Networking Tips for New Speakers: How to Connect with Industry Insiders and Event Planners

Embarking on a career in public speaking is an exciting journey, but breaking into the industry requires more than just delivering a stellar presentation. Networking plays a pivotal role in establishing your presence and securing speaking engagements. For new speakers, building connections with industry insiders and event planners can be both challenging and rewarding. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the networking landscape and make meaningful connections that can propel your speaking career forward.

1. Define Your Networking Goals

Start by clarifying what you hope to achieve through networking. Are you looking to secure speaking engagements, gain industry insights, or connect with mentors? Defining your goals will help you focus your efforts and make more strategic connections. Having a clear objective will also guide your interactions and help you communicate your needs effectively.

Example: If your goal is to land more speaking gigs, focus on connecting with event planners and decision-makers in your target industries.

2. Attend Relevant Events and Conferences

Industry events, conferences, and workshops are excellent venues for networking. Attend events related to your niche and target audience. These gatherings offer opportunities to meet industry insiders, event planners, and fellow speakers. Engage in conversations, participate in panel discussions, and make an effort to connect with as many people as possible.

Tip: Research the event schedule and key attendees beforehand. Identify who you’d like to meet and prepare questions or discussion points to make a memorable impression.

3. Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms are powerful tools for building your network. LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram offer opportunities to connect with industry leaders, event planners, and other speakers. Follow relevant accounts, engage with their content, and participate in conversations to increase your visibility.

Example: Share insightful content related to your speaking topics, comment on industry posts, and join relevant LinkedIn groups to interact with potential connections.

4. Develop a Strong Online Presence

A professional online presence is crucial for making a positive impression. Ensure your website, LinkedIn profile, and social media accounts are up-to-date and reflect your expertise. Share your accomplishments, upcoming speaking engagements, and valuable insights to showcase your credibility and attract attention from industry insiders.

Tip: Include a blog on your website where you can regularly post content related to your speaking topics. This not only positions you as a thought leader but also provides valuable talking points for networking conversations.

5. Craft an Effective Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech that introduces who you are and what you do. It should be engaging and clearly communicate your unique value as a speaker. Practice your pitch to ensure it’s concise, impactful, and tailored to your audience.

Example: “Hi, I’m [Your Name], a motivational speaker specializing in resilience and leadership. I help teams overcome challenges and achieve their goals through engaging and actionable presentations. I’d love to explore opportunities where my expertise can make a difference.”

6. Build Relationships, Not Just Contacts

Networking is about building genuine relationships, not just collecting business cards. Focus on creating meaningful connections with others. Take the time to understand their needs, offer value, and follow up after initial meetings. Building trust and rapport will lead to more fruitful and long-lasting relationships.

Tip: Send a personalized follow-up email or message after meeting someone. Reference your conversation and express your interest in staying in touch.

7. Offer Value and Be a Resource

One effective way to build relationships is by offering value. Share resources, insights, or connections that may benefit others in your network. By being helpful and supportive, you’ll build goodwill and establish yourself as a valuable resource in the industry.

Example: If you come across an article or tool that you think a connection might find useful, share it with them along with a brief note about why you thought of them.

8. Seek Out Mentors and Industry Experts

Mentors and industry experts can provide invaluable guidance and introduce you to key contacts. Look for experienced speakers or professionals who are willing to offer advice and support. Attend mentorship programs, industry panels, or networking events where you can meet potential mentors.

Tip: Approach potential mentors with a clear idea of what you hope to gain from the relationship and how you can contribute in return.

9. Participate in Online Forums and Groups

Online forums and groups related to public speaking and your niche are excellent places to network. Join forums, participate in discussions, and connect with members who share your interests. Engaging in these communities can help you build relationships and stay informed about industry trends.

Example: Join public speaking forums or groups on Facebook and Reddit. Participate actively in discussions and offer valuable insights to establish yourself as a knowledgeable member.

10. Be Patient and Persistent

Networking takes time and effort. Building meaningful connections doesn’t happen overnight, so be patient and persistent. Keep engaging with your network, attending events, and refining your approach. Consistent effort will yield results and help you build a strong and supportive network.

Tip: Set aside regular time for networking activities and follow-up tasks. Consistency is key to maintaining and growing your network over time.

By following these networking tips, new speakers can effectively connect with industry insiders and event planners, paving the way for a successful and fulfilling speaking career. Start building your network today and take advantage of the opportunities that arise as you connect with others in the industry.

Ready to make impactful connections and elevate your speaking career? Register for SPEAKR and get the tools and insights you need to network like a pro!