Women Speakers

A women in business speaker is a professional who shares insights, experiences, and strategies related to business, leadership, and entrepreneurship - all from the perspective of a woman navigating the business world. These speakers may come from diverse industries like tech, finance, media, or social enterprise, but they all bring a unique lens shaped by their lived experiences.

What sets them apart isn't just their expertise - it's the context they bring. Whether they're talking about breaking into male-dominated industries, building inclusive teams, or scaling a business while balancing societal expectations, their voice adds depth to conversations that are often one-dimensional.

Women in business speakers are often featured at conferences, corporate events, podcasts, and virtual summits. They might deliver keynote speeches, lead workshops, or participate in panels. Some are CEOs or founders, like Reshma Saujani of Girls Who Code. Others are thought leaders, authors, or coaches who specialize in topics like negotiation, leadership, or equity in the workplace.

Their role is not just to inform, but to challenge assumptions and expand perspectives. Whether they're speaking to a room of executives or a Zoom full of solopreneurs, they help audiences see what's possible - and how to get there.

In short, a women in business speaker is someone who doesn't just talk about business - she redefines what success looks like, who gets to lead, and how we build better systems for everyone.

When you consider the makeup of most business panels or leadership events, one thing becomes clear: representation still has a long way to go. That's where women in business speakers come in - not as a checkbox, but as a catalyst for broader conversations and better outcomes.

First, they bring perspectives that are often missing from mainstream business discourse. Whether it's navigating bias in hiring, advocating for parental leave policies, or building inclusive company cultures, women in business speakers highlight issues that affect half the workforce - and often go unaddressed.

Second, they serve as visible role models. For younger professionals, seeing someone who looks like them on stage or on a podcast can be game-changing. It's not just about inspiration - it's about normalization. When women see other women leading, speaking, and succeeding, it shifts what they believe is possible.

Third, these speakers often challenge the status quo in ways that lead to innovation. They ask different questions, prioritize different metrics, and bring emotional intelligence into spaces that have historically valued only hard data. That blend of insight and empathy can spark real change.

Finally, including women in business speakers helps events and organizations stay relevant. Audiences today are more diverse and more values-driven than ever. They want to hear from voices that reflect the real world - not just the boardroom. And when you bring in speakers who reflect that diversity, your content becomes more engaging, more authentic, and more impactful.

Women in business speakers wear many professional hats - but their core mission is to share knowledge, inspire action, and shift perspectives within the business landscape.

Here's a breakdown of what they typically do:

- Deliver Keynotes and Talks. They speak at conferences, summits, webinars, and corporate events, covering topics like leadership, entrepreneurship, diversity, innovation, and personal development.

- Educate and Train. Many lead workshops or training sessions on skills like negotiation, public speaking, team building, or navigating bias in the workplace.

- Consult and Advise. Some offer strategic consulting to companies looking to improve gender equity, leadership pipelines, or inclusive hiring practices.

- Mentor and Coach. Whether through formal programs or informal networks, many women in business speakers support the next generation of leaders by sharing lessons learned and offering guidance.

- Create Content and Thought Leadership. They often write books, host podcasts, publish articles, or appear in media to amplify their message and reach wider audiences.

- Advocate for Change. Beyond business, many use their platform to push for systemic change - from equal pay to better parental leave policies to more inclusive startup funding.

In essence, women in business speakers are educators, motivators, and changemakers. They don't just speak - they lead conversations that matter, across industries and around the world.

Ready to step onto the stage and share your story as a women in business speaker? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started and build momentum.

1. Define Your Niche and Message.
- What unique perspective do you bring? Are you a founder, investor, executive, or consultant? Maybe you're all of the above.
- Focus on a core message: leadership, scaling a business, breaking barriers, or funding strategies for women-led startups.
- Tip: Use Talks.co to explore what other speakers are covering and identify gaps you can fill.

2. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Create a compelling speaker profile on platforms like Talks.co or your personal website.
- Include a professional headshot, a short bio, your signature topics, and a highlight reel if you have one.
- Example: Look at how speakers like Lisa Nichols or Reshma Saujani structure their pages-clear, confident, and value-driven.

3. Start Speaking-Anywhere.
- Begin with local events, podcasts, webinars, or virtual summits. Don't wait for a TEDx invite.
- Reach out to event organizers directly or use platforms like Talks.co to connect with hosts looking for guests.
- Tip: Record every talk. Even a 5-minute clip can help you land your next gig.

4. Collect Testimonials and Feedback.
- After each talk, ask organizers and attendees for feedback or a short testimonial.
- These build credibility and can be added to your speaker page.

5. Pitch Yourself Strategically.
- Create a one-sheet with your bio, topics, past speaking engagements, and contact info.
- Reach out to conferences, corporate events, and media outlets that align with your message.
- Bonus: Use LinkedIn to connect with event planners and decision-makers.

6. Join Speaker Communities.
- Get involved in networks like Women Speakers Association or Talks.co's speaker community.
- Collaboration leads to referrals, partnerships, and more stage time.

Becoming a women in business speaker is about positioning, persistence, and showing up consistently. Start small, stay focused, and let your voice grow louder with every stage you step on.

Being a women in business speaker isn't just about having a mic and a message. It's about credibility, clarity, and connection. Here's what you really need to get started and stand out.

First, you need a compelling story or expertise. Whether you're a startup founder who bootstrapped to 7 figures, a corporate leader who broke the glass ceiling, or a strategist helping women scale their ventures, your experience should offer value to your audience. It's not about being perfect-it's about being real and relevant.

Second, you need a platform. That means having a speaker page (like the ones on Talks.co) where event organizers can learn about you. Include your bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and a few video clips. This is your digital handshake-it should be polished and persuasive.

Third, you need presentation skills. You don't have to be a TED-level performer, but you do need to communicate clearly, engage your audience, and deliver takeaways. Practice in front of peers, join a Toastmasters group, or work with a speaking coach if needed.

Fourth, you need visibility. Get active on LinkedIn, share thought leadership content, and engage with communities that align with your niche. The more visible you are, the more likely you'll be invited to speak.

Lastly, you need a network. Speaking is often about who knows you. Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with hosts and other speakers. Attend events, virtual or in-person, and don't be shy about pitching yourself when the fit is right.

In short, to be a women in business speaker, you need a mix of experience, presence, and proactive outreach. It's a blend of personal brand and professional value that opens doors to the stage.

Yes, many women in business speakers do get paid-but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's break it down.

First, the speaking industry is tiered. At the top, high-profile speakers like Arianna Huffington or Sallie Krawcheck can command $25,000 to $100,000+ per keynote. Mid-tier speakers with a strong niche and following might earn $2,000 to $10,000 per talk. Emerging speakers often start unpaid or with honorariums ranging from $250 to $1,000.

Factors that influence whether a speaker gets paid:
- Experience and Reputation. The more proven your track record, the more likely you'll be compensated.
- Event Type. Corporate events and industry conferences usually have budgets. Nonprofits and community events may not.
- Audience Size and Reach. If you're speaking to 10,000 people or being streamed globally, there's more value-and budget.
- Topic Relevance. Hot topics like diversity in leadership, women in tech, or inclusive entrepreneurship often attract higher fees.

Pros of paid speaking:
- Income diversification.
- Credibility boost.
- Justifies time and travel.

Cons:
- Competitive market.
- Some events only offer exposure.
- You may need to prove ROI to get paid.

Platforms like Talks.co can help speakers connect with paid opportunities by showcasing their expertise and matching them with hosts who value their voice. So yes, women in business speakers do get paid-but it takes positioning, persistence, and proof of value.

