Sales Speakers

Not every expert in sales is a sales speaker, and not every speaker can teach sales. So what exactly is a sales speaker?

A sales speaker is a professional who delivers talks, keynotes, or workshops focused on the art and science of selling. Their goal is to educate, motivate, and equip audiences with strategies that improve sales performance. These talks can range from high-level mindset shifts to tactical frameworks like objection handling or pipeline management.

Unlike general motivational speakers, sales speakers typically have deep experience in sales roles-whether that's in corporate sales, entrepreneurship, or consulting. They've walked the walk. They understand the nuances of buyer psychology, the pressure of quotas, and the evolving landscape of digital sales tools.

Sales speakers often present at conferences, company kickoffs, virtual summits, or industry-specific events. For example, someone like Keenan (author of 'Gap Selling') might speak at a SaaS conference about how to align sales messaging with customer pain points. Others might focus on regional challenges, like selling in emerging markets or navigating cultural differences in global sales.

In short, a sales speaker is a communicator who turns complex sales concepts into actionable insights-delivered in a way that energizes and educates their audience.

When you're organizing a sales-focused event, the right speaker isn't just a nice-to-have-they're a strategic asset.

First, a sales speaker brings in fresh perspectives. Internal training can become repetitive, but an external voice-especially one with a proven track record-can reframe challenges in a way your team hasn't considered. For example, a speaker who's worked across Asia and Europe might introduce cross-cultural sales techniques that your U.S.-based team hasn't encountered.

Second, they help build momentum. Whether it's a product launch, a quarterly sales kickoff, or a virtual summit, a compelling speaker can set the tone. They energize the room, align everyone around shared goals, and create a sense of urgency. Think of how speakers like Tony Hughes or Trish Bertuzzi can shift a room's energy with just a few insights about pipeline velocity or buyer intent.

Third, they offer credibility. Bringing in a respected voice shows your team-and your audience-that you're investing in their growth. It signals that this isn't just another meeting. It's a moment worth showing up for.

Finally, a great sales speaker can spark long-term change. The best talks don't just inspire-they lead to action. Attendees walk away with new tools, new language, and a renewed sense of purpose. That's the kind of ROI you can't always measure in dollars, but you'll see it in the next quarter's numbers.

Sales speakers do more than just talk-they teach, inspire, and transform how people think about selling.

Here's a breakdown of what sales speakers actually do:

- Deliver Keynotes and Workshops. They speak at conferences, corporate events, and virtual summits. These sessions might focus on topics like closing techniques, sales leadership, or navigating buyer objections.

- Customize Content for Specific Audiences. A sales speaker doesn't give the same talk to a fintech startup as they would to a manufacturing distributor. They research the audience and tailor their message accordingly.

- Share Proven Frameworks and Tools. Whether it's the MEDDIC sales process or storytelling for sales, they break down complex strategies into digestible, actionable steps.

- Motivate and Reframe Mindsets. Beyond tactics, sales speakers often help teams shift their mindset-from fear of rejection to confidence, from transactional selling to relationship-building.

- Consult and Collaborate. Some speakers also offer consulting or follow-up sessions. They might help a company implement what was taught during the talk or provide coaching to sales leaders.

- Bridge Knowledge Gaps. Especially in fast-changing industries like tech or e-commerce, sales speakers help teams stay ahead of trends-like using AI in prospecting or adapting to remote selling environments.

In essence, sales speakers act as catalysts. They bring in outside expertise, challenge the status quo, and leave audiences with tools they can use immediately. As mentioned in 'What is a sales speaker', they're not just presenters-they're educators with a mission.

Becoming a sales speaker isn't just about being good at selling. It's about knowing how to communicate that knowledge in a way that inspires, educates, and drives action. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Master the Craft of Selling
- Before you can teach others, you need to have real-world sales experience. Whether it's B2B, B2C, SaaS, or retail, build a track record of success.
- Tip: Document your wins. Case studies, metrics, and testimonials will be gold later.

