Are You Motivational Speaker Material

Have you ever been to a meeting or conference where there was a keynote speaker. When that speaker was finished, did you feel enthusiastic, energized, and confident--or--tired, bored and glad to get out of there. You have just witnessed the difference between a so-so speaker and one who gets paid big bucks for what he does. O yes, I mean 'BIG BUCKS'. There are some reports of $100,000 to 200,000 for 'in demand' speakers, for one appearance.

Perhaps this occupation interests you and you think you could be good at it. It's not a bad way to make a living. You get expense paid travel, you get to meet lots of interesting people and you get paid.

Think about the following things. Are you comfortable in the limelight or do you experience stage fright? Do you have a good command of the language you will be presenting your speech in? Do you have a topic or niche that you are particularly knowledgeable about? If your answer is 'yes', you are well on your way to your goal. If you answered 'no' to any of them, do not despair as these obstacles can be overcome.

Lets take stage fright first, as it is the biggest hurdle for most people. Now I don't want to sound too harsh here, but if you really think about it, stage fright is self absorption, self importance and selfishness. Now we have all suffered from stage fright but it is important to look outside yourself and consider your audience. They have probably paid good money to hear you speak and they are there because they want to hear what you have to say. If you start considering what you must do for them, you will not be concentrating on yourself and you will feel calmer, and more interested in your surroundings.

A good command of the language. Practice with a tape or video recorder and then critique the tape, or have someone else critique it for you. If you need upgrading, there are lots of courses you can take at night school to improve your diction and delivery. You could also consider joining Toastmasters International, if you can find a club near you. There you will get to practice speaking in front of your peers in a non judgemental atmosphere.

Are you knowledgeable about a particular topic or niche? Perhaps you have spent many years in the same type of occupation and know everything about it. Maybe you have a hobby or interest that you are passionate about. All of these can be translated into your own special niche. If you think that maybe you don't know everything about the subject, then research until you do. Experts in a particular field are the ones that get hired.

I hope this has given you food for thought. Good speakers are in high demand. The pay is great and it actually sounds like fun.

Elizabeth Gough lives in Northern Canada and has always had an interest in all topics of self improvement. Elizabeth Gough owns and operates http:// Motivational Speaker