The Secret to Using Your Book as a Gateway to Speaking Opportunities

Have you ever thought about using your book to land speaking gigs?

Imagine stepping onto a stage, feeling the excitement in the room, and seeing people eager to hear your words. Speaking is one of the best ways to build your credibility, make real connections, and sell more books. Speaking events can be life-changing and open up many new opportunities.

I’ve seen authors step onto the stage and watch their careers take off. They gain visibility, build their personal brand, and find more opportunities than they ever imagined.

Let’s explore how your book can help you do the same.

How Your Book Sets You Apart

Event organizers are always looking for speakers who can offer value and keep audiences interested. This is where your book helps. A published book sets you apart from others. It’s like your credibility badge. Writing a book shows you know your stuff and can explain it clearly.

For example, think of Brené Brown. Her TED Talk on vulnerability became a hit and boosted her book sales. Her book and talk worked perfectly together, showing her expertise. When people see you speak, they connect with you on a deeper level. They’re not just hearing your words — they’re also experiencing your energy and passion. Afterward, they want to take a piece of you home, and that’s where your book comes in. It becomes a keepsake they can return to.

How Your Book Helps You Find Your Audience

Not sure where to start with speaking gigs? Your book holds the answer. Think about who you wrote your book for: business leaders, parents, educators, or creative professionals? This will help you find the right speaking opportunities. Your book already has a built-in audience. You just need to tap into it!

Here’s a tip: start small. You don’t need to go for a TED Talk right away. Start with local events, small workshops, book clubs, or even online webinars. These smaller settings let you improve your message, gain confidence, and build speaking experience. The more specific your audience, the better. You want to speak to people who will benefit most from your message.

For example, if your book is about sustainable living, look for environmental groups, community events, or eco-friendly organizations. As you gain experience and positive feedback, you’ll build momentum that leads to bigger stages.

Pitching Yourself to Event Organizers

Reaching out to event organizers can feel scary at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Focus on how your talk will help their audience. Just saying, “I wrote a book” isn’t enough. You need to explain why your message matters and how it will inspire their attendees.

Your book is your best asset, so use it! When pitching, include a copy of your book or a free chapter. This shows organizers your expertise and the value you bring. Based on the topics in your book, suggest a few different angles for your talk. This gives them options and helps them see where you fit in.

Another tip: don’t wait for invitations — be proactive. Research events in your niche and reach out directly. Organizers will appreciate your initiative, and your book will give you an edge over others.

Building Your Speaking Portfolio

Once you land your first gig, don’t stop. Every event is a step to the next one. Document your journey — take photos, record videos, and collect audience feedback. These are valuable for future pitches. The more professional content you have, the easier it will be to get more gigs.

There are tools to help you gather feedback, like Talkadot (affiliate link). It lets you collect feedback and use it to improve your pitch. Positive reviews and testimonials build credibility and trust with organizers.

Speaking gigs also add new life to your book. Each time you speak, you gain new insights, stories, and ideas that add depth to your message. Sometimes these talks even spark ideas for your next book!

The Networking Power of Speaking Gigs

One of the best parts of speaking gigs is the networking. Speaking on stage is just one part. The real magic happens when you interact with the audience afterward. These one-on-one talks often lead to more opportunities. Someone in the audience might know another event organizer or work at a company looking for speakers. Or they might be impressed and want to buy a bulk order of your book for their team.

So, don’t be shy! Stay around after your talk and engage with people. Ask for referrals. If someone enjoyed your talk, ask if they know other events where you could speak. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to land more gigs.

Also, follow up with people you meet. Connect with them on LinkedIn, send a thank-you email, or keep them updated about your next event. Building these relationships over time can lead to new opportunities.

Your Book Is Just the Beginning

Writing a book is a huge achievement, but it’s just the beginning. Your book is a tool to create new opportunities. By using your book to get speaking gigs, you’re doing more than just selling copies. You’re building credibility, expanding your influence, and making a lasting impact.

Speaking lets you share your message in a more personal way than a book can. It allows you to connect with people on a deeper level, and each talk leaves an impression. Plus, each time you step on stage, you’re reinforcing your brand and opening up new paths for growth.

Don’t let your book sit on a shelf. Use it to step into the spotlight and share your knowledge. Whether you’re speaking at small events or big conferences, each gig is a chance to expand your reach and inspire your audience. With each talk, you’re not just selling books — you’re building a platform for lasting success.