Women in business speakers generate income through multiple streams, often combining speaking fees with other business ventures. Here's how the revenue model typically breaks down:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Keynotes, panels, workshops, and breakout sessions at conferences, corporate retreats, and summits.
- Rates vary widely (see 'How much do women in business speakers make') but can be a significant income source.

2. Virtual Events and Webinars
- Hosting or participating in online events, often monetized through ticket sales, sponsorships, or affiliate partnerships.
- Platforms like Talks.co help speakers connect with virtual event hosts and build visibility.

3. Books and Thought Leadership
- Many speakers publish books that complement their talks. These serve as both revenue and credibility boosters.
- Example: Sophia Amoruso's 'Girlboss' or Rachel Rodgers' 'We Should All Be Millionaires'.

4. Consulting and Coaching
- Speaking often leads to consulting gigs or private coaching clients. A talk can be a funnel into higher-ticket services.
- This is especially common in industries like finance, marketing, or leadership development.

5. Courses and Digital Products
- Online courses, memberships, or digital downloads allow speakers to monetize their expertise at scale.
- Example: A speaker on women-led startups might sell a course on pitching to investors.

6. Sponsorships and Brand Partnerships
- Influential speakers may be approached by brands for collaborations, especially if they have a strong social media presence.

In short, women in business speakers often treat speaking as part of a broader ecosystem. It's not just about the mic-it's about the message, the audience, and the monetization strategy behind it.

Earnings for women in business speakers vary dramatically depending on experience, audience, and business model. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect at different stages:

Speaker Level	Typical Fee Range	Notes
Emerging	$0 - $1,000	Often unpaid or honorariums. Great for exposure and practice.
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $5,000	Speaking regularly at niche events or corporate trainings.
Established	$5,000 - $15,000	Recognized experts with media presence or published books.
High-Profile	$15,000 - $100,000+	Celebrity entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, or global influencers.

Additional income can come from:
- Workshops: $2,000 to $10,000 depending on customization and duration.
- Virtual Keynotes: Often 30-50% of in-person rates.
- Panel Appearances: Typically lower, but can lead to consulting gigs.
Factors that influence earnings:
- Industry (tech and finance tend to pay more).
- Location (North America and Europe offer higher rates).
- Audience size and prestige of the event.
Many speakers also monetize through backend offers like coaching, consulting, or courses, which can significantly boost total income. So while the speaking fee is one metric, the full earning potential often extends far beyond the stage.

If you're looking to hire a women in business speaker, the cost can vary widely based on several key factors. Here's what you need to know:

Typical Cost Ranges
- Local or Emerging Speakers: $500 - $2,000. Ideal for community events, workshops, or internal company sessions.
- Mid-Tier Professionals: $2,000 - $7,500. These speakers often have a strong niche, some media presence, and a solid track record.
- High-Profile Experts: $7,500 - $25,000+. Includes authors, CEOs, or influencers with national or global recognition.
- Celebrity Entrepreneurs: $25,000 - $100,000+. Think Arianna Huffington, Barbara Corcoran, or Sara Blakely.

Factors That Affect Cost
- Event Type: Corporate conferences usually have larger budgets than nonprofits or educational events.
- Format: Keynotes cost more than panels or fireside chats. Virtual events are often more affordable.
- Customization: A tailored workshop or training session may increase the fee.
- Travel and Logistics: In-person events may require covering travel, lodging, and per diem.

Cost-Saving Tips
- Consider virtual formats to reduce expenses.
- Book early-last-minute bookings often cost more.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find speakers within your budget and streamline the booking process.

Hiring a women in business speaker is an investment in inspiration, education, and impact. The right speaker can energize your audience and elevate your event's credibility.

Oprah Winfrey. Media mogul turned business powerhouse, Oprah's talks on leadership, resilience, and purpose have inspired millions.

Indra Nooyi. Former PepsiCo CEO, Nooyi is known for her insights on corporate leadership, global strategy, and women in executive roles.

Sheryl Sandberg. Facebook's former COO and author of 'Lean In', Sandberg has become a global voice for women in leadership.

