Business English Speakers
You've got an international audience.
Or maybe your team is spread across time zones and languages.
Either way, you need someone who can talk about English not just as a language, but as a tool for doing business across cultures.
So how do you find the right business English speakers who actually understand what your audience cares about?
Not just grammar, but communication that drives results.
That's where this list helps you cut through the noise.
You'll find speakers who specialize in business English training, global workplace fluency, and communication strategy.
Some are teachers, some are former execs, and some are both.
But all of them know how to speak to professionals who use English to get work done.
I've seen how the right business English speaker can shift the energy in a room - not by dazzling with jargon, but by making people feel heard across language barriers.
Whether you're hosting a corporate summit or a podcast for international teams, these speakers can help you make your message land.
Explore the featured business English speakers below or book someone who fits your audience perfectly.
Top Business English Speakers List for 2025
Yana Alekperova
Speak confidently, connect globally
Joanne Hayward
Empowering women to lead with confidence in English
Joan Ramirez
Empowering entrepreneurs
Jon Williams
Empowering English learners with practical tips, relatable examples, and a dash of humor for confident communication.
Theo Kapodistrias
Award-winning Speaker + Lawyer, TEDx professional, and MC
Steve Sapato
The most famous unfamous Emcee in America
Christiaan Willems
How to NOT to come across as a 'Complete Dick' in your Business Videos
Dr. Cristina Castagnini
Where expertise meets authenticity
What Makes a Great Business English Speaker
Take someone like Simon Sinek. He doesn't just talk about leadership or business strategy-he frames it in a way that's accessible, even if English isn't your first language. That's a key trait: clarity without condescension. A great business English speaker adapts their tone, pace, and vocabulary depending on who's listening. Whether they're addressing a room full of startup founders in Berlin or corporate executives in Singapore, they know how to meet their audience where they are.
But it's not just about language. Storytelling plays a huge role. The best speakers weave real-world examples into their talks-think of how Indra Nooyi, former PepsiCo CEO, uses personal anecdotes to explain global strategy. These stories make abstract ideas tangible. They also show vulnerability, which builds trust.
Confidence is another big one, but not the chest-thumping kind. It's the calm, grounded confidence that comes from knowing your topic inside out. Great speakers don't rush. They pause. They emphasize. They invite questions. And they're not afraid to admit what they don't know.
In short, a great business English speaker is someone who blends linguistic precision with emotional intelligence. They're not just fluent in English-they're fluent in people.
How to Select the Best Business English Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Goals
- Know who you're speaking to. Are your listeners early-stage entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, or international business students?
- Clarify your outcome. Do you want your audience to be inspired, educated, or take specific action?
2. Search Strategically
- Use platforms like Talks.co. Their speaker pages give you a quick snapshot of expertise, past talks, and availability.
- Check LinkedIn and YouTube. Look for clips of past presentations, interviews, or webinars.
- Ask your network. Referrals from other hosts can save you tons of time.
3. Evaluate Communication Style
- Watch how they speak. Are they clear, engaging, and easy to follow?
- Look for adaptability. Can they explain complex ideas in simple terms?
- Check for cultural sensitivity. Especially if your audience is global.
4. Review Their Track Record
- Have they spoken on similar shows or stages? Experience matters.
- Do they have testimonials or reviews? These can reveal a lot about reliability and audience impact.
5. Connect Before You Commit
- Schedule a quick call. This helps you gauge chemistry and alignment.
- Ask about customization. Can they tailor their message to your theme?
Remember, the best business English speaker isn't the one with the most followers-it's the one who can speak directly to your audience's needs and leave them thinking, 'That was exactly what I needed to hear.'
How to Book a Business English Speaker
1. Identify Your Ideal Speaker Profile
- Define the topic you want covered-leadership, marketing, cross-cultural communication, etc.
- Consider your audience's language level and business background.
- Decide if you want a native speaker or someone who learned English as a second language (which can be more relatable for global audiences).
2. Use the Right Tools
- Head to Talks.co and browse their curated list of business English speakers.
- Use filters to narrow down by industry, region, or availability.
- Visit each speaker's profile page to watch videos, read bios, and check ratings.
3. Reach Out with a Clear Pitch
- Be specific in your request: include your show's theme, audience size, format (live, recorded, webinar), and preferred dates.
- Explain why you think they're a good fit-mention a past talk or insight that stood out.
- Ask about their speaking fee or if they're open to a value exchange (e.g. exposure, lead gen).
4. Confirm the Logistics
- Set the date and time, and confirm time zones.
- Share the platform details (Zoom, StreamYard, etc.) and any tech requirements.
- Provide a run-of-show or outline so they know what to expect.
