The mission statement, on the other hand, should concisely articulate the purpose of your business and the core values that drive your actions. It should clearly communicate the unique value proposition you offer to your target market. A well-crafted mission statement for SpeakUp Coaching might be: 'To transform individuals into extraordinary public speakers through personalized coaching, innovative training methods, and a commitment to excellence.'

Alongside the vision and mission, it's essential to establish a set of measurable, time-bound goals that will guide the growth and development of your public speaking coaching services business. These goals should be specific, achievable, and aligned with your overall strategic direction. Some examples of goals for SpeakUp Coaching could include:

• Achieve a 90% client satisfaction rate within the first year of operation
• Expand the client base by 50% in the next 18 months
• Develop and launch 3 new training programs tailored to specific client needs within the next 2 years
• Secure 5 high-profile corporate partnerships to provide coaching services within the next 3 years
• Regularly review and update your vision, mission, and goals to ensure they remain relevant and aligned with the evolving needs of your clients and the public speaking coaching industry.
• Involve your team in the process of defining and refining your vision, mission, and goals to foster a shared sense of purpose and ownership.
• Communicate your vision, mission, and goals clearly and consistently to your clients, partners, and stakeholders to build a strong brand identity and reputation.

By establishing a clear and compelling vision, mission, and set of goals, you can provide a solid foundation for the growth and success of your public speaking coaching services business. These elements will serve as the cornerstones for all your strategic decisions, operational activities, and client engagements, helping to ensure that your business remains focused, innovative, and responsive to the evolving needs of your target market.

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The 13 Step Plan to Getting Started with Public Speaking

In The In-Demand Marketing Agency: How to Use Public Speaking to Become an Agency of Choice by Karl Sakas , you’ll find straightforward, actionable advice on developing your speaking career.

Sakas holds nothing back and I was impressed at how useful the material in this book is even outside of an agency setting.

Not only agency leaders, but any entrepreneur or business leader could use the information from this book to launch a successful speaking career.

Sakas covers the entire process from planning to execution.

How to Create a Speaking Plan

According to Sakas, creating a speaking plan is one of the best ways to quickly grow your career as a public speaker.  

Not only will you be more prepared, but this speaking plan, filled with Sakas' advice, will help you build momentum by giving talks at smaller, intimate venues before building up to larger keynotes.

Below are the guideline Sakas provides for creating a speaking plan. He recommends doing the following tasks over the next 3-12 months:

1. Write an “advance retrospective”

Your advance retrospective is a brief summary about where you intend to be in the future as a speaker and as a business leader.

2. Block-out “heads down” time in your calendar for doing your speaking work

The process of launching your speaking career requires dedicated attention, especially as the skill of public speaking requires refinement on its own. Just like all business endeavors, you need to prioritize more of your time in the beginning if you are to lay a strong foundation. Blocking out this dedicated time will help you do that.

3. Develop titles and blurbs for your highest-potential topics

Whenever you pitch a speaking engagement, you’ll use these titles and blurbs to provide a summary of what could be included in your talk.

Sakas repeatedly emphasizes the value of case studies, so include one if you can.  

Here’s an example of how David Meerman Scott does this on his website:

4. Flesh out your highest-potential talk as an outline

Sakas recommends holding off on creating your full slide deck until you’ve actually got a speaking gig booked. Having a confirmed venue is an instant motivation booster that makes it easier to finish the slides and also allows you to adapt them for that venue and audience.

5. Give your first talk in lower-profile venues

The same way that comics test out new material in small comedy clubs before introducing them to a wide audience, all public speakers should practice their presentation at smaller venues.

Once you’ve gotten your feet wet, you can then use that feedback to make changes and improve your routine.  

After you’ve practiced, you’ll feel more confident presenting in front of your larger audience.

6. Build social proof

Compile a list of testimonials, venues from previous speaking engagements, and an estimate of your “talks per year” count.

Outside of your actual presentations, this social proof along with your speaker resume will make the biggest impact on the quality and quantity of speaking gigs you book.  

For example, motivational speaker and author, Tony Robbins highlights testimonials from high-profile celebrities like Usher, Maria Menounos, and Derek Hough, while Seth Godin mentions his appearances at “Disney, Cadillac, eBay, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Adobe, American Eagle, Eddie Bauer and hundreds of others.”

To continue, click "keep reading" below.

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How to Start a Public Speaking Instruction Business

Public speaking instruction may be one-on-one or in small groups or in larger classrooms. The clients may be preparing to speak for special events, upcoming presentations, or simply become better communicators at their job.

Ready to turn your business idea into a reality? We recommend forming an LLC as it is the most affordable way to protect your personal assets. You can do this yourself or with our trusted partner for a small fee. Northwest ($29 + State Fees) DIY: How to Start an LLC

Start a public speaking instruction business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Public Speaking Instruction Business
• Form your Public Speaking Instruction Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Public Speaking Instruction Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Public Speaking Instruction Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Public Speaking Instruction Business
• Get Public Speaking Instruction Business Insurance
• Define your Public Speaking Instruction Business Brand
• Create your Public Speaking Instruction Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your public speaking instruction business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Public Speaking Instruction Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Find a Domain Now

Powered by godaddy.com, what are the costs involved in opening a public speaking instruction business.

The cost of opening this business is very low. This is because it is possible to start your business from home. You may conduct classes and workshops where clients already are, including at their jobs (corporate speaking workshops can be very popular) and their homes. You may also be able to work with local colleges and libraries to conduct classes and workshops at those places.

With that in mind, you can effectively open your business for $3,000 or less. You should spend around $500 to have a professionally designed website. Spend most of the remaining money on newspaper and radio ads for your business, and don't forget to save some to print out professional business cards you can hand to prospective clients.

What are the ongoing expenses for a public speaking instruction business?

If you are working from home, this job has very few ongoing expenses. You must pay for gasoline to travel from one location to another, and you may periodically invest in additional advertising via radio and newspaper. However, when starting out, you have no expensive lease, no extra utilities, no employees to pay, and no special equipment you must purchase. All of this dramatically reduces your overhead.

Who is the target market?

Some of your best clients will be those in their late 20's or early 30's. This audience is likeliest to have increased speaking responsibilities as part of recent promotions or new jobs but also be worried since they have not done much public speaking since college. This makes them see the value of your classes.

How does a public speaking instruction business make money?

A public speaking instruction business makes money by charging clients for workshops and ongoing lessons in public speaking.

