How to Write a Winning Event Speaker Submission

Speaking at well-known industry events and receiving awards from credible third parties boosts name recognition and legitimacy. At Songue, we specialize in securing top-tier speaking engagements for our clients. This post aims to provide insight into how we navigate the speaker submission process to maximize success.

Understand the Formal Submission Process

Even with direct contacts in the event production team, formal speaker submissions help streamline the review and selection process. We lobby relentlessly to ensure your submission is seen and considered.

Key Considerations for a Strong Submission

1. Know Your Audience and Topics: Our process always begins with reviewing agendas and speakers to determine which client representative would be the best fit and how they can add to the agenda. Tailoring your submission shows organizers you know their event well.
2. Offer Unique Value: What exclusive insights or data can you provide? Make it clear in your submission. For example, our client Dedrone shared exclusive data on drone activity, including the number of recurrent violations and arrests, in one of their submissions. This approach secured a prominent speaker slot at a top-tier trade event, positioning Dedrone as a thought leader with useful data for attendees and press.
3. Incorporate Customer or End-User Perspectives: Including a customer or industry expert in your session can make your presentation more relatable and credible. For some companies, having a willing customer is essential for an earned (not paid) speaking slot. Very few events want a 30-minute sales pitch. Audiences want to hear from people in their positions whenever possible. 
4. Choose the Right Events: Big events like those from Bloomberg and Fortune are valuable but often require pay-for-play arrangements — which can be a large drain on budgets. Our strategic pitching and careful cultivation of relationships can sometimes earn these panelist spots. For example, we lobbied a food client to earn speaking opportunities at The Economist’s Sustainability Summit and the Aspen Ideas Summit.
5. Capitalize on Trade Shows: Trade shows offer a unique opportunity to gather industry insights, network, and gain media exposure. Reporters and bloggers from key industry publications often cover these events in person, providing golden PR opportunities. Face-to-face conversations go a long way in building vital media relationships. 

Support Beyond Speaker Submissions‍

At Songue, our support doesn’t end with securing speaking slots. We assist with content creation leading up to the event, including company blogs, op-eds, and social media posts. Additionally, we maximize PR opportunities by contacting press attending the show and scheduling valuable face time with journalists.

Let’s Get Started!‍

Interested in boosting your speaker engagement and event PR opportunities? Contact us and let’s discuss how we can help you achieve the recognition you deserve.