5 Tips to Become a Motivational Speaker
by James R. Malinchak

Do you see yourself as a good motivator? Do you like to lift people’s spirits? Do you have a knack for inspiring people by just giving really great advice? If you answered yes to most of these questions, you might consider a career in motivational speaking.

There is something venerable about being a motivational speaker. It signifies mastery over adversity. Being a motivational speaker you should possess a certain amount of wisdom and understanding in the process of overcoming hindrances to any goal. Most of all, a motivational speaker gives people the intangible drive to move forward and initiate change in their lives.

If you want to become a motivational speaker you first need to know that it is a challenging job and there are certain guidelines to go by in order to become a successful motivational speaker.

Assess your experience, education, and ability

To be a credible and convincing motivational speaker you have to be able to back it up with your own personal experience. You must ask yourself these questions, "Have I experienced great hardship?" "Have I risen above adversity?" or "Did I have an ’AHA!’ experience that I can effectively share with other people."

Generally, it is important that you are a battle–tested life warrior; someone who had been down but got back up and succeeded in life. You must see yourself as a successful person. This will give you every right to motivate and preach. After all, you wouldn’t listen to a hobo’s advice, would you?

Next, you must examine your educational credentials. Although not necessary and not as compelling as experience, you should at least have some kind of college education. If you don’t have any, you should be constantly trying improve yourself by getting some additional education and training such as speaking seminars and one on one coaching.

Measure your ability in speaking and motivating. Do you really have the aptitude for motivational speaking? If you believe that you still need further improvement, research your topic and practice in front of the mirror and small crowds.

Find a mentor

This is very important. You have to find someone you can emulate; someone you can draw inspiration from.

It is not necessary to exactly get in contact with this person. Having his/her book or some tapes is sufficient enough but it is always better if you can confer with your mentor. Just be sure that your chosen mentor is an exceptional motivational speaker as well. Aim high, don’t settle for mediocrity.

Learn the Psychology of Motivation

You may have the gift, the experience, and the education but sometimes it might not be enough. You must distinctly comprehend the psychology behind motivation. Knowing it well can give you a much clearer understanding on how to make your audience relate to a certain experience or anecdote you may share.

A definite understanding of the science will help you handle different types of crowds and themes. It can help you handle rebuttals from the audience so it can be beneficial to arm yourself with a bit of psychology.

The importance of being seen as an EXPERT

A good motivational speaker must have an aura of superiority. You must be confident in your message and convey, with conviction, that what you say is the truth.

In this industry, confidence and image is everything. You must dress like a professional. No one will believe you if you lack confidence in your assertions. As a speaker, you are analogous to a performer. You’re the star, put on a great show!

Promote yourself. You’re a business person as well

Motivational speaking is also a lucrative and aggressive business. You have to recognize that you must market and sell yourself effectively to be a successful motivational speaker. What you are selling here is your performance and if you have already put on some worthy gigs you should get endorsements from credible people. They can help take you to the next level.

Additionally, write and publish books. It is a great way to build a reputation and credibility. It’s a great marketing move.

If you are just starting, you must be willing to work for free to get your name out. Volunteer in some clubs, try Toastmasters and other local groups. Start slowly and have patience as you learn the ropes.

About the Author
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