How much you can charge clients depends on your area, your competition, and the exact format of the lesson. Some instructors, for instance, charge $300 for eight four-hour lessons. This provides great value to students, but only offers value to the instructor if you have enough students signed up. Some experienced instructors charge as much as $995 for an intensive, two-day course. Others establish a flat, hourly rate, such as $25 to $30 an hour per person. When pricing, one thing to keep in mind is competition, both from other public speaking instructors and the cost of taking a speech class at the local college or university.

How much profit can a public speaking instruction business make?

How much profit you can make depends on how you charge clients, how much you charge clients, and how many clients you have. If you see twenty clients a week for fifty weeks of the year for four hours a week and $25 an hour, for instance, you will make $100,000 a year. Your first year is less likely to be this profitable, though increased community awareness should lead to increased revenue each year.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Try a business model that encourages multiple sessions that clients pay for upfront. Be sure to include client testimonials on your website and social media pages so that future clients can see how you have helped others. Finally, don't be afraid to charge more as your business becomes more established and you have a portfolio of demonstrated results.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when starting your public speaking instruction business is the importance of establishing a solid business foundation. While sole proprietorships and partnerships are the most common entity types for small businesses, they're a far less stable and advantageous option than LLCs.

This is because unincorporated business structures (i.e., sole proprietorships and partnerships) expose you as an owner to personal liability for your business's debts and legal actions, while LLCs protect you by keeping your personal assets separate from your business's liabilities.

In practice, this means that if your public speaking instruction business were to face a lawsuit or incur any debts, your savings, home, and other personal assets could not be used to cover these costs. On top of this, forming your business as an LLC also helps it to appear more legitimate and trustworthy.

More than 84% of our readers opt to collaborate with a professional LLC formation service to kickstart their venture. We've negotiated a tailored discount for our readers, bringing the total down to just $29.

Form Your LLC Now

Note: If you're interested in more information before getting started, we recommend having a look at our state-specific How to Start an LLC guide (DIY) or our in-depth Best LLC Services review (for those opting for a professional service).

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a public speaking instruction business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits . In addition, certain local licensing or regulatory requirements may apply.

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Public Speaking Instruction Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Public Speaking Instruction Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a public speaking instruction business

Consider offering short, free workshops at libraries and community college campuses that help demonstrate your value. Make sure you have a social media presence so that your business is visible via mobile devices. Try to build a relationship with Human Resources departments so that they can refer you to prospective clients who want to improve their public speaking to get a promotion or new job.

How to keep customers coming back

Between your website, advertising, and social media presence (as well as traditional networking in your community), it should be easy to attract customers. In order to retain them, make sure every lesson ties to the real world in tangible ways. When they see how being a better communicator can help with everything from getting a promotion to improving their love life, they will keep coming back.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

This job is great for those who are good at public speaking. Former teachers do well in this job due to their experience writing and conducting lectures. Writers are also good at this job because part of good speech instruction is knowing which words will have certain effects on certain audiences.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a public speaking instruction business?

Your daily activities include preparing and delivering instruction to clients about how to improve their public speaking. You may also spend time communicating with existing clients and potential clients that have contacted you. You may spend time driving to where clients are and spend downtime both researching public speaking strategies and advertising your business.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful public speaking instruction business?

If it has been a long time, try to take a speech class or two at your local community college to brush up on skills. Sit down with local business managers and ask them what speaking skills they wish their workers had so you can incorporate these into lessons. Finally, make sure to do as much of your own public speaking as you can to build up your own skills and develop stories you can share with students.

What is the growth potential for a public speaking instruction business?

The growth potential of this job is modest. The need for public speaking instruction grows as the businesses requiring these skills grow, and jobs such as “sales representative” (which requires ample speaking) are expected to grow by seven percent between 2014 and 2024.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a public speaking instruction business?

Consider specializing in a certain field such as “corporate leadership.” This can net you ongoing business from multiple corporations in training their executives to improve communication. Take the time to interview speech professors about their teaching strategies and what they have learned. Finally, don't be afraid to start slow and do this as a side business long enough for you to establish your brand within the community.

How and when to build a team

Most public speaking instruction businesses start as solo practices. However, if you build a steady stream of clients and can no longer personally fit them into your schedule, you should take on a partner or build a small team to deliver workshops and lessons.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• MOOC list of public speaking
• 9 places to learn public speaking for free
• National Speaker Association

Real World Examples

• The Eleni Group
• Toastmaster
• Brian Tracy International

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

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The Complete, 20-Step Guide to Ace Public Speaking Public speaking is a valuable skill for entrepreneurs as it can help them effectively communicate their ideas, build credibility and trust with potential investors, partners, and customers, and ultimately grow their businesses. Strong public speaking skills can also enhance an entrepreneur's leadership abilities and overall professional development

By Christopher Massimine Edited by Micah Zimmerman Apr 6, 2023

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

When I was running professional theatrical organizations, public speaking was a huge part of my job. I would be tasked with delivering speeches at various events and to multiple audiences on different topics. Most of the time, I was comfortable giving these talks. I became used to the expectation that I had to deliver information in a clear, articulate way and use my theatrical background to add impact and emotion to my words where necessary.

Now and then, I would get hit with a case of stage fright . Even though I had delivered countless speeches before, something about standing up in front of strangers made me nervous — my palms would start to sweat, and my heart would race.

But when this happened, I always remembered one thing: When it comes to public speaking, it's essential not to be too hard on yourself. Instead of dwelling on potential mistakes or missteps, focus on connecting with your audience and delivering the message you set out to give. After all, if you can relate to them and make an impact through your words, that's what matters most.

While some people are natural-born communicators , others may need to put in a bit more work to hone their skills. If you fall into the latter category, don't worry — with a bit of practice and guidance, you can ace public speaking!

This comprehensive step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to do it. So whether you're starting from scratch or just looking to brush up on your existing skills, read on for everything you need to know about how to ace public speaking.

Related: 10 Tips to Beat Your Fear of Public Speaking

What is public speaking, and why is it important?

Topping the list of worldwide phobias is public speaking anxiety, also known as Glossophobia, impacting somewhere between 73%-77% of the population .

Public speaking is the ability to intelligently communicate an idea, product or service that resonates with audiences and inspires and motivates them to take action.

It can be an invaluable skill that helps you succeed professionally and personally. Studies show that people who are confident speakers are more likely to get a job, earn higher salaries and have better relationships with their peers. Data suggests that communication skills are becoming increasingly important in today's workplace:

• According to the US Department of Labor , 75.3% of workers are required to communicate with the general public; this includes making presentations and delivering public speeches.
• According to a Prezi survey, 70% of Americans who give presentations agree that presentation skills are vital to success.
• A survey by Gallup found that 60% of respondents believe public speaking is the most essential skill for success in their field.

