World Monitor Magazine WM_Energy_ 2019_web | Page 50

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What it’s really like to be
a public speaker
If you’ve thought about taking your
expertise out on the road, here are some
things to know before setting off.
by John K. Coyle
Everyone involved in business today knows that the gig economy
is flourishing. Perhaps you’ve even thought about joining it — not
as an Airbnb host or Uber driver, but as a public speaker. It’s a
pretty sweet gig, after all. You get to travel the world and get
paid to go to parties, all while sharing your passions and expertise
with interesting — and interested —people. I’ve been a full-
time keynote speaker for almost four years, so I have firsthand
knowledge of just how awesome it is, and people often ask me
what it’s like. The truth is that there are a lot of perks involved
with making a career out of public speaking, but this job also
requires perseverance and hustle. Be sure you know what you’re
in for before giving up your corner office for life on the road.
The good part
There might be better jobs out there, but I doubt it. Think about
all of the highlights in an average public speaking gig. You take
an all-expenses-paid trip to a luxurious resort or hotel — often
at the beach or in one of the world’s coolest cities. Usually,
there is a reception the evening before the speaking event, and
you’re introduced to the host organization’s leaders and event
sponsors — all inevitably interesting people who open up to you
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about their lives. You have some fine wine and a great meal,
more conversation, and then finally return to your hotel room,
where there is often a welcome gift waiting for you. Unlike with
consulting and many other road-warrior gigs, you don’t have to
stay up late preparing materials for your talk, because you know
the material cold.
The truth is that there are a lot of perks involved
with making a career out of public speaking,
but this job also requires perseverance and
hustle. Be sure you know what you’re in for.
The next morning, when it’s your time to speak, you get a
grand introduction, take the stage, and (hopefully) pull the
audience deep into your stories and frameworks. As you exit
stage left, the applause rings in your ears and the feeling
of having made a difference lingers in your mind. Afterward,
people line up to talk to you and tell you a little about
themselves. Then there’s often another reception and dinner,
and more people approach you all evening long to share their