When planning your next event, the decision of who to book as a keynote speaker can be daunting. Should you go for an established thought leader with a proven track record, or an emerging voice bringing fresh perspectives? Both options have their advantages, but which one offers the most value to your audience? The answer isn’t straightforward and it depends largely on what you’re aiming to achieve. Let’s look into the key factors that can help you decide.
An established Thought Leader carries a certain weight. They have years of experience and influence behind them. Their expertise is recognised globally, and their past achievements speak volumes. When you book someone like Steven Bartlett or Steve Wozniak, you’re tapping into, credibility, a strong following and content that resonates with a broad audience.
These leaders are trusted sources of insight. They have spoken at numerous events and written bestsellers, giving them the ability to connect with audiences through polished and refined delivery.
Moreover, established influencers come with a certain level of brand recognition. Their name alone draws people in. If your goal is to attract a large audience or build credibility for your event, established leaders might be your best bet.
While established speakers bring a wealth of experience, emerging voices bring innovation. They’re often at the cutting edge of their industry, driving new trends and offering fresh insights.
Emerging thought leaders are nimble, adaptive, and often bring ideas that challenge the status quo. In industries like tech, AI, and digital transformation, these new voices are often the most informed on rapidly evolving topics.
For instance, booking a rising star like Nina Schick can offer a futuristic perspective that established speakers might not yet fully explore. These new voices are also more likely to speak directly to younger audiences, making them relevant for companies looking to tap into fresh, dynamic markets.
In short, if you want to stand out and give your audience a new way to think about their industry, emerging voices could be exactly what you need.
To make an informed decision, consider what your audience values more: credibility or novelty?
1. Trust and Authority
Established speakers come with authority built over time. When they speak, their insights are the result of decades of expertise. This authority is invaluable in industries where stability, tradition, and experience are paramount.
For instance, Adam Grant, an expert in organisational psychology, doesn’t just speak about topics—he has shaped them. His presence guarantees that your event will be backed by authority.
2. New Ideas and Innovation
On the flip side, emerging voices bring fresh, sometimes disruptive, ideas. In fast-changing industries like AI and digital marketing, a new speaker with radical ideas can spark the innovative thinking your audience craves.
Think of Juliet Funt, whose approach to free up productivity in corporate life is both timely and innovative. These speakers can introduce new concepts that may change how your audience thinks about their business models.
3. Audience Engagement
Both types of speakers can engage audiences, but in different ways. Established speakers bring a sense of reliability—they know how to command a room. Their talks are often full of actionable insights grounded in years of expertise.
Emerging speakers, however, tend to be more interactive, sparking curiosity. Their talks often generate lively debates, encouraging your audience to rethink what they know.
The choice between booking an established thought leader or an emerging voice boils down to your event’s goals:
- Are you aiming to reinforce your organisation’s credibility? Go for an established speaker.
- Are you looking to introduce fresh, bold ideas to challenge your audience? Opt for an emerging voice.
If your event demands stability, gravitas, and wisdom, it’s hard to beat the value of an established thought leader. Their talks are often steeped in decades of real-world experience, offering a depth of insight that’s hard to rival.
But if you’re looking to agitate, cause a little controversy, stir the pot, introduce new concepts, or push your industry to think differently, an emerging voice can deliver a talk that is as bold as it is memorable. These rising stars come armed with passion and new frameworks that have the potential to shift mindsets.
Here’s a thought—why not have both?
Pairing an established speaker with an emerging voice can create a balanced program that offers the best of both worlds. The credibility and experience of an established speaker can provide grounding, while the innovation and boldness of a new voice can inspire action.
Imagine opening with someone like Amy Webb, who has years of research backing her predictions on the future of AI, and following with a fresh perspective from someone newer to the industry, like This blend of voices can captivate your audience, ensuring they leave with both inspiration and tangible takeaways.
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Know Your Audience
Do they value expertise and stability? Or are they looking for cutting-edge innovation? - Set Clear Goals
What are the key takeaways you want for your event? Are you aiming to educate, inspire, or challenge conventional thinking? - Assess Your Budget
Established speakers often command higher fees due to their name recognition. Emerging voices, on the other hand, can offer great value for smaller budgets, while still delivering big impact. - Consider Event Diversity
Balance your lineup by including both established and emerging speakers. This ensures you cover both foundational knowledge and new perspectives.
Whichever route you choose, ensuring the right fit between your speaker and your audience is crucial. Thought leaders—whether established or emerging—have the power to shape the way people think, work, and grow. Make the most of that power.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your next event? Contact us today to explore our roster of world-class experts and fresh voices who will deliver exactly what your audience needs.
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