What Authors Should Know Before Pursuing Speaking Opportunities
Writing the Book Is Only the Beginning
Many authors dream of seeing their book on a bookstore shelf. Fewer realize that their book can also become a passport to speaking opportunities.
Books create credibility. They open doors. They provide a platform for sharing ideas, encouraging others, and connecting with audiences who need your message.
Finding speaking opportunities often comes down to four things:
Consistency. Research. Boldness. Connections.
Those four principles have served me well as both an author and speaker.
Know What Event Planners Need
Before approaching an event planner, conference organizer, podcast host, or group leader, spend some time learning about them.
Research their event if possible.
Who spoke at their last event?
What topics were covered?
Who attends?
What challenges does their audience face?
The planner wants confidence that you will benefit their audience.
Think about what attendees will walk away with after spending time with you.
For example, when I speak to authors, my goal is to provide practical strategies, encouragement, and clarity about the business side of writing and publishing. I want people to leave with actionable ideas they can implement immediately.
The more clearly you can communicate your value, the easier it becomes for planners to say yes.
Understand Different Types of Events
Not every event is looking for the same type of speaker.
Some events are highly professional and require speakers who can present detailed information with clear learning objectives.
Some events are relational. They need storytellers who can enlighten, entertain, and teach through personal experiences.
Others focus on connection and interaction. These audiences want participation, discussion, and opportunities to engage with one another.
Understanding the event helps you determine whether you are the right fit.
Know Your Speaking Style
One of the most important lessons I learned came through experience.
I know now that I am a storyteller at heart.
Years ago, someone told me that listening to me speak felt like sitting down for a cup of coffee and having a one-on-one conversation.
Since then, that's been my goal.
I deliver stories filled with emotion, encouragement, and laughter.
I am naturally a positive speaker.
I learned that lesson the hard way.
Once, I was asked to speak on "10 Things Not to Do in a Marriage."
It was awful.
I quickly realized I wasn't comfortable speaking from a negative perspective. The topic didn't fit who I was as a communicator.
After that experience, I decided to focus on speaking topics that align with my strengths, personality, and message.
When you're comfortable with your material, your audience feels comfortable too.
People are far more likely to walk away feeling encouraged, informed, and grateful they spent time with you.
Just as authors continue to learn the craft of writing, speakers continue to develop their skills. One of the biggest growth experiences in my own journey came through the National Speakers Association Academy in Denver, where I learned that effective speaking is about far more than standing on a stage—it's about serving an audience well.
The Four Keys to Finding Speaking Opportunities
Consistency
Speaking opportunities rarely appear overnight.
Continue reaching out.
Continue networking.
Continue introducing yourself to organizations that serve your audience.
Consistency creates momentum.
Research
Know the audience.
Know the event.
Know the podcast host.
Know the interviewer.
Read their website. Listen to previous episodes. Watch recordings when available.
The more prepared you are, the more valuable you become.
Boldness
Many authors wait for someone to discover them.
Most opportunities begin when we take the initiative.
Contact the library.
Approach the conference organizer.
Submit the speaker proposal.
Reach out to the podcast host.
As Scripture reminds us:
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." — Matthew 7:7
Ask.
Seek.
Knock.
Let those three words become part of your speaking strategy.
Connections
Speaking is a relationship business.
Many opportunities come through people who know, trust, and recommend you.
Build relationships with:
Authors
Event planners
Librarians
Podcast hosts
Readers
Conference organizers
Sometimes one conversation can lead to opportunities you never anticipated.
Your Next Waypoint
If you're looking to grow your visibility as an author, speaking may be one of the most effective tools available.
Start small.
Contact one organization.
Reach out to one podcast.
Introduce yourself to one event planner.
Ask.
Seek.
Knock.
You never know which door may open next.
Explore More on the Authorpreneur Compass
Continue your journey with: The Author Visibility Road Map: 7 Ways to Grow Beyond Simply Writing a Book
https://deedeelake.com/post/author-visibility-road-map
One of the most valuable investments I've made in my speaking journey was attending the National Speakers Association Academy in Denver, Colorado. The training elevated my speaking skills, strengthened my professionalism, and gave me a deeper understanding of how to serve audiences well. If speaking is part of your author journey, the National Speakers Association offers education, networking, and professional development opportunities worth exploring.
Question for You
Have you ever considered speaking as a way to expand your reach as an author? What type of audience would you most enjoy speaking to?