2. Define Your Niche and Message
- Are you focused on cold outreach? Enterprise sales? Closing techniques? Pick a lane.
- Your message should be clear and repeatable. Think: what's the one thing you want people to remember after your talk?

3. Create Your Speaker Page
- Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a short video reel.
- Bonus: Talks.co connects event hosts with speakers, so you're discoverable from day one.

4. Start Speaking for Free (Strategically)
- Offer to speak at local meetups, webinars, or industry podcasts. Focus on audiences that align with your niche.
- Record every talk. You'll need this content for your reel and social proof.

5. Build Relationships with Event Hosts
- Use LinkedIn, Talks.co, and industry groups to connect with conference organizers and podcast producers.
- Don't pitch cold. Engage with their content, offer value, and then suggest a collaboration.

6. Package Your Offer
- Create a one-sheet with your topics, outcomes, and pricing tiers.
- Include options like keynotes, workshops, and virtual sessions.

7. Promote Yourself Consistently
- Share clips, insights, and behind-the-scenes content on social media.
- Use email newsletters to stay top of mind with your network.

Becoming a sales speaker is a journey, but with the right tools and strategy, you can build a brand that opens doors around the world.

To be a sales speaker, you need more than charisma and a microphone. Let's break down the essentials:

1. Deep Sales Expertise
You can't fake it. Audiences today are savvy, and they expect speakers to bring real-world experience. Whether you've led a high-performing sales team, scaled a startup's revenue, or closed million-dollar deals, your credibility starts with your track record.

2. A Clear Signature Topic
Generic talks don't cut it. You need a signature topic or framework that sets you apart. For example, Jill Konrath is known for her work on agile selling, while Grant Cardone pushes the 10X rule. Your message should solve a specific problem for a specific audience.

3. A Speaker Page and Demo Reel
Event organizers want to see what you're like on stage. A speaker page on platforms like Talks.co gives you a professional edge. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a 2-3 minute demo video. This is your sales pitch to get booked.

4. Presentation and Storytelling Skills
You don't need to be a TED Talk veteran, but you do need to know how to structure a compelling talk. Use stories, data, and audience interaction to keep people engaged. Practice is key. Toastmasters, improv classes, or coaching can help.

5. A Network of Hosts and Connectors
Speaking is a relationship business. Build connections with event organizers, podcast hosts, and other speakers. Talks.co is a great place to start, as it helps connect speakers with hosts looking for fresh voices.

In short, being a sales speaker is about combining your sales chops with the ability to teach, inspire, and connect. It's part performance, part strategy, and all about delivering value.

Yes, sales speakers do get paid-but how much and how often can vary widely. Let's look at the landscape:
Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
- Free Speaking: Common early on. Speakers often do unpaid gigs to build their portfolio, gain exposure, or sell products/services.
- Paid Speaking: Once you've built credibility and demand, you can charge for keynotes, workshops, and panels.
Factors That Influence Pay
- Experience and Reputation: A seasoned speaker with a bestselling book or viral TEDx talk can command higher fees.
- Audience Size and Event Type: Corporate conferences usually pay more than local meetups or webinars.
- Region: Speaking fees in North America and Western Europe tend to be higher than in other regions, though this is changing.
Typical Fee Ranges

Level	Fee Range (USD)
Beginner	$0 - $1,000
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $5,000
Expert	$5,000 - $20,000+

Pros
- Can be a significant revenue stream.
- Builds authority and leads to other opportunities.
Cons
- Inconsistent income if not managed well.
- Travel and prep time can be demanding.
So yes, sales speakers get paid-but the key is building a brand and strategy that makes you worth the fee.

Sales speakers don't just earn from speaking fees. In fact, the most successful ones diversify their income streams. Here's a breakdown:

1. Speaking Engagements
- Keynotes: High-profile talks at conferences or corporate events.
- Workshops: Interactive sessions, often at a higher rate due to the depth of content.

2. Product Sales
- Books: Many speakers write books to establish authority and generate passive income.
- Courses: Online training programs are a scalable way to monetize your expertise.
- Templates and Tools: Sales playbooks, scripts, or CRM templates can be sold as digital products.