Being successful is all about connecting with people, and public speaking is one of the central tools you need to make those connections. You can share your vision for your business, network with potential investors or partners and win over your audience with compelling stories — but only if you can speak confidently in front of others. With the right tools and guidance, successful public speaking can become second nature and open up s many possibilities.

While it's natural to be intimidated by stepping onto the stage, with the proper preparation and guidance, you'll have the skills necessary to speak up and stand out!

Related: 5 Insider Tips for Improving Your Confidence as a Public Speaker

1. Understand your audience

It's important to know what makes your audience tick. You must be aware of their interests and passions — this will help inform how you speak and allow you to demonstrate a genuine interest in the topic and how it relates to their lives.

Knowing their background, struggles, goals and values allows you to craft messages that captivate your audience, leaving an impactful impression.

2. Define your goal

Knowing precisely what you want to achieve before giving a public speaking engagement can help shape your presentation's overall direction and flow. You'll likely have complex goals , so it pays to take a deeper dive into what you hope to accomplish with your engagement.

Defining your goal upfront — whether touting a new product or inspiring potential investors – will inform other aspects of the speech, such as the content, tone and structure. Ultimately, defining your goal ahead of time allows you to give a practical and concise talk that will leave listeners eager to hear more from you.

3. Research your topic

Whether you're aiming to make a keynote speech or simply presenting your business plan, research is essential to ensure you can convey meaningful information and connection in an engaging way effectively. For public speaking success, it's essential to be well informed on the topic, as it will serve as a foundation for your presentation.

Gathering relevant details enhances your confidence and helps you solidify valuable relationships with your audience. Speakers who take adequate time to research their topic reported higher confidence when delivering their speeches.

As entrepreneurs, we can draw from our own experiences and prepare supplementary resources that can be used as case studies and more.

4. Write an outline (start thinking about visuals)

You'll want to ensure you're speech will be concise, coherent and well-structured . Writing an outline is precisely where you need to start before diving into the script itself. When outlining your talk, break it down into manageable sections so you feel prepared and confident. Spend time researching each point and the supporting materials that will bring your points alive.

Write out a few central talking points for each section. This allows you to refer back to them as needed during the presentation. The outline aims to equip you with enough knowledge so you not only sound conversant on your topic but impress and engage with the audience.

You'll also want to be sure to denote when and where you'll be using visuals within your presentation. According to research , incorporating powerful visuals increases retention rates 6x more than words alone. Moreover, three days following a presentation, 60% of an audience can recall the visuals.

Taking the time to write a comprehensive outline is one of the most ignored elements of successful public speaking for entrepreneurs, but if you break down the process into easily achievable goals, writing the script will be much more powerful, and your anxiety levels will be much lower!

5. Draft a script (open with a relevant story)

Storytelling is a great way to capture your audience's attention. Relevant narratives can help paint a vivid picture of what you are trying to convey, making it easier for everyone to understand.

Consider sprinkling in metaphors, analogies, similes and rhetorical questions within your script. These words will provide a breath of fresh air as they break up the monotony and allow you to express your message in more creative ways that keep it exciting and engaging.

All these literary techniques have proven successful in inspiring audiences and providing them with valuable insights, so take advantage of them!

Related: 3 Timeless Elements of Storytelling That Will Grow Your Business

6. Practice reading the script out loud

As entrepreneurs, it's crucial to be able to use public speaking to advocate for your business goals effectively. A successful and engaging presentation requires practicing with a script beforehand.

A report from the BBC has revealed reading out loud taps into the "production effect," which uncovers any flaws or mispronunciations while improving comprehension. In addition, doing so gives you a chance to get comfortable with the talking points and become proficient in providing powerful and persuasive speeches.

When you practice reading the script, make sure you accentuate key points, pause for emphasis and regulate your breathing to keep a steady pace. This will help project your message more dynamically and give you an air of confidence.

7. Experiment with your voice

As an entrepreneur, one of the essential skills to develop is the ability to confidently and effectively communicate your ideas. With so much riding on you convincing others, investing time in perfecting your public speaking abilities could take you from good to great.

According to Lynn Meade's book Advanced Public Speaking , published by the University of Arkansas, speakers who vary their vocal tones while delivering a speech experience higher engagement from the audience.

Experimenting with your voice will give you the confidence to ensure that your message is not only being heard but being heard clearly and loudly. Having a voice that resonates with authority and clarity sets a positive tone for any presentation and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Related: How to Master the Art of Public Speaking, Even If Your Anxiety Is Through the Roof

8. Incorporate hand gestures and choreographed hand motions

When it comes to public speaking, hand gestures and choreographed motions are significant for engaging an audience. Adding that "wow" factor to your presentation can help keep your audience tuned in as you present. That's why entrepreneurs must incorporate hand gestures and choreographed hand motions into their presentations!

Hand motions will help emphasize the intended points of each topic and will help contribute to a more professional tone of voice when you're presenting in front of large groups of people. According to research from UCLA, 7% of the message comes from words, 36% comes from voice, and 57% comes from nonverbal communication.

9. Get live feedback from a small group if possible

For entrepreneurs looking to master the art of public speaking, getting live feedback from a small group can be an invaluable learning experience. Not only will this help you build confidence and hone your presentation, but it can also alleviate some of those infamous pre-speech nerves.

According to a glance test carried out by Durate in 2022, you have 3 seconds to capture an audience, so getting live feedback is paramount to your speech's success.

Whether it's an audience of two or 20, having a real-time response to what you're saying helps create a more natural environment for you and your listeners. So don't be afraid to pipe up — ask some friends to listen in and take note of their suggestions for improvement as you speak!

10. Revise the script

After fine-tuning your public speaking script and delivering it, you undoubtedly will receive feedback from the audience on how to improve it. Revising the script based on this feedback is essential in becoming an effective public speaker .

Take the time to analyze what worked and what didn't, then adjust your speech accordingly. It's essential to be willing to reflect and make the changes necessary for a stronger presentation next time.

11. Memorize your speech (but don't be afraid to go off script)

When it comes to public speaking, memorizing the speech can be a great way to ensure you cover all the points you need. However, it is also essential to be open to going off script and allowing yourself some flexibility while delivering. It might feel intimidating at first, but you can take advantage of unexpected opportunities, such as audience reactions.

This can help keep your speech engaging and ensure your message resonates with the audience. Practicing your speech beforehand will help create a solid foundation and boost your confidence while permitting you to explore different paths.

