Every day all around the world professionals and entrepreneurs from every industry do something that many people fear more than death. They take one last sip of water, stand up, walk to the front of a room, and speak up. Some people speak to win new business or to sell an idea. Some speak to share knowledge or transfer skills. While others, simply speak with the goal to uplift and inspire. Regardless, of why they speak, the goals for every speaker is the same – to use the spoken word as a catalyst for some sort of change.Speaking can change your life. People who make the decision to Speak Up tend to experience more control over their career path, unlock new opportunities, and if desired, tap into completely new streams of income. Professional speaking is a billion-dollar industry, and while not every person has a desire to be a full-time professional speaker, the concepts, resources, and strategies presented in this book will position you to carve out your piece of the pie. If you are a current or aspiring professional speaker, consider this book your speaking 101 guide to understanding and navigating the basics of building a speaking business. Wherever you are on your journey, if speaking has been a life-long calling or a newly kindled interest ?Speak Up! The Ultimate Guide to Dominate in the Speaking Industry? is here to serve as your road map to the next level.There are many paths to success in the professional speaking industry. To help speakers cut through the confusion, Black Speakers Network created the 5M Model for Professional Speaking ? which is designed to help speakers develop the most essential knowledge and skills needed to build a profitable speaking business. These include. Mission – Gain clarity and uncover your authentic passion and purpose as a speakerMessage – Learn what type of speaker you are and refine your core presentation skillsMarketing – Develop strategies to reach and engage your target audienceMonetize – Generate multiple streams of revenue for your speaking businessManagement – Create systems and processes to manage and grow your speaking businessReaders of this book will gain access to the expertise and wisdom of 32 remarkable co-authors who are current and emerging thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and expert speakers dedicated to advancing the mission of Black Speakers Network. In addition, you will find contributions from two titans in the speaking industry, Dr. George C. Fraser and Les Brown, who have both invested their lives in educating, empowering, and uplifting men and women particularly from underserved populations.