Finding speaking gigs can be challenging, but with the power of ChatGPT, you can streamline the process and uncover opportunities locally, regionally, statewide, and even nationally. ChatGPT has been mainstream for over a year now. If you're not using it, you have most likely heard of it. I've been using it ever since it came out and I've gotten a lot better at using it. This blog will walk you through how to effectively use ChatGPT to research and secure speaking gigs, including practical prompts and actionable tips to maximize your success.

Why Use the Power of ChatGPT to Find Speaking Gigs?

ChatGPT is a versatile tool that can save you hours of manual research and brainstorming. By providing specific prompts, ChatGPT can help you:

• Discover conferences, webinars, and networking events.
• Draft tailored outreach emails or pitches.
• Brainstorm creative ways to position yourself as a speaker.
• Find opportunities that align with your expertise and interests.

Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting, ChatGPT can act as your AI-powered assistant, making the process efficient and productive. When you think of ChatGPT as your virtual assistant, you must realize that you are the ultimate decision maker. You decide what you will use and how you might add your own special personal style to it.

Uh, What's a Prompt?

Glad you asked! The prompt sets the context for ChatGPT's response or output. A prompt is the input or question you give to ChatGPT to guide its response. It serves as a way to communicate your goals and needs to the AI. A well-crafted prompt includes specific details, such as the type of information you’re seeking, your preferences, and any relevant context. The clearer and more detailed your prompt/instructions, the better and more actionable the response will be. You'll find specific prompts below to help you help ChatGPT provide good responses.

Free vs. Paid ChatGPT: Which Should You Use?

When deciding whether to use the free version of ChatGPT or upgrade to the paid version, it’s important to consider your needs. The free version (GPT-3.5) is highly capable and can handle basic research and simple prompts effectively. However, the paid version (GPT-4) offers advanced features, including better understanding of complex prompts, more detailed and accurate responses, and priority access during peak times. For speakers who want comprehensive research and customized outreach materials, the paid version may be worth the $20/month investment.

If you’re just starting or using ChatGPT occasionally, the free version is a great starting point. I started with the free version and found that it wasn't always available and learned that with the paid version, you rarely if ever have to wait to use it. I immediately subscribed and feel that it has been well worth the $20/month. Either way, you'll create an account. With the free version, older chats may be deleted periodically and you won't have an extensive history of saved chats. The paid version often provides more stability in retaining chat histories.  

Another advantage of the paid version includes the CustomGPT system that allows users to create tailored assistants, with specific instructions, behaviors, and capabilities. The CustomGPT system specializes in remembering all of your instructions. For example, with it you could create several virtual assistants, one for marketing, one for planning, one for whatever! Right now, I only have one - my marketing virtual assistant that helps me with all of my social media marketing. 

Getting Started with ChatGPT for Speaking Gigs

To get the most out of ChatGPT, you’ll need to provide detailed information about yourself and your goals. When interacting with ChatGPT, consider including the following details:

• Your Expertise: Specify your speaking topics (e.g., leadership, mental health, digital marketing).
• Target Audience: Mention the type of audience you want to reach (e.g., business professionals, educators, students).
• Geographic Preferences: Indicate whether you’re looking for local, regional, or virtual opportunities.
• Availability and Budget Expectations: Share your availability and any expectations for honorariums or travel reimbursements.

Sample Prompts to Use the Power of ChatGPT to Find Speaking Gigs

Here are some specific prompts you can use with ChatGPT to uncover speaking opportunities:

Local Gigs

• Prompt: “What are some upcoming conferences or networking events within 50 miles of [City] that focus on [Topic]? Include any details about how I can apply as a speaker and whether or not it's a paid opportunity.”

Regional or Statewide Gigs

• Prompt: “Can you list conferences or events in [State] related to [Industry/Topic] that are accepting speaker applications? Include any details about how I can apply as a speaker and whether or not it's a paid opportunity.”

National Gigs

• Prompt: “What are some national organizations or associations hosting conferences or webinars on [Topic]? How can I pitch myself as a speaker? Include whether or not it's a paid opportunity.”

Virtual Speaking Opportunities

• Prompt: “What virtual summits, podcasts, or webinars are happening in the next three months on [Topic]? Include how I can contact the organizers.”

Leveraging ChatGPT for Outreach

ChatGPT isn’t just a research tool; it can also assist with crafting professional outreach messages. Here are some examples:

Drafting a Pitch Email

• Prompt: “Can you help me write a professional email to pitch myself as a speaker to [Event Name]? My expertise is in [Topic], and I’d like to highlight my ability to engage [specific audience].”

Preparing Your Bio

• Prompt: “Can you draft a compelling speaker bio for me? I’m an expert in [Topic], and my speaking style is [engaging, educational, inspiring, etc.].”

Tailoring a Topic Proposal

• Prompt: “What’s a creative way to present [Topic] as a compelling talk for [Event Name]?”

Pro Tips for Using ChatGPT Effectively

1. Be Specific: The more details you provide in your prompt, the better the results. Include dates, locations, industries, and your unique qualifications.
2. Follow Up: If ChatGPT's first response isn’t detailed enough, ask follow-up questions to refine the information.
3. Verify Leads: While ChatGPT can provide great suggestions, always double-check event details and deadlines on official websites.
4. Experiment with Variations: Try rephrasing prompts to uncover additional insights or opportunities.

Examples of Opportunities ChatGPT Can Help You Find

Here are some types of events and opportunities ChatGPT can help you identify:

• Local Conferences and Meetups: Perfect for networking and gaining exposure.
• Statewide or Regional Events: Opportunities to establish yourself as a go-to expert in your field.
• National Conferences: Higher-profile gigs that can boost your credibility.
• Podcasts and Webinars: Virtual platforms to reach a broader audience.

Unleash Your Speaking Potential

Using the power of ChatGPT to find speaking gigs can revolutionize your approach to securing opportunities. By providing detailed prompts and leveraging AI’s capabilities, you can uncover new events, connect with organizers, and position yourself as an in-demand speaker.

Start exploring today by using the sample prompts in this blog, and watch your speaking career take off. Let ChatGPT be your secret weapon in finding the gigs you’ve been dreaming of! Let me know how it goes and what questions you may have. I have gotten pretty good with using ChatGPT and would love to help you!