"EXTRA! EXTRA! Call for speakers opens today!
Submit your abstracts if you want to be considered!"

Call for speakers sounds really easy, doesn't it? You probably see these a lot.

All you have to do is read their event description, submit your abstract… and POOF!

You get hired to speak at an event!

Simple, right?

Well… maybe not.

Today, I want to share a counter-argument to this whole notion of filling out call for speakers. Because, really, these applications end up taking way more time than their worth… with little results to show for it.

Don't believe me? No worries… I've laid out my reasons below.

What's the Big Appeal?

Okay, yes. I admit that filling out a 'short' form to be considered as a speaker feels quick and easy.

Just one of the Calls For Speakers Open as of February 2023

In fact, the event organizer neatly lays out all of the information you'd want:

  • What kind of session they need.
  • A list of learning objectives.
  • Their event's mission.
  • All about their audience.

Sometimes, they'll even tell you how they'll choose their hired speaker!

Then, down in the fine print, they'll mention what you get in return. It's usually a free pass or two to the event, no money… and, well… you'll have a lot of fun. :)

And when you're a speaker with a wide open spot on your calendar… a phone that's not ringing… and time on your hands…

It might feel like a natural step to start filling out these forms.

But, here's the deal…

You need to know a few things before you start filling out these call for speakers.

Warning #1: Don't Expect to Win a Keynote

Sadly, keynotes are very rarely selected from a call for a speaker.

This post is for free and paid subscribers only

Sign up (or Sign In) now to read the post and get access to the full library of posts for free and paid subscribers only.

Sign up now Already have an account? Sign in