[5] Skinner began his career as an evangelist and motivational speaker, drawing upon his personal experiences to connect with diverse audiences, particularly young people.
He was the president of Tom Skinner Associates, a ministry that focused on leadership training, reconciliation, and breaking down social, racial, and generational barriers.
[1][6] Skinner was politically left of center, often criticizing racism and societal "oppression", which caused some controversy when he spoke to largely white evangelical audiences.
[1][14] In attendance at his funeral were notable African-American leaders including Maya Angelou, Louis Farrakhan, Dick Gregory, Les Brown, and Betty Shabazz, along with members of Congress and professional football players.
[3] News accounts after his death noted that he influenced a generation of Black evangelical leaders, including Kay Coles James, William Pannell, Carl Ellis, John M. Perkins, Tony Evans, and Dolphus Weary.