What do you do if you're a public speaker looking for the best networking events or platforms?

Don't just create goals for finding the next speaking event - create goals for the kind of speaker you want to be. This way, you're being strategic about your perception.

The public speaking circuit is a self perpetuating model. You're speaking to a crowd... usually someone in the crowd puts on events. Be the speaker they remember and you'll never be short of events. As for the best networking events... almost always if you've been a speaker it'll be pretty easy to start conversations and get to know the room after your talk. So go to the drinks reception, go to dinner and see where it takes you.

I don't know if it's possible to embark on a career to become a public speaker per se. A public speaker is someone who has a proven track record of skills in a certain area and knows how to convey them well. Public speaking is not a skill in and of itself. Therefore, you would need to continue to progress in your chosen field that you would like to speak about. This can be done by writing further articles, more research. The skill and the speaking work with each other. The more proficient and proven you are at the skill the more likely you are to be hired to speak about it. The better speaker you are the more likely you are to be asked to speak about the skill. You always need to be working on one of these two areas.

Being a speaker is an easy task but finding the right topic to speak is a different one. So before beginning your journey you should first understand yourself and things which you are interested in speaking about and spreading awareness.

As a public speaker seeking optimal networking opportunities, leverage various channels for visibility and connection. Start by researching industry-specific events on platforms like Meetup or Eventbrite. Engage in virtual communities through LinkedIn or specialized forums to interact with fellow professionals. Additionally, explore speaking engagements at conferences or webinars relevant to your expertise. Remember, networking is about building relationships, so prioritize events where meaningful connections can flourish.

Professional associations are one of the best ways to find events where attendees have a mutual interest and knowledge level. Knowing your audience is crucial to connecting when speaking. That starts with searching out those areas where people who need and want your subject matter will be found.

To find the best networking events or platforms as a public speaker, thorough research is key. Start by identifying reputable industry-specific conferences, seminars, and workshops that attract professionals in your field. Utilize online platforms like Eventbrite, Meetup, or LinkedIn Events to discover upcoming networking opportunities tailored to public speaking or related industries. Explore professional associations and forums like Toastmasters International for networking opportunities. By investing time in researching and identifying relevant events and platforms, you can maximize your networking efforts and connect with valuable contacts in the public speaking industry.

As someone who has lived with multiple disabilities for over 30 years, both physical and mental, I've learned that defining goals is not just a task, but a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Researching events catering to public speakers & my interests has been instrumental in my growth. From conferences to workshops, each opportunity has allowed me to share my unique perspective & learn from diverse professionals. Don't underestimate the value of local events; they can provide invaluable connections & support. Remember, every environment is a chance to both contribute & learn, no matter the challenges we face.

I am a fan of starting with professional associations and using that audience to grow to other types of events. If your industry is engineering, look for the National and local engineering associations and attend those events. Apply to speak at the local level and work your way up to the national level. From there, other members who work at companies will see you and eventually inquire about your availability to work with them. Use industry associations as your starting point.

Expanding your reach is one of the best and most effective aspects of public speaking. I couldn’t agree more, grow your network through various platforms on and offline and especially in the beginning take on any opportunity. As you mature in your career you can be more selective to make sure the audience and the content works for your brand and vision.

To network and connect with other professionals in your industry as a public speaker, start by researching online communities, attending virtual events, and using social media to find networking events and connect with other professionals. Consider using professional networking platforms and attending local chapter meetings of industry organizations. Hosting your own event can also establish you as a thought leader and attract like-minded professionals. For example, a public speaker specializing in digital marketing can leverage LinkedIn and Twitter, attend virtual digital marketing events, and use Meetup to find local digital marketing groups.

Expanding your reach is one of the best and most effective aspects of public speaking. I couldn’t agree more, grow your network through various platforms on and offline and especially in the beginning take on any opportunity. As you mature in your career you can be more selective to make sure the audience and the content works for your brand and vision.

Active engagement is the key to unlocking the best public speaking opportunities. It allows you to build credibility and visibility by showcasing your expertise in online communities and discussions. This increased exposure connects you with event organizers who are looking for qualified speakers. The act of engaging itself hones your public speaking skills and can even generate positive buzz through word-of-mouth recommendations. So, get out there, participate in discussions, share your knowledge, and watch your speaking career flourish.

LinkedIn is one of the best tools to help speakers (or anybody) looking to build connections and see what is out there. Learn how to use it well, and be sure to be polite, respectful and courteous when connecting with new people.

To discover the best networking events or platforms as a public speaker, it's crucial to follow up on leads and connections made during past events. For example, if you attend a conference where you meet fellow speakers or event organizers, be proactive in following up with them afterward. Send personalized emails expressing your interest in future collaborations or networking opportunities. Additionally, join relevant online communities or forums where professionals in the public speaking industry congregate. By actively engaging and following up with contacts, you can uncover valuable networking events and platforms tailored to your needs as a public speaker.

Ensure your professional and personal network includes organizers of the type of events you would want to speak at. Your network is your net-worth even in public speaking.

Evaluating the success of past networking endeavors is vital. Reflect on events or platforms where you've made meaningful connections or gained valuable opportunities. For example, if you've attended a conference where you forged beneficial professional relationships or secured speaking engagements, consider what made that event or platform successful for you. Assess factors such as the quality of connections made, relevance to your niche, and the potential for future collaborations. Based on this evaluation, prioritize similar events or platforms that align with your networking goals and have a track record of success. By evaluating past experiences, you can make informed decisions and maximize your networking efforts as a public speaker.

After some time of your journey you should look back and see what you have achieved so far and what impact you have made so far in your journey.

Most successful people are products of their network's results. When you're not there, yet you just know and tell yourself the truth that it's time to refactor and improvise. The circle of your network is obviously not producing desire results, so there's a need to see things from another perspective, which literally will have a dent on how you relate with the current people you've been in touch with. Some time, it could be your fault totally and not on the people you connect with. They may have obliged to help or even provided all that could help you, but the place of action steps is wanting, kudos to your approach. The bottom line is to do a check and review internally and then externally before arriving at conclusions.

These six considerations are very helpful to me. I resonate readily with Ms. Chen’s emphasis on knowing what kind of speaker you want to be and with Ms. Geraghty’s encouragement of authenticity. Without these, the other points will not much matter—at least not for long. But with attention to these two essentials, the other four suggestions can elevate your experience of connecting with others. Start within, then move outward. That’s a winning strategy.

The key is to be proactive and make the most of each opportunity to connect with others in my field. Networking is not just about attending events; it’s about engaging with the community and building lasting relationships. I will Keep refining my speaking skills and stay updated on the latest trends to maintain my edge as a top public speaker.

Your public speaking assignments need to align with your own executive personal branding strategy so start there. Once that is clear, then it’s easier to evaluate what opportunities will align with who you are and how you want to be positioned. You will also find clarity on the topics you want to speak on and the kinds of audiences that suit you. Then, it’s just a matter of applying PR and marketing tactics to get the word out. Finally social media is a great lead generator for decision makers as well finding your own community. Speakers who already have their own audience and community are way more lucrative for event hosts to book.

Leverage social media - the best platform there is - do all of the above but finally when rubber meets the road, the first thing anyone will do is look you up on social media. Your videos on LI, YouTube & Instagram are the best credibility-building tool you have. Events and on-ground opportunities are far and in-between and not always in your control. But social media content and it's consistently and frequency is yours to manage. To sum it up, you will have to take-on multiple initiatives to get traction. One of them that's easy to do and must-do is social media content.