Barbara Corcoran. Real estate mogul and Shark Tank investor, Corcoran delivers engaging talks on entrepreneurship and grit.

Arianna Huffington. Founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, she speaks on wellness, productivity, and redefining success.

Melinda French Gates. Co-chair of the Gates Foundation, Melinda brings a philanthropic and global development lens to business leadership.

Sara Blakely. Founder of Spanx, Blakely's story of bootstrapping a billion-dollar brand resonates with entrepreneurs everywhere.

Whitney Wolfe Herd. CEO of Bumble, she's a tech entrepreneur who speaks on innovation, leadership, and creating inclusive platforms.

Reshma Saujani. Founder of Girls Who Code, Reshma is known for her advocacy and talks on closing the gender gap in tech.

Lisa Nichols. Motivational speaker and CEO of Motivating the Masses, Nichols combines personal transformation with business strategy.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Nigeria). Director-General of the WTO and former finance minister, she speaks on global economics and women in leadership.

Cher Wang (Taiwan). Co-founder of HTC, Wang is a tech pioneer and frequent speaker on innovation and entrepreneurship in Asia.

Jessica Alba (USA). Founder of The Honest Company, Alba blends celebrity with business savvy in talks on branding and sustainability.

Verna Myers (USA). VP of Inclusion Strategy at Netflix, Myers is a powerful voice on equity, leadership, and corporate culture.

Claudia Goldin (USA). Nobel Prize-winning economist, Goldin offers deep insights into gender gaps in the labor market and business.

Lubna Olayan (Saudi Arabia). One of the most influential businesswomen in the Middle East, Olayan speaks on finance, governance, and women's empowerment.

Anne-Marie Imafidon (UK). Founder of Stemettes, she's a leading voice in STEM education and tech entrepreneurship for women.

Randi Zuckerberg (USA). Former Facebook exec and founder of Zuckerberg Media, she speaks on digital innovation and women in tech.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (India). Biocon founder and biotech leader, Shaw is a global speaker on entrepreneurship and healthcare innovation.

Helena Morrissey (UK). Founder of the 30% Club, Morrissey advocates for gender balance in boardrooms and speaks on finance and leadership.

Let's talk about some of the most persistent misconceptions that tend to follow women in business speakers. These myths don't just misrepresent reality-they actively hold people back from stepping onto the stage or inviting the right voices into the room.

- Myth 1: Women in business speakers only talk about 'women's issues'.
This one comes up a lot. The assumption is that if a woman is speaking, she must be covering topics like work-life balance or gender equity. While those are valid and important, many women in business speakers are subject-matter experts in areas like fintech, AI, global logistics, or sales strategy. For example, Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code, speaks on innovation and leadership in tech-not just gender diversity.

- Myth 2: They don't have the same authority as male speakers.
This bias often shows up subtly, like when event organizers hesitate to book women for keynote slots. But authority comes from experience, insight, and delivery-not gender. Just look at Carla Harris, Vice Chairman at Morgan Stanley. Her talks on leadership and decision-making are packed with strategic depth and delivered with commanding presence.

- Myth 3: There aren't enough qualified women in business to speak.
This is more of a visibility issue than a talent shortage. Platforms like Talks.co are helping to surface incredible women leaders from across industries. From small business owners in rural Canada to tech founders in Nairobi, the talent pool is global and growing.

- Myth 4: Women speakers are less engaging or dynamic.
Engagement is about storytelling, clarity, and connection. Speakers like Bozoma Saint John or Indra Nooyi consistently deliver talks that are not just informative but unforgettable. The idea that women are less compelling on stage is outdated and unsupported by audience feedback or speaker ratings.

- Myth 5: They only speak at women-focused events.
While women-focused events are important spaces, many women in business speakers headline at major conferences like Web Summit, SXSW, and Davos. Their insights are relevant to everyone in business-not just women.

