Here are 5 factors that are responsible for the success of any motivational speaker.
The importance of motivational speakers to humanity cannot be overemphasized. More people have begun to realize it, and as such, some people see an avenue to make money by becoming speakers. That’s not bad, but then, some fail to realize that the art of motivational speaking isn’t one to be forced on oneself just because of the money. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if you do, you may never be successful at it. Below are some of the factors responsible for the success of any motivational speaker.
1. Empathy
To become a successful motivational speaker, you must be able to put yourself in the shoes of your audience. In other words, you must fully understand their fears, worries, challenges, and needs. With these, it will be easier for you to connect with your audience because they’ll feel more comfortable listening to someone who truly understands their situation. You’ll also know the points to focus on, for best results. Great motivational speakers are vulnerable and share their life stories as well as the lessons they have learned overcoming great adversity. Share authentic stories of hope and inspiration.
2. Knowledge and Expertise
To be a successful motivational speaker, you need to know everything there is to know in your area of specialization. This will save you the avoidable embarrassment of running out of points if you have to speak for a very long time. Successful motivational speakers understand this, and that explains why they can speak for a month of Sundays without repeating or running out of points. So, if for instance, you have the intention of becoming a motivational speaker for educators, it’s advisable you have enough experience as an educator yourself. You should broaden your knowledge by reading as many useful books as possible. The worst thing that can happen to any motivational speaker is for him to blackout when one of his listeners asks a question related to his topic. Don’t be that unfortunate speaker.
3. Passion
As a motivational speaker, if you are passionate about your area of specialization, you’ll find it easier to gain enough knowledge about it. This is because you wouldn’t have to force yourself to read about that field; instead, you’ll always be eager and willing to gain as much knowledge as you can lay your hands on without feeling bored. Moreover, it’s been proven that people tend to perform much better when doing things they love.
4. Confidence
This one is a no-brainer. One of the functions of motivational speakers are to lift the spirits of their audience and give them the confidence to stand up to whatever challenges they are facing. Now, what happens when someone the audience looks up to for confidence lacks it himself? Remember you can’t give what you don’t have.
5. Bluntness
You don’t want to come across as rude, but then, you must always tell your listeners what they need to hear; not what they want to hear. It’s no use beating around the bush. Go straight to the point. A lot of the times, people will respect you for being bold enough to tell them the bitter truth.
Above are the major factors responsible for the success of any motivational speaker and if you intend to become one, you need to carry out a sincere self-evaluation to know where you stand and how you can improve.