How Authors Can Find Speaking Opportunities Using Their Books
Looking for opportunities to speak?
Well, there is an audience just for you.
Knowing who you want to connect with—and where they gather—is imperative to your success.
One of the biggest mistakes authors make is trying to speak to everyone.
The most successful speakers know exactly who they serve and where those people spend their time.
Your book can become the bridge that connects you to those audiences.
Start With Your Reader Avatar
Before searching for speaking opportunities, ask yourself:
Who reads my book?
What challenges do they face?
What organizations serve them?
What events do they attend?
What podcasts do they listen to?
The clearer you are about your audience, the easier it becomes to find places to speak.
For example, if you write devotionals for women, women's ministries, retreats, church groups, and conferences may be a natural fit.
If you write business books, chambers of commerce, networking groups, and professional associations may be a better match.
Don't start with the venue.
Start with the audience.
10 Places Authors Can Find Speaking Opportunities
1. Libraries
Libraries frequently host author talks, workshops, and educational programs.
2. Independent Bookstores
Many bookstores welcome local authors for presentations and book signings.
3. Writers Groups
Writing organizations regularly invite speakers to educate and encourage their members.
4. Churches and Faith-Based Organizations
Churches often host retreats, women's events, leadership training, and special programs.
5. Chambers of Commerce
Business authors may find excellent opportunities through local chambers and networking events.
6. Rotary, Lions, and Civic Organizations
Community organizations are always looking for interesting and informative speakers.
7. Conferences
Industry conferences often seek speakers months in advance.
8. Podcasts
Podcast hosts constantly search for guests who bring value to their audience.
9. Online Summits
Virtual events continue to grow and provide opportunities to reach audiences around the world.
10. Community Organizations
Schools, nonprofits, libraries, and local groups frequently need educational presentations.
Your Book Creates Credibility
One reason books open speaking doors is credibility.
Your book tells event planners:
"I've invested time, research, and experience into this message."
A published book often helps planners feel more confident inviting you to speak.
If you'd like to learn more about how books build credibility and authority, read Your Book Is More Than a Book: How Authors Build Credibility and Open Doors.
Make It Easy to Say Yes
When reaching out to event planners, provide:
A professional headshot
A speaker bio
Speaking topics
A speaker one-sheet or media kit
Contact information
Links to previous presentations, if available
The easier you make their job, the more likely they are to consider you.
🚩 Speaker Resource
Want to see what a professional speaker media kit looks like?
Visit my Speaker Page to see examples of:
Speaker bios
One-sheets
Speaking topics
Event planner resources
Media kit materials
Learn How Event Planners Think
One of the best resources I've found for understanding meeting planners is Frankly Speaking by Maralynn Adams, CMP; Bonni Scepkowski, SFP; Tracey Smith, CMP, CMM; and Shawna Suckow, CMP, SFP.
These experienced event planners openly share what speakers do well, common mistakes speakers make, and what planners are really looking for when booking speakers.
Successful speakers don't simply focus on getting booked. They focus on serving the audience and making the event planner's job easier.
Your Next Waypoint
Speaking opportunities rarely appear by accident.
They are usually the result of intentional relationships, clear messaging, and consistent outreach.
Ask yourself:
Where does my ideal audience already gather?
That's where your next speaking opportunity may be waiting.
Related Compass Stops
The Author Visibility Road Map: 7 Ways to Grow Beyond Simply Writing a Book
What Authors Should Know Before Pursuing Speaking Opportunities
Your Book Is More Than a Book: How Authors Build Credibility and Open Doors
Question for You
If you could speak to one group of people about your message, who would they be?
Recommended Resource
Frankly Speaking by Maralynn Adams, CMP; Bonni Scepkowski, SFP; Tracey Smith, CMP, CMM; and Shawna Suckow, CMP, SFP.
Get the book here: Frankly Speaking
Affiliate Disclosure: If you purchase through the link above, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend resources I believe provide value.