A study from Kennesaw State University reveals that audience attention levels spike after the presenter talks off-script.

12. Practice often — when you think you're ready, practice again

When it comes to public speaking, practice does make perfect. It takes 27 seconds for a speaker to make their first impression, so being certain you're ready versus feeling you're ready makes a significant difference. Rehearsing a speech can lead to higher engagement levels among audiences, boosting retention rates for important information shared in the presentation.

It's important to carve out time in your schedule to rehearse and hone your skills. This includes both physical preparations of materials and vocal exercises. Presentations don't always come naturally, but with enough dedication, you'll find yourself on the road to success. If you think you're ready to give a speech, try giving it once more before you take the stage.

13. Allow for questions and prepare answers

According to ZoHo, 25% of any presentation should be allocated to a Q&A. Different audiences can have different questions about a particular topic, so for every presentation given, it's highly advantageous to anticipate potential questions that your audience may ask and come prepared with nuanced answers.

Take the time to brainstorm the top questions related to the content of your presentation, as well as how best to answer those thoughtfully and effectively. Doing this legwork before you present will ensure that you cover all of your bases and situate yourself as an expert in the field you're presenting on.

14. Field questions with a trusted friend/mentor

Practicing your public speaking beforehand is essential when it comes to presenting like a pro. Running through your speech and responses to possible questions is imperative for ensuring your delivery goes smoothly.

Why not give the presentation to someone you trust? Ask for their honest feedback , constructive criticism and input — the more reps in the practice phase, the better equipped you'll be for those real-life talks!

15. Conduct breathing exercises before your speech

Before getting up to present, take a few moments to breathe. Around 75% of people suffer from speech anxiety just before stepping on stage. Deep breaths can help you stay relaxed and warm you up before speaking in front of a room full of people.

Whether you choose to close your eyes and be mindful or do some yoga exercises, these breathing techniques can be an essential part of preparing for public speaking. When it comes to anxiety-inducing tasks like presenting in front of others, established breathing exercises can make all the difference.

16. Present with confidence, but leave arrogance at home

For success as an entrepreneur, you need to be able to deliver a compelling speech that engages the audience. Presenting your ideas with confidence makes you appear more prepared and can help you make the best out of any speaking situation.

With practice and the right tools, presenting with confidence is easily achievable. Yet, while sounding confident is important, it's equally important to leave arrogance at home - an underrated skill that often comes with practice and a dose of humility.

17. Make eye contact and engage

Engaging your audience while you are speaking is essential to public speaking. A fantastic way to do this is to make direct eye contact with different audience members as you deliver your speech. This will capture their attention, allowing them to become invested in what you have to say.

Of course, it can be intimidating to look out into a group of strangers, but that's where introducing humor, dolling out charisma, and keeping your focus on the task at hand can break the ice necessary to keep nerves low and engagement high.

According to research from Corporate Communications Experts, 3 seconds is the "sweet spot" for eye-to-eye engagement.

Related: How to Tell If Someone Is Manipulating You Based on Their Body Language

18. Keep going if you stumble

Public speaking can be stressful, especially for entrepreneurs. Let's be honest: We all experience a few hiccups occasionally. But don't let them trip you up - keep going! If a mistake or slip-up leaves you flustered, take a breath and move on.

So there's no need to apologize. Compose yourself and continue with your presentation. Don't let a misstep or two slow down the momentum of your speech! Fumbles are normal — but they don't have to derail the passion and enthusiasm of your talk.

19. If you go off script, come back to where you left off

Being an entrepreneur is all about being flexible and resilient, which can also be applied to public speaking! Experts agree that going off script establishes rapport with the audience and encourages them to engage with the presenter on a deeper level.

Of course, it's always great to stick to your script for time efficiency, but if you do happen to stray off the path a bit, don't forget to keep track of the time! The last thing you'd want is to lose track of an idea that could've been potentially a room silencer — so jot down any ideas you may have while still under the microscope. Afterward, return to what you discussed before delving into your new concept. This way, your speech or presentation will stay organized and coherent despite occasional variations.

20. Close big and leave them wanting more

As an entrepreneur, perfecting your public speaking skills can be a huge asset. But how do you make sure to finish off with a bang?

A great way to close big is to end your speech with a memorable line that stays in the minds of your audience long after you've left the room. With the proper use of rhetoric and knowing how and when to employ specific tactics such as referencing metaphors, figures of speech, and even humor, you'll have all the tools you need to deliver powerful closing statements every time!

Public speaking is a skill that is often overlooked, but it is crucial for entrepreneurs. By following the above steps, you will be on your way to becoming a public speaking pro in no time! Just remember to be confident (but not arrogant), engage with your audience, and always leave them wanting more.

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10 Tips for Improving Your Public Speaking Skills

Few are immune to the fear of public speaking. Marjorie North offers 10 tips for speakers to calm the nerves and deliverable memorable orations.

Marjorie North

Snakes? Fine. Flying? No problem. Public speaking? Yikes! Just thinking about public speaking — routinely described as one of the greatest (and most common) fears — can make your palms sweat. But there are many ways to tackle this anxiety and learn to deliver a memorable speech.

In part one of this series,  Mastering the Basics of Communication , I shared strategies to improve how you communicate. In part two, How to Communicate More Effectively in the Workplace , I examined how to apply these techniques as you interact with colleagues and supervisors in the workplace. For the third and final part of this series, I’m providing you with public speaking tips that will help reduce your anxiety, dispel myths, and improve your performance.

Here Are My 10 Tips for Public Speaking:

1. nervousness is normal. practice and prepare.

All people feel some physiological reactions like pounding hearts and trembling hands. Do not associate these feelings with the sense that you will perform poorly or make a fool of yourself. Some nerves are good. The adrenaline rush that makes you sweat also makes you more alert and ready to give your best performance.

The best way to overcome anxiety is to prepare, prepare, and prepare some more. Take the time to go over your notes several times. Once you have become comfortable with the material, practice — a lot. Videotape yourself, or get a friend to critique your performance.

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2. Know Your Audience. Your Speech Is About Them, Not You.

Before you begin to craft your message, consider who the message is intended for. Learn as much about your listeners as you can. This will help you determine your choice of words, level of information, organization pattern, and motivational statement.

3. Organize Your Material in the Most Effective Manner to Attain Your Purpose.

Create the framework for your speech. Write down the topic, general purpose, specific purpose, central idea, and main points. Make sure to grab the audience’s attention in the first 30 seconds.

