Every paid speaking opportunity has hidden potential if you know how to tap into it.

Too many speakers see a gig as a one-time win: you show up, deliver, take your applause, and move on to chasing the next booking. But the truth is, your best future stages are often connected to the one you’re already standing on.

As a Speaker Support Concierge, I’ve helped speakers stretch one event into five more by focusing on one key principle: relationships create repeat business.

Let’s talk about how to make that happen.

1. Follow-Up Is Where the Real Work Begins

The applause fades fast. What sticks in an event planner’s mind is how easy and enjoyable you were to work with.

A quick thank-you email, a short note about how much you enjoyed the audience, or even a recap with a few highlight photos goes a long way.

Don’t overthink it. The goal is simply to remind them:

“I’m professional, thoughtful, and easy to bring back.”

SEO tip: use search terms like how to follow up after a speaking gig or how to get repeat speaking invitations to find examples of great follow-up language you can adapt.

2. Ask for Feedback and Testimonials

Most speakers never do this and that’s a missed opportunity.

After the event, ask the planner or host:

• What stood out most about my presentation?

• Would you mind if I used your feedback as a testimonial?

Their words become social proof you can use in your marketing materials, speaker one-sheet, or eSpeakers profile. Testimonials build credibility and credibility builds demand.

3. Send a Thoughtful Thank-You Gift

A handwritten note or a small, meaningful gift (not something flashy) can make an unforgettable impression.

Event planners manage dozens of speakers each year. The one who shows gratitude stands out.
It’s not about cost, it’s about care.

That small act often turns a single engagement into an open invitation for future events.

4. Stay Connected (Without Hovering)

Add the planner to your newsletter list. Comment on their event updates on LinkedIn. Send a holiday card or quick note on their next big conference.

The key is consistency without crowding. You want to stay on their radar naturally, not force it.

Planners notice speakers who stay in touch in genuine, low-pressure ways.

5. Build a System Around It

Turning one gig into five more doesn’t happen by chance. It’s a system.

Here’s a simple workflow I create for my clients:

1. Immediately after the event: thank-you email and photos.
2. Within one week: testimonial or feedback request.
3. Within one month: gentle check-in with value (article, podcast, etc.).
4. Quarterly: stay in touch via newsletter or social update.

Do this consistently, and you’ll never have to wonder where your next speaking opportunity is coming from.

The Bottom Line

Visibility opens doors, but relationships keep them open.

When you treat every event like the start of a partnership not just a performance, you build a reputation that pays dividends for years.

And if the follow-up, thank-yous, and planner communication feel like too many moving parts, that’s exactly where I come in.

At The Northcutt Speaking Agency, I help speakers manage the behind-the-scenes details so they can focus on the stage while their calendar fills itself.

👉 Explore how speaker support can grow your business.