3. Consulting and Coaching
- After a talk, companies often want deeper help. Offering consulting packages or executive coaching can be a natural upsell.

4. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
- If you have a platform (podcast, newsletter, YouTube), you can partner with brands for affiliate income or sponsorships.

5. Virtual Events and Summits
- Hosting your own virtual summit (like those on Zoom) allows you to monetize ticket sales, sponsorships, and replays.

6. Licensing Your Content
- Some speakers license their training to companies for internal use. This can be a high-margin, low-effort revenue stream.

The smartest sales speakers treat their speaking career like a business. They build multiple income streams that reinforce each other and reduce reliance on any one source.

Sales speakers' income can range from modest to massive, depending on their experience, niche, and business model. Let's break it down:

Entry-Level Speakers
- These are folks just starting out, often speaking for free or for travel reimbursement.
- Annual income: $0 - $10,000

Mid-Tier Speakers
- They have a few years of experience, a niche, and a solid speaker page (like on Talks.co).
- Typical per-event fee: $1,000 - $5,000
- Annual income: $20,000 - $100,000 (depending on volume and other income streams)

Top-Tier Speakers
- These are the big names: bestselling authors, TEDx speakers, or former sales execs with a strong brand.
- Typical per-event fee: $10,000 - $50,000+
- Annual income: $200,000 - $1M+ (including consulting, courses, etc.)

Variables That Affect Income
- Frequency of Speaking: Some speak once a month, others weekly.
- Geography: Speakers in the US or UK often command higher fees.
- Additional Offers: Courses, books, and consulting can 2x or 3x total income.

Example
A mid-tier speaker doing 2 gigs/month at $3,000 each earns $72,000/year from speaking alone. Add a $500 course that sells 100 units/year, and you're at $122,000.

So while there's no fixed salary, sales speakers who treat it like a business can earn well into six figures-or more.

If you're looking to hire a sales speaker, costs can vary widely based on several factors. Here's a breakdown to help you budget:
1. Speaker Tier and Experience
- Emerging Speakers: $500 - $2,000. These are newer voices with fresh perspectives, often great for startups or niche events.
- Mid-Level Speakers: $2,000 - $10,000. These speakers have a track record, a speaker page (like on Talks.co), and solid audience engagement.
- High-Profile Speakers: $10,000 - $50,000+. Think bestselling authors, former Fortune 500 execs, or viral content creators.
2. Type of Engagement
- Keynote (60 minutes): Typically the highest rate.
- Workshop (2-4 hours): May cost more due to prep and customization.
- Panel or Fireside Chat: Often lower, especially if shared with others.
- Virtual Talks: Usually 30-50% less than in-person.
3. Additional Costs
- Travel and Accommodation: Often billed separately.
- Customization Fee: If you want a tailored talk, expect an extra charge.
- Licensing: If you plan to record and reuse the content, that's another line item.
Sample Budget Table

Speaker Type	In-Person Keynote	Virtual Talk
Emerging	$1,000	$500
Mid-Level	$5,000	$2,500
High-Profile	$20,000+	$10,000+

Hiring a sales speaker isn't just about cost-it's about ROI. A great speaker can energize your team, boost conversions, or attract more attendees to your event.

Here's a list of legendary sales speakers who've shaped the industry over the decades. These are the names that still get quoted in boardrooms and training sessions around the world:

- Zig Ziglar: The godfather of motivational sales speaking. His book 'Secrets of Closing the Sale' is still a must-read.
- Brian Tracy: Known for 'The Psychology of Selling', Tracy has trained millions globally on goal-setting and high-performance sales.
- Tom Hopkins: One of the earliest to systematize sales training. His seminars in the 80s and 90s were groundbreaking.
- Jim Rohn: While more of a personal development speaker, his influence on sales mindset is undeniable.
- Tony Robbins: Though broader in scope, Robbins' impact on sales professionals through mindset and influence strategies is massive.
- Grant Cardone: Love him or hate him, his 10X philosophy has become a sales movement.
- Jeffrey Gitomer: Author of 'The Little Red Book of Selling', Gitomer's no-nonsense style has made him a staple in sales circles.
- Jill Konrath: A pioneer in modern B2B sales, especially known for her work on agile selling and sales acceleration.
- Og Mandino: His book 'The Greatest Salesman in the World' is more parable than playbook, but it's inspired generations.
- Dale Carnegie: Technically more about influence and communication, but his principles are foundational to sales.