4. Watch for Feedback and Adapt to It.

Keep the focus on the audience. Gauge their reactions, adjust your message, and stay flexible. Delivering a canned speech will guarantee that you lose the attention of or confuse even the most devoted listeners.

5. Let Your Personality Come Through.

Be yourself, don’t become a talking head — in any type of communication. You will establish better credibility if your personality shines through, and your audience will trust what you have to say if they can see you as a real person.

6. Use Humor, Tell Stories, and Use Effective Language.

Inject a funny anecdote in your presentation, and you will certainly grab your audience’s attention. Audiences generally like a personal touch in a speech. A story can provide that.

7. Don’t Read Unless You Have to. Work from an Outline.

Reading from a script or slide fractures the interpersonal connection. By maintaining eye contact with the audience, you keep the focus on yourself and your message. A brief outline can serve to jog your memory and keep you on task.

8. Use Your Voice and Hands Effectively. Omit Nervous Gestures.

Nonverbal communication carries most of the message. Good delivery does not call attention to itself, but instead conveys the speaker’s ideas clearly and without distraction.

9. Grab Attention at the Beginning, and Close with a Dynamic End.

Do you enjoy hearing a speech start with “Today I’m going to talk to you about X”? Most people don’t. Instead, use a startling statistic, an interesting anecdote, or concise quotation. Conclude your speech with a summary and a strong statement that your audience is sure to remember.

10. Use Audiovisual Aids Wisely.

Too many can break the direct connection to the audience, so use them sparingly. They should enhance or clarify your content, or capture and maintain your audience’s attention.

Practice Does Not Make Perfect

Good communication is never perfect, and nobody expects you to be perfect. However, putting in the requisite time to prepare will help you deliver a better speech. You may not be able to shake your nerves entirely, but you can learn to minimize them.

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About the Author

North is a consultant for political candidates, physicians, and lawyers, and runs a private practice specializing in public speaking, and executive communication skills. Previously, she was the clinical director in the department of speech and language pathology and audiology at Northeastern University.

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A great tip for anyone contemplating a vehicle purchase is to ask friends and family members if they are privy to any manufacturer's discount programs that may result in a lower overall price. Many car makers and parts suppliers operate "friends and family" discount programs in which employees can provide others with discount codes that can be used to generate substantial savings on new cars and trucks. Taking advantage of such opportunities is a great way to make your dollar stretch even further at the dealership.

Don't you feel much better about your chances when it comes to purchasing a vehicle now? You should now think about how to apply the information you've learned. Get ready, and go to the dealership like you can tell them how business is done. It's time for you to get the deals you deserve!

Always ask the seller if they are willing to let you do a test drive. While some private sellers may not offer you the chance to do a test drive, there are many that will. You should try to do your deal with someone who will allow you to see how the car runs.

Go into the dealership with a bottom line price in mind. The salesman might try to focus on the monthly payments or financing terms, but your goal should be to get the price you want on the car you want. You can always negotiate the financing terms later, or even finance with your own bank outside of the dealership.

If you are in the market for a used car, you should always get a CarFax report. The CarFax report will let you know if the car has been in an accident. If the car has been in an accident, you probably want to keep searching and not buy that car.

When buying a used car, a great way to tell if the car has been in an accident is to look into the door frames. Usually when a car is repainted, you will notice over spray in this area. This is not proof that a car was in an accident, but it will let you know it was repainted.

You may be at the car lot for a good amount of time when trying to buy a car. You don't want to feel like you're rushed when trying to get comfortable about a deal. You should allocate at least a full afternoon. When you run out of time, leave and come again later.

Have a firm budget set before you go shopping for a new car. You should never purchase a vehicle if you cannot really afford it. The dealer is not the one who will be paying for the car for 6 years, you are.

When you are car shopping, you need to make sure it has plenty of the most important safety features. Never purchase a vehicle that does not have an anti-lock brake system, or ABS. Airbags are also crucial, and your vehicle can never have too many. After all, you'll be in your vehicle alot. Therefore, safety is important.

Search for your new car online before you ever visit a dealership. Searching online allows you to look at inventory from multiple dealerships, and it makes you privy to information about online only pricing. This is a great way to comparison shop and really make sure you are getting the best deal.

A great tip for those looking to buy a used car would be to research what the resale value of the car is. Look at the Kelly Blue Book value and compare it to the condition that the vehicle is currently in to see whether or not the price is fair.

Consider shopping for your new car towards the last week of the month. Most car dealerships have monthly quotas they must reach. Some salespeople want to make a deal because they are desperate to meet their monthly goal.

If you plan to trade in your old car, find out how much it's worth and factor that into your budget. If you think, your car is worth a lot, and it's not, you may be in for a shock when you reach the lot. Knowing as much as possible before you leave your house is the key.

Understand the financing office. Most dealerships make the bulk of their money in the financing office. Your interest rate, extended warranties and other add ons are all sold at a premium once you are in there. Understand this, and select any of those options carefully. Most are not necessary for the average car owner.

When purchasing a car, do not fall for the salesman's ploy that you must make a deal now to get the special pricing. Instead, tell the salesman you are going to get something to eat and will return in an hour. This will allow time for your emotional attachment to lessen making you able to negotiate the best terms and price.

Whenever buying a certified pre-owned vehicle, try and find out what the return policy is, or even if one exists. If one does, make sure you understand how long it is and whether or not you will get registration and licence fees refunded along with sales tax for the vehicle.

If you are considering trading your car in when purchasing a car, you should take your car into a neutral place to get it appraised. You want to be sure that you are getting a fair value for your car when trading it in. Be sure to include an adjustment for what you will be saving regarding taxes.