5. Promote and Prepare
- Announce the speaker on your socials and email list.
- Send them promotional assets they can share too.
- Schedule a quick prep call to align on tone, timing, and audience interaction.
Booking a speaker is more than just filling a slot. It's about creating a meaningful experience for your audience-and that starts with a smooth, respectful booking process.
Common Questions on Business English Speakers
What is a business english speaker
At its core, a business English speaker bridges the gap between global communication and local understanding. They're often invited to speak at virtual summits, podcasts, webinars, or conferences where the audience may span multiple countries and industries. Their role is to communicate complex business ideas in clear, accessible English-especially for listeners who may not be native English speakers.
These speakers can come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are CEOs or founders sharing their journey. Others are consultants, educators, or industry experts who specialize in areas like marketing, finance, or HR. What unites them is their ability to speak the language of business fluently and clearly, using English as the medium.
Importantly, being a business English speaker isn't just about fluency-it's about intentionality. They choose words that resonate across cultures. They avoid idioms or jargon that might confuse a global audience. And they structure their content in a way that's easy to follow, even if you're multitasking or listening in a second language.
In short, a business English speaker is a communicator who helps ideas travel across borders, industries, and language levels.
Why is a business english speaker important
In today's global marketplace, English is often the default language for business communication. But just because someone speaks English doesn't mean they can explain business concepts effectively. A business English speaker fills that gap. They're trained-or naturally skilled-in delivering insights that make sense to diverse audiences, whether it's a startup founder in Nairobi or a sales manager in Toronto.
Their importance also lies in accessibility. Imagine a virtual summit with attendees from Brazil, India, and Germany. A native English speaker who uses slang or fast-paced idioms might lose half the room. But a business English speaker knows how to pace their delivery, choose inclusive language, and keep everyone engaged.
From a host's perspective, bringing on a business English speaker can elevate your event's credibility. It signals that you care about communication quality, not just content. And for the audience, it means they walk away with real value-insights they can understand and apply.
Whether you're running a podcast, a webinar series, or a global summit, having a business English speaker ensures your message doesn't just get heard-it gets understood.
What do business english speakers do
- Deliver Keynotes and Presentations. They speak at virtual and in-person events, often on topics like entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, or cross-cultural business.
- Educate Global Audiences. Many business English speakers run workshops or webinars aimed at professionals who use English as a second language. Their goal is to make complex business topics easy to grasp.
- Bridge Cultural Gaps. By using clear, neutral English and culturally aware examples, they help international audiences connect with the content.
- Support Hosts and Organizers. They often collaborate with event planners or podcast hosts to tailor their message to the audience. This might include adjusting vocabulary, tone, or delivery style.
- Create Evergreen Content. Some speakers also produce courses, write books, or contribute to online platforms like Talks.co, where their insights can reach wider audiences over time.
- Facilitate Conversations. In panel discussions or interviews, they help keep the dialogue flowing and ensure everyone is on the same page-literally and linguistically.
Whether they're speaking to a boardroom in London or a Zoom room full of freelancers in Manila, business English speakers make sure the message lands-and sticks.
How to become a business english speaker
1. Define Your Niche and Audience.
- Are you speaking to corporate executives, startup founders, or international students? Pick a lane.
- Example: If you're fluent in both Mandarin and English, you might specialize in helping Chinese professionals master business English for global trade.
2. Sharpen Your Business English Skills.
- Focus on industry-specific vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and presentation language.
- Use resources like Harvard Business Review, The Economist, and business podcasts to stay current.
3. Build Your Speaking Portfolio.
- Start small: offer free webinars, speak at local meetups, or create short videos on LinkedIn.
- Create a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co to showcase your bio, topics, and testimonials.
4. Get Certified (Optional but Helpful).
- Certifications like TEFL, TESOL, or a business communication diploma can boost your credibility.
- If you're targeting corporate clients, consider a background in business consulting or coaching.
5. Network and Pitch Yourself.
- Use Talks.co to connect with event hosts looking for speakers in your niche.
- Reach out to HR departments, training coordinators, and business schools.
6. Practice, Get Feedback, Improve.
- Record your talks, ask for feedback, and refine your delivery.
- Join speaker groups or Toastmasters to keep leveling up.
Becoming a business English speaker isn't just about language fluency. It's about knowing your audience, delivering value, and building a brand that gets you booked again and again.
What do you need to be a business english speaker
1. Language Proficiency with a Business Edge
You must be fluent in English, but more importantly, you need to understand how English is used in professional settings. This includes:
- Business jargon and terminology.
- Formal and informal tones for different contexts.
- Presentation and negotiation language.
