I've got the speaking topic - all I need is an audience

You're a subject matter expert and you want to get out on the speaking circuit. Don't look to your local chamber of commerce for your opportunities. Do the research and locate the audience(s) that will be interested in what you've got to say.

If you're an expert in the mating rituals of the purple spotted tse-tse fly, you won't likely draw a standing room crowd to your speech at the local bookstore. You've got to go out and find your tse-tse fly enthusiasts. Where and how often do they congregate? Get in on their conversation, and get on a plane if you have to.

As a business expert, you can most easily become a "guru" if you are highly specialized. But like the tse-tse fly expert, you've got to find your audience. The American Society of Association Executives is a great place to start. Yes, this is an association of associations. You can access the site and search for associations by vertical market or business discipline. Do the research. When you've found a group that aligns with your expertise, check out their list of conferences and events. Get in on their conversation.