A Supervisor can lose A great deal of money before suspecting that embezzlement might be happening. That is because by definition that this crime is committed by someone in a position of trust. The loss may involve a tiny amount taken by an employee by the cash register. Or a substantial sum stolen through an elaborate plot of juggling the books. Simple controls Built into the accounting system may often forestall any such practices on your operation. Whatever the case, the proper internal controls may help document incriminating evidence, and it is hard to gauge your loss for insurance purposes or even to establish that it resulted from a crime. This preventing Embezzlement Guide offers suggestions about how it is possible to thwart unethical practices. Additionally, it discusses what you need to do if it appears that one of your employees has embezzled from your business. You may not Have has any expertise with embezzlers. But a lot of owner-managers have. Everyday you will find newspaper stories on how a unethical worker has managed to divert business funds to their own pocket. It happens Frequently enough to make it worth your while to provide the topic some thought and also to examine your record-keeping and auditing procedures to make sure there are no enticing loopholes. Embezzlement is"the Fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted." That is what Makes this offense different from ordinary theft or larceny. The embezzler is somebody in your company whom you are interested. You Want to Have a system of internal control to safeguard money and other property subject to embezzlement. Obviously, no one would like to run a company like an armed camp. But in case you have an integrated control system, manage it closely, and audit it regularly, you may prevent attempts of embezzlement. At any rate, you'll have the means to collect evidence that may expose a crime. Embezzlers Usually believe they are smart - brighter than the owner-manager and adorable enough to beat the machine. Before you set about to outwit them, it Is a Great idea to be familiar with a Number of their approaches The embezzler Is usually a trusted employee who is taking advantage of their company's confidence. Oftentimes the embezzler has been given more power than the position calls for. Approaches of embezzling are limited only by creativity. In the simplest Situation, cash is received along with the employee only pockets it without making a record of the transaction. A theft of this type is hard to prevent or detect if the trade is a cash sale without a following entry is essential in receipt or accounts receivable records. To reduce temptation, prenumbered sales invoices or cash receipts should be used for all sales regardless of the amount. Spot checks and other tracking processes may also help guarantee you that money sales are now being listed. A somewhat more Complicated type of embezzlement is called lapping. This entails the temporary withholding of receipts such as payments on accounts receivable. Lapping is a continuing scheme which usually begins with a little amount but can encounter thousands of dollars until it's detected. For instance, take an employee who opens email or receives checks and cash as payment on open accounts. The worker holds out a 100 dollar cash payment made by customer"A" on March 1. To avoid arousing suspicion on"A's" part, $100 is then taken from a $200 payment made by customer"B" on March 4. This is sent on, along with the necessary documentation, for processing and crediting to the account of"A." The embezzler pockets that the remaining $100, which raises the shortage to $200. As this "borrowing" process continues, the employee makes away with increasingly larger amounts of money involving more and more accounts. A fraud of this nature can run on for years. Of course, it demands detailed record-keeping by the embezzler in order to keep tabs on the deficit and move it from one account to another to prevent suspicion. Any sign that a worker is maintaining personal records of business transactions outside your regular books of accounts ought to be considered. Occasionally an Embezzler who's taking on a lapping scheme also has access to accounts receivable records and statements. In this case, he or she is in a position to change the statements mailed out to clients. Hence the fraud can continue undetected over a long period of time, until something unusual occurs. A customer criticism may indicate the circumstance. Or the matter may be surfaced through audit processes such as confirmation of accounts receivable. 1 embezzler who handled the client complaints managed to avoid detection for many years. The amount of deficit reached such proportions and covered so many accounts that he dared not take a holiday. He even ate lunch in his desk lest some other employee receive a question from a customer concerning a discrepancy in a statement. The owner-manager for whom he labored admired his pursuit and loyalty. Fellow workers marveled that his apparent frugality enable him to enjoy a fairly high standard of living. Nevertheless, the inevitable finally happened. This worker was hospitalized with a severe ailment, and in his absence his fraudulent scheme came to light. 1 reason many companies require regular vacations is to keep some"indispensable man" from dispensing with business funds illegally. Occasionally Company bank accounts are used for check-kiting. In fact, losses from a large check-kiting schemes have been great enough to cause a company to go bankrupt. From the usual Scheme, the check-kiter has to be in the place to write checks on and make Deposits in two or more bank accounts. 1 account could be the embezzler's Private account and another a business checking account. If the embezzler Has an accomplice in another company, two business accounts might be used. If Your company has more than one checking account at different banks, these Accounts might be utilized to carry out the fraud.

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14 ways (introverted) hr leaders can plan for public speaking engagements.

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Company leaders and industry experts may often be called to speak on a regular basis during weekly or monthly company meetings, annual industry conventions, even sometimes giving an intelligent press statement at a moment's notice on behalf of the organization.

However, sharing information with a medium-to-large-sized crowd may be a bit unnerving if you're an introverted manager. That's why 14 Forbes Human Resources Council members offered their top tips to help leaders build confidence and reduce anxiety as they prepare for the next venue.

Forbes Human Resources Council members share their ideas.

1. Prepare Talking Points

Introverted presenters should prepare brief talking points that are not too wordy and cover the main points. It is easier to rehearse, remember and refer to speaking points compared to paragraphs, especially during actual presentations. Using all caps for keywords helps maintain focus and help get the speaker back on track if nervousness sets in. Also, including examples is a good way to feel more at ease. - Niki Jorgensen , Insperity

2. Join Toastmasters

Join a group like Toastmasters where you learn to present your ideas to a group before you are put in a situation where your poor performance may impact your future - Dinesh Sheth , Green Circle Life

3. Focus On Sharing Your Passion

Let your passion guide the way! Introverts are known to come alive when they are talking about a topic they are truly comfortable with and passionate about. By adequately preparing and focusing on the information you are sharing and not on the faces in the room, your confidence will increase and you will most likely shine without added pressure. - Tiersa Smith-Hall , The Hartling Group

4. Deeply Know Your Content

The key is to know our content. When we are an expert on a topic, it's much easier to convey the knowledge that we're comfortable with sharing to a group. Practice makes perfect! I used to hate presenting, but the more I did it over the years, the more it didn’t bother me. I find a focal point in the middle of the room and I speak with my team instead of speaking at them. - Christina Hobbs , American Queen Voyages

Forbes Human Resources Council is an invitation-only organization for HR executives across all industries. Do I qualify?

5. Define Speaking As a Service Opportunity

View your presentation as a service to others to help with nervousness. You have something important to share with others or you would not have been asked to speak. Focus on the message and being your authentic and whole self during the presentation to help you stay grounded. Practice in advance with someone you trust, and even play out all the worst-case scenarios to prepare. You've got this. - Dedra Ward , Conduent

6. Pick A Relatable Story To Share

Tell a story during the presentation that relates to the information you want to share. Stories are remembered more than straight data and it makes the presenter more genuine and relatable. You need to make sure the story conveys the right message for your audience. Using humor often helps. Rehearse the story with coworkers or friends to make sure it resonates and has the intended impact. - Lynne Marie Finn , Broadleaf Results

7. Be Empowered By Your Inner Strength

Who you are as an individual is your strength. Popular culture talks a lot about helping introverts get better in front of people and less time helping extroverts hush up. I'd say own your natural strengths and focus on that. If you're an introvert, do a great presentation as an introvert, whatever that means. - Elizabeth Roberts , eGenesis, Inc.