When Whitney Wolfe Herd, founder of Bumble, took the stage at Fortune's Most Powerful Women Summit, she didn't just talk about dating apps. She unpacked the business model, the investor landscape, and the challenges of scaling a tech company while facing public scrutiny. Her talk wasn't just inspiring-it was tactical. And that's what made it stand out.

Then there's Lisa Su, CEO of AMD. Not someone you'd typically associate with the speaking circuit, but her keynote at CES 2021 was a masterclass in technical storytelling. She broke down complex semiconductor trends in a way that was accessible and compelling. Her presence on stage challenged the stereotype that tech talks need to be delivered by men in hoodies.

In Australia, Naomi Simson, founder of RedBalloon and a Shark Tank investor, has become a go-to speaker for entrepreneurship and customer experience. Her talks blend personal anecdotes with hard data, making them resonate with both startup founders and corporate execs.

And let's not forget about Ibukun Awosika, former Chair of First Bank of Nigeria. Her talks on ethical leadership and business integrity have reached audiences across Africa and Europe. She often speaks at both business summits and youth forums, bridging generational and cultural gaps with ease.

These women didn't just land speaking gigs because of their titles. They earned their place on stage by delivering value, insight, and authenticity. Their success shows that women in business speakers are not a niche-they're a necessity.

The landscape for women in business speakers is shifting, and not just in terms of who gets booked. It's about how, where, and why these voices are being amplified. Here's what's on the horizon:

- Hybrid events are the new normal. With virtual summits and hybrid conferences becoming standard, women in business speakers are reaching global audiences without the travel barrier. This opens doors for speakers from underrepresented regions or those balancing caregiving responsibilities.

- Demand for niche expertise is rising. Organizers are looking beyond general leadership talks. They want deep dives into areas like blockchain regulation, circular economy models, or neurodiverse hiring practices. Women with specialized knowledge are stepping into these roles more than ever.

- Authenticity over polish. Audiences are gravitating toward speakers who are real, not rehearsed. Vulnerability, lived experience, and unscripted moments are being valued over slick slides and corporate jargon. This trend favors speakers who bring both insight and humanity.

- Intersectional representation is gaining traction. More events are prioritizing diversity not just in gender, but in race, age, ability, and geography. Expect to see more Indigenous entrepreneurs, Black women tech founders, and Gen Z startup leaders on stage.

- AI is reshaping speaker discovery. Platforms like Talks.co and others are using algorithms to match speakers with podcasts and events. This means lesser-known but highly qualified women in business speakers are getting discovered faster.

In short, the future isn't just about more women on stage. It's about more diverse, dynamic, and data-driven women leading conversations that matter.

- Talks.co. A smart platform that matches speakers with podcast hosts and event organizers. Great for building your portfolio and getting discovered if you're just starting out.

- SpeakerHub. A global directory where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and get found by event planners. Bonus: they offer free resources on crafting your speaker bio and pitch.

- LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn this on to showcase your speaking topics, feature videos, and attract inbound interest. Use it to post clips from past talks or share insights that position you as a thought leader.

- TEDx Events Directory. TEDx events are independently organized and often looking for fresh, local voices. Apply to speak at one in your region to build credibility and reach.

- Canva. Not just for social media graphics. Use it to design slide decks that are clean, professional, and on-brand. Their templates make it easy to stay visually consistent.

- Toastmasters International. A classic for a reason. If you're new to public speaking or want to refine your delivery, Toastmasters clubs offer a supportive environment to practice and get feedback.

- SheSays. A global network for creative women with mentorship programs and speaking opportunities. Especially useful if you're in marketing, design, or media.

- Eventbrite. Not just for finding events to attend-use it to research conferences in your niche and reach out to organizers with a tailored pitch.

Each of these tools serves a different purpose: discovery, practice, branding, or networking. Use a mix depending on where you are in your speaking journey. And remember, visibility is cumulative. The more you show up, the more doors open.