Using speaking as a powerful tool to build your business is a little bit of a healing process. It's easier for some than others. If we can do it, you can do it.

Speaking is a publicity and exposure move for your business.

You can start small with your local networking group. And remember this is about telling your story. Don't try to do anything else but tell your awesome, authentic story.

If speaking triggers your perfectionism issue, don't let that happen. You have to take the action to move through the fear.

You might work with a speaking coach to hone in your skills. But you also might be a natural at it!

How do you get gigs?

There are two kinds of ways to get speaking gigs; get on others' stages or create your own.

Look into your Rotary Club for opportunities.

And...where do your ideal clients hang out? How can you get in front of them. What are the pros and cons of speaking for free?

To be a great speaker, make sure you're making your audience feel something. Find the spots where people are leaning in, laughing, clapping, etc...

Give them an experience. Don't just talk at them. Engage.

You can build a speech from every single one of your failures and create a teaching moment from them.

Make sure you're networking at the events you want to speak at- it's one of the best ways to get a gig.