Speak Your Truth in Business: Using Speaking to Reach Your Ideal Client (Part Two of Two)

[NOTE: This article is the second half of a post on speaking. To read part one, click here.]

Knowing where to speak is the first big step. There are opportunities everywhere you look; you just have to learn how to recognize them. There are two main types of speaking opportunities: live events and one-on-one communication.

When seeking out live speaking opportunities, consider conferences, seminars, and trainings. Maybe you could speak at a book launch or open house. There are always people looking for speakers for professional workshops or corporate lunches. Think about your local Chamber of Commerce. Get in contact with leads groups or associations. They could have opportunities for you to speak at networking lunches or online conferences.

One-on-One speaking is about connecting with others on an individual basis. This is about meeting someone else in person and sharing the power of you. Be authentic.  Share your personal story! Authenticity is the answer. God made you unique, and His timing is perfect. Remember, create a friendship, first. Don’t hunt down a client!

Here are a few tips. Get a behind the scenes helper for webinars. Before any speaking engagement, do a practice run. Write talking points to help you stay on track, and just start where you are. Stop trying to be perfect. The best way to become an excellent speaker is to speak, and speak again.

Use this mnemonic device to help you remember the key points of speaking:

What are your next steps? Start by creating your Speaker One Page. Add a speaking tab to your website, and add Speaker to your business cards. Start asking to be the speaker at events. Visit www.nacwe.org/speaking to see an example.

Diane Cunningham is the Founder and President of the National Association of Christian Women Entrepreneurs. She is a “business therapist,” plane crash survivor, author, consultant, speaker, marathon runner, and fun friend. Find out more about NACWE and why 165 women joined in the first year at www.NACWE.org. Connect with Diane at www.facebook.com/DianeCunningham for fun updates, silly videos, and lively conversation.