Let’s be honest—most public speakers didn’t get into this business because they love sales. You’re passionate about your message, your audience, and making a difference. But when it comes to landing paid speaking engagements, you might feel stuck. How do you promote yourself without feeling like a pushy salesperson?

In one of our SpeakerHUB coworking sessions, we explored how to build a speaking business through smart, non-salesy outreach. This article walks you through a system built specifically for speakers—so you can grow your business, book more gigs, and get paid to speak with confidence and authenticity.

The Truth About Outreach as a Public Speaker

Outreach can feel awkward—especially if you’re new to the speaking business or trying to land higher-paid gigs. But here’s a mindset shift: outreach isn’t about convincing people to hire you. It’s about helping the right people discover the value you offer.

When your message is clear, your audience is defined, and your communication is human, outreach stops feeling like sales—and starts feeling like service.

How to Start Conversations That Lead to Speaking Gigs

The first step in any speaker-client relationship is a conversation. Not a pitch. Not a script. A genuine connection.

Here’s what works:

• Personalize your outreach: Mention a recent event or post from the organizer.

• Focus on their audience: Share how your talk helps solve a problem their attendees care about.

• Keep it short and sweet: Think two short paragraphs and a call to connect.

Example message:
“Hi [First Name], I loved the recent event you organized on leadership and inclusion. I speak on how companies can foster inclusive communication from the top down. Would love to explore if I might be a fit for your upcoming programming.”

That’s it—friendly, relevant, and easy to say yes to.

The Speaker Sales Journey (That Doesn’t Feel Like Selling)

During the coworking session, speakers shared how they gently guide potential clients from first contact to paid engagement using a five-step journey:

1. Initial outreach with a tailored message

2. Follow-up with something valuable (like your one-sheet or a short video)

3. Discovery call focused on their needs, not your résumé

4. Proposal with clear deliverables and pricing

5. Booking + follow-up with all the logistics covered

This system keeps the process organized and repeatable, but still human. No hard closes. No sleazy tactics. Just clarity, value, and service.

Tools That Make It Easier to Get Booked and Paid

The right tools don’t just make outreach easier—they help you show up like a pro.

Here’s what you can use through SpeakerHub:

• SpeakerPAGE: Your SpeakerPAGE is a one-sheet featured in our Speaker Directory, helping you rank in web searches and showcase your value to organizers. It highlights your speaking experience, past events, testimonials, and social proof—all in one professional profile designed to attract more bookings.

• SpeakerHub PRO: A powerful, searchable database of podcasts, conferences, and event organizers. It includes built-in CRM tools, AI integrations, and personalized QR codes—everything you need to streamline outreach and grow your speaking business.

These tools are made for public speakers who want to grow their business while staying authentic, organized, and easy to find.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Growing a speaking business is easier when you’re not doing it alone. In our weekly SpeakerHUB coworking sessions, you can get real-time feedback, refine your pitch, and stay accountable—all alongside fellow speakers working toward the same goals. Join us: https://speakercoworking.com/

Watch the full Coworking Session

Want to see how real speakers are booking clients without being pushy? Watch the full coworking session from April 30 below for honest insights and practical tips.