How To Land New Gigs: 3 Surprising Tactics I Used to Land Cool Speaking Gigs
Sonya Barlow and TMILKY on stage at Happiness Camp 2024
How To Land New Gigs: 3 Surprising Tactics I Used to Land Cool Speaking Gigs
"Sometimes, it’s the unplanned steps that lead to the most memorable opportunities."
A few months back, my sister and I posted a random video chatting about ADHD, work, and friendship. To our surprise, it led to an invitation to speak at Happiness Camp in Portugal, where we shared our experiences with thousands. It was a proud sister moment for me—especially since it was her first major conference! Together, we delivered a fireside chat titled "Neurodivergent Women: Millennial vs Gen Z," which turned out to be a highlight for both of us.
Reflecting on this experience, I realised how powerful it can be to create value authentically and consistently. This approach has unlocked some of my most exciting opportunities—and it can work for you too.
Here are three random ways I’ve unlocked doors to exciting speaking gigs:
1. Commenting on a LinkedIn post
Back in 2020, when I started building my brand and business, I spent hours scrolling and engaging. A simple comment on a stranger’s post about diversity and inclusion within the working space led to an unexpected opportunity—delivering a workshop for the L&D department worth £1,500.
2. Writing a newsletter on AI & branding
Last year, I wrote a newsletter article on using AI to build your brand. Right place, right time: I received an immediate reply from a reader, inviting me to host a paid workshop for their members the following week. Why? They appreciated the fun, accessible tone of the article—and AI was already top of mind for them.
Sonya Barlow - Will AI take my job or bring me new opportunities?
3. Posting a YouTube video
One morning over breakfast with my sister, Tanya Barlow we spontaneously decided to film our conversation and post it online. The video went viral with millions of views! This led to an invitation to speak about neurodiversity and intergenerational workforces at a conference in Porto.
Takeaway
Be proactive and respond meaningfully.
Key Piece of Advice
If you’re aiming to land new opportunities, focus on adding value rather than just adding noise. A common thread among all three is that they were designed to inform and educate people with a gap in skill or knowledge, which is what helped me stand out from the crowd. In each instance, I put myself out there in different ways, which ultimately led to something both fun and financially rewarding.
So What?
You never know who’s watching, reading, or consuming your content. Whether it’s a comment, a post, or a casual conversation, each interaction holds potential.
So, what’s stopping you from commenting on that post or sharing your most recent insights? You never know who’s on the other side, waiting to connect.
Sonya Barlow is an award-winning entrepreneur, presenter and author with over 100K followers. She hosts her self-titled YouTube show "The Sonya Barlow Show", authored the business book"Unprepared to Entrepreneur" and runs a business inclusion consultancy and networking app the "LMF Network". You can work with Sonya for campaigns, content and conversation. Connect via email - Hello@SonyaBarlow.Co.Uk.