To motivate others to work harder, feel inspired, or change their attitudes or opinions, a certain type of rhetorical skill is required. In order to persuade his or her audience to take such actions, a motivational speaker employs a variety of persuasive speech techniques. For example, a former CEO may speak to the company’s current sales staff to boost morale, or a reformed drug addict may inspire adolescents to avoid substance abuse. An effective motivational speaker’s ultimate goal is to persuade his or her audience to make some kind of personal or professional change.
David Toma, a former New York City detective, is arguably one of the most well-known motivational speakers in the United States. While working undercover in some of New York City’s most dangerous neighborhoods, Toma saw firsthand the devastating effects of drug abuse. Toma became a motivational speaker after retiring from the police force, traveling to thousands of schools across the country to deliver a passionate speech about the dangers of drug addiction. Hundreds of teenagers would hand over their personal drug supplies to Toma and pledge to live a drug-free lifestyle during these events.
Other motivational speakers, such as financial advisor Suze Orman and life coach Dr. Phil McGraw, deliver motivational speeches to a different type of audience. Orman is known for giving motivational talks to specific groups of people, such as young married couples or single women. Her financial advice is intended to encourage audience members to take greater personal responsibility for their finances.
In a field like professional sports, entertainment, or politics, an effective motivational speaker usually has some level of street cred. His or her status as a subject expert frequently precedes the actual presentation. Having the opportunity to hear a well-known athlete or actor speak in their church or school can be inspiring in and of itself. Some of the most effective motivational speakers use their celebrity status to draw attention to a more serious issue, such as drug abuse or teen pregnancy.
Some motivational speakers follow a set itinerary of speaking engagements, while others are hired as special guests. Professional motivational speakers, such as Dr. Wayne Dyer, author of Your Erroneous Zones and other inspirational books, may supplement their speaking income with book series, motivational DVDs or audio tapes, and television appearances in addition to motivational speaking. Many of the techniques required to become a successful motivational speaker are even taught by some.