Embracing your niche as a professional speaker is not an easy path, because it means to let go of many attractive opportunities that do not fit your niche. When I started my own business, I had the tendency to broaden my services because I love to do many different things and frankly speaking, it was hard to say ‘No’ because I needed the money. I see the same temptation among other starting entrepreneurs and speakers in an attempt to maximise their market reach.
However, focusing on a very specific niche is what truly brings success. Popular general topics such as “Leadership” and “Motivation” are really too broad to position yourself. To become a thought leader, there are two key factors to consider: connecting with yourself and transforming your audience.
Connecting with yourself requires deep soul searching. I regularly ask my audience “What is your spark?” – in other words: what is your purpose, what is your passion, who are you at your core level? I spoke with many wonderful people and got many inspiring answers.
I challenge you to describe your spark in just one word. One disclaimer though: When you ask yourself surface questions, you’ll get surface answers. When you are prepared to look deeper into yourself, you will get closer to the core of who you truly are. THAT’s the insight that changes everything and THAT’s where your true potential lies. Ask yourself why-why-why to get more clarity. Over time, the answers reveal themselves but only if you intentionally look for them. For this to happen, you need to step out of your daily stress zone: spend some time alone without your phone and other distractions. My major life decisions and inspirations all came from silent meditation retreats.
Transforming your audience starts with understanding them on a profound level. Who are the individuals you want to impact? Ask people about their pain points, aspirations and desires. Show your audience that you are a valuable resource who truly understands and can address their needs.
By developing this deep understanding, you can tailor your message to resonate with their experiences. Craft compelling stories backed up by facts that speak directly to their concerns and offer practical solutions. Research has shown that when facts are presented in the form of a compelling story, people are 22 times more likely to remember them (source: Forbes). Adding your personal touch makes your talk unique and delivering it with passion makes your talk inspiring.
When you are 100% connected with yourself and gain a deep understanding of your audience, the possibilities are endless. You become authentic, laser-focused and speak effortlessly in a state of flow. Instead of hustling for work, opportunities will come to you because your message resonates with your target audience.
Finding your niche and becoming a thought leader is a journey of self-discovery and audience understanding. You can only truly connect with others when you are connected with yourself first and foremost. It takes courage and determination to embrace your fear, to let go of the need to please everyone and to find your spark but the rewards are immeasurable.
Imagine yourself standing on stage, being your authentic self and transforming the lives of your audience members… how wonderful is that!
Your unique voice and expertise have the power to make a lasting impact. It’s time to ace it with your niche!