These speakers didn't just teach sales-they changed how people think about influence, persuasion, and human behavior.

Looking for today's top sales speakers? These are the global voices making waves right now, from corporate stages to virtual summits:

- Jeb Blount (USA): Author of 'Fanatical Prospecting', Jeb is a go-to expert on pipeline building and sales leadership.
- Victor Antonio (USA): Known for his high-energy delivery and practical frameworks. His YouTube channel is a goldmine.
- Tiffani Bova (USA): Global Growth & Innovation Evangelist at Salesforce. Her insights on customer experience and sales transformation are sought after worldwide.
- Daniel Disney (UK): A leader in social selling, especially on LinkedIn. His talks are popular with tech and SaaS audiences.
- Cynthia Barnes (USA): Founder of the National Association of Women Sales Professionals, she speaks powerfully on diversity and inclusion in sales.
- Benjamin Dennehy (UK): Known as 'The UK's Most Hated Sales Trainer', his contrarian style challenges traditional sales thinking.
- Amy Franko (USA): Focused on B2B sales and leadership, especially in mid-market and enterprise sectors.
- Keenan (USA): Author of 'Gap Selling', Keenan's blunt, high-impact style resonates with modern sales teams.
- Jack Daly (USA): A sales coach and speaker with decades of experience, known for his no-fluff, high-performance approach.
- Colleen Francis (Canada): A global sales strategist who blends data and storytelling to drive results.

These speakers are not only delivering keynotes-they're shaping the future of sales across industries and continents.

Let's get into some of the most common misconceptions people have about sales speakers. Whether you're just starting out or you've been around the block, chances are you've heard at least one of these.

1. Sales speakers are just glorified motivational speakers.
This one pops up a lot. While motivation is part of the package, sales speakers are hired for their strategic insights, real-world experience, and ability to drive revenue-focused outcomes. Take someone like Grant Cardone. Sure, he's high-energy, but his talks are packed with tactical frameworks on closing deals, building pipelines, and scaling teams. That's not just hype - that's strategy.

2. You need to be a natural-born extrovert to succeed.
Not true. Some of the most effective sales speakers are introverts who've mastered storytelling, audience psychology, and delivery. Think of Jill Konrath. Her calm, thoughtful approach resonates deeply with B2B audiences. It's not about being loud - it's about being clear, relevant, and persuasive.

3. Sales speakers only talk to sales teams.
Wrong again. Today's sales speakers are booked by marketing departments, C-suites, even HR teams looking to instill a growth mindset. For example, when a SaaS company wants to align product, marketing, and sales around customer success, they often bring in a sales speaker to bridge the silos.

4. You need a bestselling book to get on stage.
Helpful? Sure. Required? Not at all. Many successful sales speakers build their authority through LinkedIn content, podcasts, or niche webinars. The key is delivering value consistently. If you've got a unique framework or proven results, you can build a speaking career without a book deal.

5. Sales speakers only talk about closing deals.
That's like saying chefs only talk about plating. Modern sales speakers cover everything from prospecting and pipeline management to customer retention and sales enablement. The best ones tailor their content to the audience's maturity level and industry challenges.

So if you've been holding back because of one of these myths, it might be time to rethink what's possible.

When you look at the journeys of top sales speakers, you'll notice they didn't all follow the same path. Some came from corporate boardrooms, others from the startup trenches. But what they share is a deep understanding of sales psychology and the ability to communicate it with clarity and impact.

Take Keenan, author of 'Gap Selling'. Before he was commanding stages, he was in the field, leading sales teams and closing complex B2B deals. His talks are raw, energetic, and unapologetically direct. He doesn't sugarcoat the truth, and that's exactly why companies like Salesforce and LinkedIn bring him in to shake things up.