2. Industry Knowledge
Business English speakers are often expected to tailor their talks to specific industries. Whether it's finance, tech, or logistics, having a grasp of the sector's language and challenges is key. For instance, a speaker addressing fintech professionals should know terms like 'blockchain', 'compliance', or 'API integration'.
3. Public Speaking Skills
You need to be able to deliver your message clearly, confidently, and engagingly. This includes:
- Voice modulation and pacing.
- Storytelling techniques.
- Handling Q&A sessions.
4. Cultural Intelligence
Business English is used globally. Understanding cultural nuances in communication, such as how direct or indirect to be, can make or break your talk. A speaker addressing Japanese executives will need a different tone than one speaking to a New York sales team.
5. A Platform to Get Booked
Having a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co helps you get discovered by event organizers. It also allows you to showcase your topics, past talks, and testimonials. It's your digital stage.
In short, being a business English speaker is about combining language mastery with business relevance and presentation skills. It's a unique blend that opens doors across industries and borders.
Do business english speakers get paid
Let's look at the key variables:
- Experience Level: Beginners might start with free or low-paid gigs to build their portfolio. Seasoned speakers can command thousands per session.
- Format: In-person keynotes often pay more than virtual webinars, though the latter can scale better.
- Region: Speakers in North America and Western Europe typically earn more than those in emerging markets, though online platforms are leveling the field.
- Client Type: Corporate clients usually pay more than educational institutions or nonprofits.
Pros of Being a Paid Business English Speaker:
- High earning potential with scalability through online courses or group training.
- Opportunities to travel or work remotely.
- Ability to build authority and attract consulting or coaching clients.
Cons:
- Income can be inconsistent, especially early on.
- Requires ongoing marketing and networking.
- Competitive field with rising global talent.
Example Pay Ranges (USD):
| Experience Level | Per Talk | Monthly (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | $50-$200 | $500-$1,000 |
| Mid-Level | $300-$1,000 | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Expert | $2,000-$10,000+ | $10,000+ |
How do business english speakers make money
1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most direct route. Companies, conferences, and training programs pay speakers to deliver talks or workshops on business communication, cross-cultural negotiation, or industry-specific English.
2. Online Courses and Webinars
Many speakers package their expertise into digital products. For example:
- A course on 'Business Email Writing for Non-Native Speakers'.
- A webinar series on 'Pitching in English for Startup Founders'.
3. Corporate Training Contracts
Longer-term gigs with companies looking to upskill their teams. These often include:
- Weekly sessions with sales or customer service teams.
- Customized programs for executives preparing for international roles.
4. Coaching and Consulting
One-on-one coaching for professionals who need personalized help. Think:
- A CEO preparing for an IPO roadshow in English.
- A marketing director polishing their presentation skills for a global audience.
5. Affiliate or Partner Revenue
Some speakers partner with platforms like Talks.co, language learning apps, or business schools. They earn commissions or fees for referring clients or co-hosting events.
6. Books and Digital Products
Publishing an eBook or guide like 'Business English for Tech Founders' can generate passive income and boost authority.
In short, business English speakers make money by turning their knowledge into value across multiple formats. The more you diversify, the more resilient your income becomes.
How much do business english speakers make
1. By Experience Level:
- Entry-Level: $25 to $100 per session. Often working with language schools or small businesses.
- Mid-Level: $150 to $500 per session. These speakers may have niche expertise or a growing online presence.
- Expert-Level: $1,000 to $10,000+ per keynote. These are speakers with strong reputations, books, or corporate contracts.
2. By Region:
- North America & Western Europe: Higher rates due to corporate budgets and demand.
- Asia & Latin America: Lower per-session rates, but high demand for English training can lead to volume-based income.
- Middle East: Corporate clients often pay premium rates for executive training.
3. By Revenue Model:
| Income Stream | Typical Monthly Range |
|---|---|
| Speaking Engagements | $1,000 - $10,000 |
| Online Courses | $500 - $20,000+ |
| Corporate Training | $2,000 - $15,000 |
| Coaching | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Digital Products | $200 - $5,000 |
A speaker offering a $1,500 monthly group coaching program for 10 clients earns $15,000/month. Add a $5,000 keynote and a $2,000 online course launch, and you're looking at $22,000 in a single month.
So while the average speaker might earn $3,000 to $5,000/month, top performers can easily exceed six figures annually. It all depends on how you package and scale your expertise.
How much do business english speakers cost
1. Type of Engagement:
- Webinars or Virtual Sessions: $100 to $1,000 per session.
- In-Person Workshops: $500 to $5,000+ depending on duration and customization.
- Keynote Speeches: $2,000 to $10,000+ for high-profile speakers.
