Find out what to expect before jumping into this field:
1. It is a constant learning experience. There’s nothing like a profession where you’re always learning something new. No matter how good you are, you will still have something to learn or a new set of skills to acquire. Just when you think you’re on top of everything, things change and you have to continually adapt or get left behind. It is a profession that demands that you continue to stretch and grow. One thing that is so intriguing about talking is that you can never become complacent. You will always have something to fight for.
2. You will have the opportunity to reach many people with your message. It’s gratifying to feel like you’ve touched people in some way and helped them rethink or change their lives. The letters and feedback you’ll receive from clients whose lives you’ve touched are one of the great rewards in this field.
3. If you have gaps in your self-confidence, public speaking will reveal them. This is nice (if a bit painful) because it shows you what areas you need to work on. In other words, if you feel competent at your job and confident in yourself, that confidence may fade when you try something new and daring, like public speaking. You just got out of your comfort zone. This is all good, since comfort zones are only good when we need a short nap. They are not a place to get stuck!
4. You meet wonderful people and get great feedback and find that your circle of friends, acquaintances and colleagues grows exponentially. Each commitment to speak opens a new door and offers many new opportunities.
5. The earning potential is unlimited. If you are so good that your reputation precedes you and your message is timely, you can command whatever price you want. And you can talk as much or as little as you want.
6. Public speaking is a field that relates very naturally to almost any profession. You can start to supplement your income by sharing your experience with an audience. And then you can decide whether or not to become a ‘full time’ speaker. Most speakers find it beneficial to keep their hand as a salesperson, dentist, interior designer, or whatever, and that this hands-on experience continues to fuel their speaking career. The authenticity you gain by continuing to have hands-on experience is displayed on the platform.
7. Speaking is a field that requires the best you have to give. Nothing less is acceptable. You will be required to look your best, be on your best and most professional behavior at all times, and earn a truly stellar reputation. Constant improvement is essential in this field. You are only as good as your last concert.
8. In the speaking profession, you will meet some of the most interesting, dynamic and successful people in the world. In fact, he will soon become a member of this exclusive club and find that others will seek his company and experience from him.
9. You’ll get paid to travel and build an international reputation as an expert when you speak to organizations around the world. Quite an intoxicating experience! I know speakers that are more in demand in other countries than in yours.
10. Don’t forget the thrilling experience of audience applause or the thrill of a standing ovation. There is nothing like that!