Then there's Trish Bertuzzi, founder of The Bridge Group. Her focus is on inside sales and sales development. She's not flashy, but her data-driven approach has made her a go-to speaker for SaaS conferences. What sets her apart is her ability to translate analytics into actionable tactics for SDRs and VPs alike.

In a completely different lane, you've got Daniel Pink. While not a traditional sales speaker by trade, his book 'To Sell is Human' reframed how people think about persuasion. His TED Talks and keynotes blend behavioral science with storytelling, making him a favorite for audiences outside the sales bubble too.

And don't overlook regional voices. In Southeast Asia, speakers like Aaron Leow have built reputations by tailoring sales strategies to local markets. His sessions often include real-life case studies from fintech and ecommerce startups, making his insights highly relatable for growing teams.

What these stories show is that there's no one-size-fits-all path. Whether you're a data nerd, a storyteller, or a strategist, there's room for your voice in the sales speaking world.

Sales speakers are adapting to a new kind of audience: digitally savvy, remote-first, and increasingly global. The old playbook of stage-only keynotes is being rewritten in real time. Here's what's coming next:

- Hybrid delivery is the new norm. Companies are booking speakers for both in-person and virtual events. That means sales speakers need to master camera presence, lighting, and engagement tools like polls or breakout rooms. If you can't hold attention on Zoom, you'll struggle to stay booked.

- Micro-content is gaining traction. Instead of hour-long keynotes, many event organizers are requesting 15-minute power talks or modular sessions. This format works well for internal sales kickoffs or ongoing enablement series. Speakers who can break down big ideas into bite-sized, high-impact segments will stand out.

- Localization matters more than ever. As global teams become the norm, companies want speakers who understand regional nuances. A pitch that works in New York might flop in Singapore. Sales speakers who can adapt their messaging for different cultures and industries will have a competitive edge.

- AI and automation are hot topics. Sales teams want to know how to integrate tools like ChatGPT, Gong, or Salesforce Einstein into their workflows. Speakers who can demystify these technologies and show real-world use cases will be in high demand.

- Diversity and inclusion are not optional. Companies are looking for speakers who reflect diverse backgrounds and can speak to inclusive sales practices. That includes gender, ethnicity, neurodiversity, and more. Authenticity is key - tokenism won't cut it.

In short, the future of sales speaking isn't just about being a great presenter. It's about being adaptable, tech-savvy, and globally aware. The speakers who thrive will be those who evolve with their audience.

If you're looking to break into the world of sales speaking or level up your current game, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here's a curated list of platforms, resources, and tools that can help you get booked, build authority, and deliver standout sessions.

1. Talks.co. A podcast guest matching tool that helps you get featured on relevant shows. Great for building your personal brand and getting your message in front of targeted audiences. Pro tip: Use it to test your talk topics and refine your messaging before hitting big stages.

2. Gong.io. While it's a sales enablement tool, Gong is also a goldmine for speakers. Analyze real sales calls to identify trends, language patterns, and objections. Use this data to craft talks that resonate with real-world sales challenges.

3. Notion. Organize your speaking topics, client outreach, event prep, and feedback in one place. Create a content calendar, track leads, and even build a mini CRM for your speaking business.

4. Canva. Design professional slide decks without hiring a designer. Use templates built for webinars, keynotes, or workshops. Bonus: Canva now supports video and animation, which can spice up your virtual presentations.

5. LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn on Creator Mode to showcase your speaking topics, post thought leadership content, and attract inbound speaking requests. Engage with sales communities and tag event organizers to increase visibility.

6. Slidebean. If you're not a fan of designing slides from scratch, Slidebean uses AI to format your content into sleek, professional decks. Ideal for busy speakers who want to focus on content, not formatting.

7. Calendly. Simplify the booking process. Add a link to your speaker page so event organizers can schedule discovery calls or pre-event briefings without the back-and-forth.

These tools won't make you a great speaker overnight, but they'll remove friction and help you focus on what really matters: delivering value. Whether you're pitching your first gig or scaling to international stages, the right stack can give you a serious edge.