2. Speaker Experience Level:
| Level | Cost per Session |
|---|---|
| Beginner | $50 - $200 |
| Intermediate | $300 - $1,000 |
| Expert | $2,000 - $10,000+ |
- Hiring a speaker in New York or London will cost more than in Bangkok or Bogotá.
- Specialized industries like finance or law may require speakers with niche knowledge, increasing the rate.
4. Customization and Prep Time:
- Off-the-shelf talks are cheaper.
- Custom workshops with pre-training assessments or follow-up coaching can double the cost.
5. Platform Fees:
- Booking through platforms like Talks.co may include service fees, but you also get vetted speakers and streamlined logistics.
Example Scenarios:
- A startup in Berlin might pay €500 for a 90-minute virtual session.
- A Fortune 500 company in Dubai could pay $7,000 for a two-day in-person workshop.
Bottom line: the cost of hiring a business English speaker depends on what you need, who you hire, and how you deliver it. But there's a speaker for every budget.
Who are the best business english speakers ever
- Simon Sinek - Famous for 'Start With Why', Sinek's talks are a masterclass in persuasive business English. His TED Talk has over 60 million views.
- Sheryl Sandberg - Former COO of Meta, Sandberg's communication style is direct, empathetic, and globally relatable. Her book 'Lean In' became a global movement.
- Tony Robbins - While known for motivation, Robbins has delivered countless business-focused keynotes that blend psychology with strategy.
- Indra Nooyi - The former PepsiCo CEO is known for her articulate and thoughtful presentations on leadership and global business.
- Guy Kawasaki - A former Apple evangelist, Kawasaki's talks on entrepreneurship and innovation are packed with practical business English.
- Ken Robinson - Though focused on education, his TED Talks are models of clear, engaging English that resonate with business audiences.
- Barack Obama - While not a business speaker per se, his speeches on economic policy and global leadership have influenced business leaders worldwide.
- Melinda Emerson - Known as the 'SmallBizLady', she's a go-to speaker for small business owners navigating English-speaking markets.
- Daniel Pink - Author of 'Drive' and 'To Sell is Human', Pink's talks are rich in business vocabulary and behavioral insights.
- Seth Godin - A marketing guru whose talks are simple, sharp, and packed with business relevance.
These speakers have shaped how business English is used on the global stage. Their styles vary, but they all share one thing: the ability to connect with diverse audiences using clear, impactful language.
Who are the best business english speakers in the world
- Vanessa Van Edwards (USA) - A behavioral researcher and speaker on communication science. Her talks are packed with practical tips for professionals using English in high-stakes settings.
- Andrew Tarvin (USA) - Known as the 'Humor Engineer', he blends business English with humor to teach leadership and productivity.
- Natsuyo Lipschutz (Japan/USA) - A bilingual speaker who helps Japanese professionals master business English for Western markets.
- Robin Sharma (Canada) - Author of 'The Leader Who Had No Title', Sharma's global talks are delivered in crisp, motivational business English.
- Chris Do (USA) - A creative entrepreneur who teaches branding and business strategy using clear, engaging English. His YouTube channel is a goldmine.
- Shaheen Mistri (India) - While focused on education, her talks on leadership and nonprofit strategy are delivered in accessible, high-level English.
- Julian Treasure (UK) - A sound expert who teaches how to speak so people want to listen. His TED Talks are essential for business communicators.
- Amy Cuddy (USA) - Known for her work on body language and presence, Cuddy's talks are widely used in business English training.
- Dorie Clark (USA) - A marketing strategist and author who speaks globally on personal branding and thought leadership.
- Lera Boroditsky (USA) - A cognitive scientist whose talks on language and perception are highly relevant for international business speakers.
These speakers are not just fluent in English. They're fluent in business, culture, and connection. Whether you're hiring or learning, this is the global talent to watch.
Common myths about business english speakers
- Myth 1: Business English speakers only teach language skills.
This one's a biggie. While many business English speakers do help professionals improve their communication, the best ones go far beyond grammar and vocabulary. They coach on cross-cultural communication, negotiation tactics, presentation skills, and even leadership language. For example, speakers like Heather Hansen focus on global intelligibility, helping executives from Asia and Europe communicate clearly in multinational settings. It's not just about English... it's about influence.
- Myth 2: You need to be a native English speaker to succeed.
Not true. In fact, non-native speakers often bring a deeper understanding of the challenges learners face. Take Dr. Marianna Pascal, a Canadian speaker based in Malaysia. Her TEDx talk on speaking English with confidence has millions of views, and she's built a thriving speaking career in Southeast Asia. Her success shows that clarity and relatability matter more than accent.