8. Rehearse Presentations

Anyone who is nervous about speaking in public can reduce stress levels by preparing in advance and knowing the content very well. Rehearsing the presentation will help get the speaker more comfortable with the topic, content and rhythm of the presentation. In addition, deep breathing techniques can lower the heart rate and reduce stress levels substantially before any presentation. - Chris Stanzione , 360 Talent, LLC

9. Create Your Own Presentation Content

The first step is being a part of the creation of the content you are presenting. Often, if you have input and help write it, there is less fear when presenting. Be prepared by trying to know the subject matter well enough that it becomes more of a conversation and less of a presentation. Always remember you are there to engage and educate the audience - Heather Smith , Flimp Communications

10. Don't Strive For Perfection

Remember that we are all human and it's not going to be the end of the world if you stumble over your words or have to take a minute to breathe and refocus on your message and presentation. In fact, most people actually appreciate authenticity far more than perfection. Once you allow yourself to make mistakes without self-punishment or worry, the pressure to be perfect disappears. Have fun! - Jenna Hinrichsen , Advanced RPO

11. Start With An Interactive Activity

If you aren't comfortable with public speaking, try beginning each meeting with an interactive activity or open-ended question to break the ice before diving into more formal topics. Asking co-workers for feedback either through a question or activity, then leading the presentation with that information in mind, is a great way to create a more comfortable atmosphere that still remains professional. - Laura Spawn , Virtual Vocations, Inc.

12. Create A Storyboard

Ill-timed interjections during presentations unnerve even the best of speakers, so begin by storyboarding, indexing your thoughts and building the presentation from the point of view of the listener. Practice for worst-case scenarios, rely on storytelling and present the executive summary first. Speak deliberately with pauses to check-in, add humor and focus on brief, yet powerful content delivery - Rohit Manucha , SIH AGH

13. Make The Presentation An Interactive Interview

Turn the presentation into an interview with someone asking pre-arranged questions to the presenter and facilitating questions or discussions for others. This works really well for hybrid meetings because the facilitator involves everyone and the presentation becomes interactive. While the context is the same, it might be easier for introverts to have a conversation rather than give a presentation. - Bontle Senne , Virgin Media UK

14. Simplify The Message

Whether speaking in front of a large group or a small one, the goal is still to connect and convey a message. First, lower the stakes and envision it as a one-to-one conversation. Next, distill your message down to its simplest form. Leverage stories to connect with the audience. Try the free PPT tool Presenter Coach to practice and get feedback on pace, tone, filler words and clarity. - Nicole Fernandes , Blu Ivy Group

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• Presentations
• Public Speaking

The Best Source for PowerPoint Templates (With Unlimited Use)

Before we dive into how to make a speech, let's look at a powerful tool that can help you design your presentation.

Envato Elements is a great place to find PowerPoint templates to use with your speech. These presentation templates are professionally designed to impress.

Envato Elements is an excellent value because you get unlimited access to digital elements once you become a subscriber. Envato Elements has more than just presentation templates . You get:

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Sample Public Speaking Scenario

Here's a possible public speaking scenario:

You've just opened a small web design business in your town, and you join the town Chamber of Commerce. As a result, you're invited to give a short, five-minute presentation at the next Chamber of Commerce meeting.

Coming up with a public speaking speech for the scenario described above could be a challenge if you've never written or given a public speech before. Fortunately, there are some speech-writing steps that you can use that'll make speech writing easier.

Let's use this example and walk through the steps for writing a speech.

7 Steps for Writing a Speech

The steps for writing a speech for public speaking are like the steps for writing a presentation in general. But at each stage of the writing process, you need to keep your audience in mind:

1. Research Your Audience

Whenever you do any type of writing you need to consider who you're trying to reach with your writing. Speech writing is no different. The more you know about your target audience, the more effective your writing will be.

In the example above, you know that your audience is going to be the other members of the Chamber of Commerce. They're likely to be small business owners just like you are.

What to Do After You Research Your Audience:

Once you've defined your audience, you can gear your speech towards them. To do this, ask yourself questions like:

• What does this audience need?
• What problem can I solve for them?
• Is there anything else I need to consider about my listeners?

In the example we're using for this tutorial, most small businesses in your town fit one of the following three situations:

• They've got a website that works well.
• They've got a website, but the design is outdated or doesn't work well.
• They don't have a website.

2. Select a Topic

In this example your topic is already given. You've been invited to introduce your business. But you also know that the speech is going to be fairly short--only five minutes long.

While it's always a good idea to keep a speech focused, this is especially important for a short speech.

If I were writing the public speaking speech for the scenario we're working with, I'd narrow the topic down like this:

• Create a list of the strengths of my business.
• Compare the list of business strengths to the problems I observed with the other members' websites in the previous step.
• Focus my presentation on the areas where my business strengths meet weaknesses (needs) of other Chamber of Commerce members.

Let's say that I noticed that quite a few members of the chamber have websites that use outdated fonts, and the sites aren't mobile-friendly. Instead of listing everything my web design business could possibly do, I'd focus my short speech on those areas where I observed a need.

You can use a similar process to narrow the topic down any time you need to write a speech.

Avoid the temptation of trying to cover too much information. Most people are so overwhelmed by the sheer amount of new data they receive each day that they can't keep up with it all. Your listeners are more likely to remember your public speaking speech if it's tightly focused on one or two points.

3. Research Your Topic

In the example we've been going over, you probably don't need to do a lot of research. And you've already narrowed your topic down.

But some public speaking situations may require that that you cover a topic that you're less familiar with. For more detailed speech writing tips on how to study your subject (and other public speaking tips), review the tutorial:

4. Write Your Speech

Once you've completed the steps above, you're ready to write your speech. Here are some basic speech writing tips:

• Begin with an outline . To create a speech your audience will remember, you've got to be organized. An outline is one of the best ways to organize your thoughts.
• Use a conversational tone . Write your speech the way you would normally talk. Work in some small talk or humor, if appropriate.
• Use the speaker notes . Typically, speaker notes aren't seen by the audience. So, this is a good place to put reminders to yourself.
• Be specific . It's better to give examples or statistics to support a point than it is to make a vague statement.
• Use short sentences . It's likely you're not going to give your speech word for word anyway. Shorter sentences are easier to remember.

