Want to Be a Keynote Speaker? Here’s How Conferences Really Work
Ed Darling
4 min read
Travelling from one conference to the next, speaking on panels, giving talks…
Being a keynote speaker is a dream for many ambitious leaders.
The spotlight, the engaged audience, not to mention the lucrative opportunities that come from being there.
But what does it take to become a conference speaker?
I was recently in Berlin, speaking at the Merchant Payment Ecosystem conference (or MPE, for short).
Picture it:
Thousands of attendees, lively panels, bustling stands, and a “who’s-who” of the technology and finance industry meeting to network.
I can’t lie, this corporate speaking stuff is a great gig! You get to spend a few days in a luxurious setting, with food, drinks, awards dinners, and even an after party or two.
But behind the polished presentations and enthusiastic applause lies a mix of preparation, strategy, and surprises.
If you aspire to become a keynote speaker at industry events, here’s an insider’s guide to how it all works – and how you can break into the circuit.
Preparation: The bedrock of a great keynote (with a twist)
Every aspiring keynote speaker faces the same dilemma: Should you memorise your talk word-for-word, get comfortable with the flow, or just wing it?
I’ve always been a firm believer in over-preparing. Practising until your delivery is rock-solid builds confidence and equips you to handle anything – be it a tech glitch or a tricky Q&A.
But here’s something I noticed in Berlin: some speakers arrived with no preparation at all… and still captivated the room!
Their secret?
Years of experience and a genuine passion for their topic. For them, “winging it” wasn’t a risk; it was a showcase of mastery. Panels, podcasts, interviews: they thrived in the unscripted.
The lesson for aspiring keynote speakers? Practise relentlessly when you’re starting out. There’s no substitute for it. But as you grow, you’ll reach a point where your expertise lets you loosen up.
For now, keep honing your craft. The stage rewards the prepared.
The Money Myth: Do keynote speakers always get paid?
Another thing you learn in the corporate speaking world, is the economics of conference speaking.
You’d assume delivering a keynote to over 1,000+ people comes with a hefty fee, wouldn’t you?
Not necessarily.
The truth is more complex, and it’s something every aspiring keynote speaker needs to grasp.
Sometimes, you’re the one paying to be there. Well financed startups or huge corporates might cover the cost of a speaking slot through sponsorship, trading money for exposure. For them, the brand recognition and potential partnerships is where the big money is to be made.
Meanwhile, big-name speakers, industry veterans or well-known experts can demand five or six-figure sums for turning up to give a 30-minute talk.
It all depends on the balance of value. But either way, stepping on stage in front of the right movers and shakers in your industry? It’s always going to be a huge opportunity.
So, how do you navigate this as an aspiring keynote speaker?
It’s all about value. Early on, speaking for free (or even at your own expense) can unlock bigger opportunities. As your reputation grows the tables turn, organisers will seek you out, cheque in hand. Play the long game, and it’ll pay dividends.
Stir the Pot: Why controversy wins audiences
Here’s a truth I’ve seen in action: when your audience is sharp and knowledgeable (as they often are at top conferences), safe talks don’t cut it.
They crave debate, bold opinions, and ideas that challenge their thinking.
Conference organisers know this too – they’re desperate for keynote speakers who can spark a reaction and trigger discussion!
Take a hard look at your content.
Are you bringing fresh perspectives? Are you bold enough to take a stand, even if it ruffles feathers?
A talk titled “10 Tips for Better Productivity” might earn polite applause, but “Why Your Productivity Hacks Are Failing You” might actually get people talking – and sharing.
Controversy isn’t about being reckless; it’s about being fearless with your take. But don’t fall into the trap of being controversial for attention – to do it well, you need to stand by your message, no matter the outcome.
Aspiring keynote speakers should ask: What’s my edge?
Find it, refine it, and use it. That’s how you rise above the noise.
The Hidden Hustle: Networking and visibility
Beyond the stage, speaking at a world-class corporate conference taught me a vital lesson:
Keynote speaking isn’t just about the talk, it’s about being there.
The real magic happens in the corridors, at the coffee stations, and in late-night chats with attendees and organisers.
If you want to become a sought-after keynote speaker, you can’t stay on the sidelines. You have to be in the right rooms, meeting the right people.
Start small – local meetups, regional events, even virtual summits. Get your name out there. Pitch organisers with a compelling topic (bonus points if it fits their conference theme).
Share clips of your talks online to build a portfolio.
Every gig, no matter how modest, is a step toward bigger stages.
Your Next Step: Getting into the arena
My time speaking in Berlin drove home a simple truth: becoming a keynote speaker isn’t about waiting for an invitation.
It’s about putting yourself where the action is.
Whether you’re practising in front of a mirror, filming short videos for LinkedIn & YouTube, pitching your first event, or mingling with organisers, every effort counts.
So, what’s holding you back?
The conference world is brimming with opportunity, and there’s a stage waiting for your voice.
Can we help you get there?
Are you looking to become a keynote speaker or secure your next speaking gig? We’ve helped hundreds of professionals to become a ‘go-to’ authority in their space.
Check out our Training Options, and see what people have to say in our Success Stories page.
About the author: Ed Darling is the Head Coach and Co-Founder of Project Charisma. With a background as a professional actor, speaker, and coach, Ed has spent years helping people master the art of confident communication. His experience across public speaking, leadership, and team training has made him a sought-after expert.
Whenever you're ready, here's 3 ways I can help you:
1. Charisma Club: My flagship 3-month coaching programme for professionals. Follow a proven system to build confidence, find your charisma, and step-up as a speaker in your niche.
2. Speak & Present: Looking for a quick way to supercharge your public speaking skills? Face your fears, develop new skills, and deliver a live speech in our 1-Day Masterclass for professionals.
3. Team Training: Bring confident communication to your team. I’ll help them to speak with clarity, enhance their leadership skills, and present with confidence. Bookable as half/full day training. Ideal for teams and senior leaders.