- Myth 3: Business English speakers are only relevant in corporate boardrooms.
Think again. Business English speakers are in demand across industries: tech startups in Berlin, tourism boards in Latin America, manufacturing firms in Vietnam. Anywhere professionals use English to connect globally, there's a need. Some speakers even specialize in niche sectors like aviation English or medical English, tailoring their talks to highly specific audiences.
- Myth 4: It's a saturated market.
Sure, there are a lot of English trainers out there. But professional business English speakers who combine language expertise with business acumen and stage presence? That's a much smaller pool. If you bring a unique voice and solve a real problem for your audience, there's plenty of room to grow.
Bottom line: Business English speakers are not just language tutors. They're strategic communicators, cultural navigators, and trusted advisors in the global business arena.
Case studies of successful business english speakers
Take Robin Walker, for example. Based in Spain, Robin built his reputation by focusing on pronunciation for international intelligibility. He didn't try to 'fix' accents. Instead, he helped professionals speak clearly across borders. His work with multinational companies led to keynote invites at conferences like IATEFL and collaborations with publishers like Oxford University Press. His niche? Helping global teams understand each other better.
Then there's Chia Suan Chong, a business communication trainer who carved her path by combining intercultural intelligence with English language training. She's spoken at events across Europe and Asia, and her sessions often blend storytelling, roleplay, and real-world case studies. Her background in applied linguistics gave her the credibility, but her ability to connect with diverse audiences made her a speaker in demand.
Another standout is Paul Emmerson. He transitioned from teaching business English to writing bestselling books and speaking at industry events. His talks often focus on practical frameworks for teaching business English more effectively, and he's influenced thousands of trainers worldwide. His case shows how thought leadership in a niche can lead to speaking opportunities.
What ties these stories together? Each speaker found a specific angle-pronunciation, intercultural communication, teaching methodology-and built authority around it. They didn't try to be everything to everyone. Instead, they went deep, not wide. And that's what made them stand out in a crowded space.
Future trends for business english speakers
First, there's a growing demand for hybrid communication skills. It's not enough to teach 'business English' anymore. Companies want speakers who can help their teams navigate virtual meetings, asynchronous communication, and cross-cultural nuances. Think Zoom etiquette meets intercultural negotiation. This is especially true in remote-first companies with teams scattered across continents.
Second, AI is changing the game. Tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly are helping professionals write better emails and reports, but they can't replace human interaction. Business English speakers who can coach on emotional intelligence, tone, and real-time communication are becoming even more valuable. Expect to see more talks on 'humanizing digital communication' or 'speaking with impact in AI-assisted workplaces.'
Third, regional markets are heating up. While Europe and North America have long been strongholds, we're seeing rising demand in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and parts of Africa. These regions are investing in English as a business tool, and they're looking for speakers who understand local challenges. If you can localize your message, you'll stand out.
Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Micro-niching: Speakers focusing on specific industries (e.g., fintech, logistics, healthcare) are gaining traction.
- Soft skills integration: Talks that combine English with leadership, storytelling, or team dynamics are in demand.
- On-demand content: Companies want speakers who can deliver both live and recorded sessions.
- Credential stacking: Certifications in coaching, DEI, or intercultural training are becoming differentiators.
The takeaway? Business English speaking is evolving into something more strategic and specialized. If you can adapt, the opportunities are wide open.
Tools and resources for aspiring business english speakers
- LinkedIn Learning: Offers courses on public speaking, business communication, and intercultural fluency. Tip: Complete a few and add them to your profile to boost authority.
- ELTons Innovation Awards: Run by the British Council, this award platform highlights innovative tools and speakers in English language teaching. Tip: Follow past winners to spot trends and potential collaborators.
- SPEAKING Pro Membership: Offers training, templates, and coaching for speakers looking to land more gigs. Especially useful if you're transitioning from teaching to speaking.
- Canva: Not just for slide design. Use it to create speaker one-sheets, workshop flyers, and branded social media posts. Tip: Keep a consistent visual identity across platforms.
- Zoom Events: A powerful tool for hosting paid or free speaking sessions. Tip: Use breakout rooms for interactive language practice or roleplay scenarios.
- Trello: Organize your speaking calendar, pitch tracker, and content ideas. Tip: Create a board just for event outreach with columns like 'Pitched', 'Followed Up', 'Booked'.
- YouTube Creator Studio: If you're sharing short tips or sample talks, this tool helps you track engagement and optimize content. Tip: Use subtitles to reach non-native audiences more effectively.
These tools can help you build your brand, streamline your workflow, and connect with the right audiences. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, having the right stack makes a difference.