In this example scenario for the short speech we're preparing for the Chamber of Commerce, your outline could look something like this:

• Introduction . Give your name and the name of your business. (Show title slide of website home page with URL)
• Type of Business . Describe what you do in a sentence or two. (Show slide with bulleted list)
• Give example of a recent web design project . Emphasize areas that you know the other businesses need. (Show slides with examples)
• Conclusion.  Let the audience know that you'd be happy to help with their web design needs. Offer to talk to anyone who's interested after the meeting. (Show closing slide that includes contact information)
• Give out handouts . Many presentation software packages allow you to print out your speech as a handout. For a networking-type presentation like the one in our example, this can be a good idea since it gives your listeners something to take with them that's got your contact information on it.

That simple speech format should be enough for the short speech in our example. If you find it's too short when you practice, you can always add more slides with examples.

If you've been asked to give a short speech, you can change the speech format above to fit your needs. If you're giving a longer speech, be sure to plan for audience breaks and question and answer sessions as you write.

5. Select a Presentation Tool

For most presentations, you'll want to use a professional presentation tool such as PowerPoint, Google Slides, or a similar package. A presentation tool allows you to add visual interest to your public speaking speech. Many of them allow you to add video or audio to further engage your audience.

If you don't already have a presentation tool, these tutorials can help you find the right one for your needs:

Once you've chosen a presentation tool, you're ready to choose a template for your presentation.

6. Select a Template and Finish

A presentation template controls the look and feel of your presentation. A good template design can make the difference between a memorable public speech with eye-catching graphics and a dull, forgettable talk.

You could design your own presentation template from scratch. But, if you've never designed a presentation template before, the result might look less than professional. And it could take a long time to get a good template. Plus, hiring a designer to create an original presentation template can be pricey.

A smart shortcut for most small business owners is to invest in a professional presentation template. They can customize it to fit with their branding and marketing materials. If you choose this option, you'll save time and money. Plus, with a professional presentation template you get a proven result.

You can find some great-looking presentation templates at  Envato Elements  or  GraphicRiver . To browse through some example templates, look at these articles:

Even a short speech like the one we've been using as an example in this tutorial could benefit from a good tutorial. If you've never used a template before, these PowerPoint tutorials can help:

7. How to Make a Public Speech

Now that you've completed all the steps above, you're ready to give your speech. Before you give your speech publicly, though, there are a few things you should remember:

• Don't read your speech . If you can, memorize your speech. If you can't, it's okay to use note cards or even your outline--but don't read those either. Just refer to them if you get stuck.
• Practice . Practice helps you get more comfortable with your speech. It'll also help you determine how your speech fits into the time slot you've been allotted.
• Do use visual aids . Of course, your presentation template adds a visual element to your public speech. But if other visual aids work with your presentation, they can be helpful as well.
• Dress comfortably, but professionally . The key is to fit in. If you're not sure how others at your meeting will be dressed, contact the organizer and ask.
• Speak and stand naturally . It's normal to be a little nervous but try to act as naturally as you can. Even if you make a mistake, keep going. Your audience probably won't even notice.
• Be enthusiastic . Excitement is contagious. If you're excited about your topic, your audience will likely be excited too.

In the example we're using in this tutorial (and with many public speaking opportunities), it's important not to disappear at the end of the meeting. Stick around and be prepared to interact individually with members of the audience. Have answers to questions anyone might have about your speech. And be sure to bring a stack of business cards to pass out.

5 Quick Tips to Make a Good Speech Great (& More Memorable)

After reading about the basics, here are some more tips on how to write a great speech really stand out:

1. Have a Strong Opening

Start your speech with a strong opening by presenting surprising facts or statistics. You could even start with a funny story or grand idea.

Another way to start your speech is to open with a question to spark your audience’s curiosity. If you engage your audience early in your speech, they're more likely to pay attention throughout your speech.

2. Connect With Your Audience

You want a speech that'll be memorable. One way to make your speech memorable is to connect with your audience. Using metaphors and analogies help your audience to connect and remember. For example, people use one writing tool to put the speech's theme in a 15-20 word short poem or memorable paragraph, then build your speech around it.

3. Have a Clear Structure

When writing your speech, have a clear path and a destination. Otherwise, you could have a disorganized speech. Messy speeches are unprofessional and forgettable. While writing your speech, leave out unnecessary information. Too many unnecessary details can cause people to lose focus.

4. Repeat Important Information

A key to writing memorable speeches is to repeat key phrases, words, and themes. When writing your speech, always bring your points back to your main point or theme. Repetition helps people remember your speech and drives home the topic of your speech.

5. Have a Strong Closing

Since the last thing that your audience listened to what your closing, they'll remember your closing the most. So, if your closing is forgettable, it can make your speech forgettable. So, recap your speech and repeat essential facts that you want the audience to remember in your closing.

Five PowerPoint Presentation Templates (From Envato Elements - For 2022)

If you’re writing a speech for a presentation, save time by using a premium presentation template:

1. Toetiec PowerPoint Presentation

Toetic PowerPoint Presentation has 90 unique slides and 1800 total slides that you can easily add your information onto. There are ten light and dark versions that come with this template. Also included in this template are vector icons, elements, and maps.

2. Suflen Multipurpose Presentation

Suflen Multipurpose Presentation template has a professional design that can work for any presentation topic. This template comes with over 450 total slides. With this template, you've got five color themes to choose from. Also, this template comes with illustrations, graphics, and picture placeholders.

3. Virtually PowerPoint

Virtually PowerPoint template is a modern and minimal style presentation template. This template comes with over 50 slides. You can use this template for any presentation theme.

4. Amarish PowerPoint Template

Amarish PowerPoint Template comes with five color themes that allow you to choose the color you want. This template is another multipurpose template that can work for any purpose. Also, this template comes with over 150 total slides and infographics, illustrations, and graphics.

5. Qubica PowerPoint Template

Qubica PowerPoint Template comes with over 150 total slides and five premade color themes. Easily add images into your presentation template by dragging the image of your choice into the picture placeholder. Everything in this template is entirely editable.

Learn More About How to Write a Great Speech

Here are some other tutorials that provide more information on giving a speech:

Learn More About Making Great Presentations

Download The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations eBook now for FREE with a subscription to the Tuts+ Business Newsletter. Get your ideas formed into a powerful presentation that'll move your audience!

Make Your Next Speech Your Best Ever!

You've just learned how to write a good public speaking speech. You've been given a sample speech format and plenty of other speech writing tips and resources on how to write a good speech. You've seen some templates that'll really make a PowerPoint stand out.

Now, it's up to you to write the best speech for your needs. Good luck!

Editorial Note: This post has been updated with contributions from Sarah Joy . Sarah is a freelance instructor for Envato Tuts+.