When to Start Charging as a Speaker: Your Guide to Earning
- Christy Staples
- Feb 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 4
You've put in the work, honed your craft, and gained valuable experience. Now you're wondering: “When should I start charging for my speaking?”
Transitioning from free to paid speaking engagements can feel overwhelming, but your time, expertise, and energy have immense value. The key is knowing when you’re ready to take the leap.
3 Signs You're Ready to Start Charging
1. You’ve Built Experience
Have you delivered talks at events, churches, schools, or on social media? Have you received positive feedback or testimonials? If so, it’s time to stop giving it all away for free.
💡 Pro Tip: Document every speaking gig, even unpaid ones, to showcase your credibility and track record.
2. You Deliver Real Value
Are your audiences walking away inspired, educated, or transformed? Are event organizers or attendees reaching out to you for advice, workshops, or additional engagements? If people are benefiting from your message, it’s a clear sign your expertise is worth compensation.
3. You’re Being Asked to Speak
Are event organizers reaching out to you? Have you become known for a particular topic or area of expertise? When people actively seek you out, they recognize your value—and so should you.
How to Transition from Free to Paid Speaking
Start Small
If you're hesitant about charging, begin with a modest fee. As you gain more experience and confidence, gradually increase your rates.
Package Your Expertise
Boost your value by offering additional services such as:
Q&A sessions
Workshops
Downloadable materials
Be Confident in Your Worth
Remember, you're not just speaking—you’re delivering years of experience, insights, and inspiration. That’s worth every penny!
It's Time to Start Earning
Doubt can hold you back, but your dedication deserves compensation. You’ve invested in your craft—now, let your craft invest back into you.
🔥 Stay tuned! In our next post, we’ll dive into what to charge—because knowing your worth is one thing, but pricing it effectively is another!
Start charging with confidence and own your value!
What's Your Speaking Fee Sweet Spot? Find Out Now with Our Speaker Fee Calculator!
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