How do you know your knowledge is good enough for a stage? Are you waiting for the right moment to share your expertise, unsure when that moment is? Becoming a speaker isn’t just for celebrities and CEOs – it’s for anyone with valuable insights to offer. Here’s how to know when you’re ready, and how to make your first move.
The signs your knowledge is stage-worthy
Sometimes, we underestimate the value of what we already know. The truth is, if you’ve spent years building expertise in your field, chances are there’s an audience eager to hear your story. But how do you recognize the right moment to take the leap?
People keep asking you the same questions
A crystal clear sign you’re ready is when people constantly ask you for advice. Whether it’s colleagues, clients, or even friends, their repeated questions reveal that you’ve developed knowledge others find valuable. If you notice the same themes coming up in conversations, that’s a strong indicator your insights are stage-worthy.
You already have a proven framework
Another clear signal is having a repeatable process or framework that consistently works. Maybe you’ve developed a system for boosting productivity, a strategy for scaling businesses, or a method for overcoming personal challenges. Frameworks give structure to your talk and show that your advice isn’t just theoretical, but practical and tested.
How to land your first speaking gig
Once you know your expertise is valuable, the next step is putting yourself out there. Your first speaking gig doesn’t have to be in front of a massive audience – small stages are powerful places to start.
- Start with local events. Community meetups, industry networking nights, or workshops are great places to get your foot in the door. Organizers are often looking for fresh voices.
- Leverage your network. Let your professional circle know you’re interested in speaking. Opportunities often come from word-of-mouth recommendations.
- Offer value, not a pitch. Event organizers want speakers who can teach, inspire, and engage – not just sell. Focus your talk on solving a problem or sharing lessons, and the rest will follow.
Remember, landing your first speaking gig is just the beginning – what matters more is building momentum. Every stage, no matter how small, is an opportunity to refine your message, grow your confidence, and connect with new people. Treat each talk as practice for the next, gather feedback, and don’t be afraid to adjust your style as you go. Over time, these early experiences will not only sharpen your skills but also open doors to bigger opportunities, turning you from a beginner into a sought-after speaker.
Turning talks into clients and new opportunities
Speaking isn’t just standing on stage, just the moment itself. It’s also a powerful business growth tool. Each talk can open doors if you approach it strategically. How can you do that?
- Share real stories. People remember stories more than facts. Weave your personal experiences into your talk to build trust and connection.
- Invite engagement. At the end of your talk, offer a free resource, a way to stay in touch, or an invitation to connect on social platforms. This transforms audience members into potential clients.
- Repurpose your talk. Record snippets for social media, expand your content into blog posts, or create a mini-course. One talk can fuel months of marketing.
You don’t need decades of experience or a bestselling book to deserve a stage. If people regularly seek your advice, if you’ve built a framework that works, and if you’re passionate about helping others, then you’re already more ready than you think. All it takes is a bit of courage and one leap.
You don’t need to be on TEDx right away. Start small, focus on delivering value, and remember that every stage is an opportunity to grow – both as a speaker and as a leader. The world is waiting to hear your voice.
