Want to know how top conferences select speakers through “Call for Speakers”? If you’ve got the energy to light up a stage, the voice to wake up a sleepy crowd, and the confidence to own the room, then you’re already halfway there. If your presence makes people put down their phones and actually listen, that’s your sign. You don’t need to be famous. You just need that spark and maybe a mic that doesn’t squeak in the middle of your talk.
Now it’s time to go big. Conferences like TechCrunch Disrupt? Yes, they select speakers too. Imagine your name on their speaker list. Sounds cool, right? That’s where ConferNinja comes in. It helps you discover conferences around you that are looking for speakers. No more searching random websites and ending up on events that happened three years ago. Sign up to ConferNinja now, unless you enjoy applying to past events and wondering why no one replies.
Quick Links
- How Top Conferences Select Speakers in 2025
- What Do Conferences Look For in a Speaker?
- How to Stand Out in the Speaker Selection Process
- How to Write a Strong Conference Proposal
- Surviving the Selection Process
- Quick Tips to Get Selected as a Speaker
- Top Conferences With Open Speaker Calls 2025
What Do Conferences Look For in a Speaker?
Conferences always select speakers who bring something fresh to the table. They don’t just want someone who knows the topic, they want someone who can wake up a zoned-out audience, make them laugh, nod, think, and even tweet about your talk halfway through it. Why do they care so much about this? Because the more attention you grab on stage, the more attention the event gets, and that means more eyes on the brand behind the event. That’s a win for everyone.
They also love speakers who speak from real-life experiences. Do you have a story worth sharing? How much experience do you bring? What kind of energy do you blast onto the stage? Can you make complex things sound simple? That’s a true skill. Can someone from any age group, even your aunt or your cousin, understand what you’re saying? If yes, you’re Golden. And hey, if you’ve got a bit of humor or storytelling in your style, that’s a bonus. Everyone loves a good laugh or a powerful story, even at a tech event.
How to Stand Out in the Speaker Selection Process
For top Conferences like TechCrunch Disrupt, CES, Web Summit, and others, the selection process usually looks like this:
- Call for speakers opens online:
Keep an eye on trusted platforms like ConferNinja so you never miss the opening. Be ready with fresh ideas before the call starts. - Submit your topic and summary:
Write a clear, catchy title and a summary that explains why your talk matters. Use simple language and highlight what makes your talk unique. - Review panel checks your pitch:
Remember, reviewers see hundreds of pitches. Make yours easy to read and interesting, add real stories or examples to catch their attention. - Shortlist based on relevance:
Show how your topic fits the conference theme and audience. Explain the value people will get from your talk. - Final invite sent via email:
Respond quickly and professionally when you get an invite. Confirm all details and be prepared to share any extra info they ask.
How to Write a Strong Conference Proposal
If you want to actually land a speaking spot, your proposal needs to do more than just explain your topic, it has to sell it.
Here’s how to craft one that stands out:
- Pick a Sharp Topic & Title
Align with the event’s theme and give it a fresh angle. Make the title clear, specific, and attention-grabbing. - Craft a Simple Abstract
Explain what your talk is about and why it matters now. Avoid jargon and keep it reader-friendly. - Match the Event’s Tone
Formal, fun, or cutting-edge? Reflect the event’s vibe in your proposal’s language. - Highlight Audience Takeaway
State what attendees will gain to learn a framework, insight, or new perspective. - Make It Easy to Read
Use short lines and formatting. Help reviewers skim and still get the point. - Add Social Proof
Mention past talks, workshops, or published work. It builds credibility fast. - Show Timeliness
Tie your topic to current trends or issues to show it’s relevant today. - Include a Unique Hook
Open with a question, stat, or bold claim to spark curiosity. - Keep It Concise
Avoid fluff. A tight, focused pitch shows clarity and confidence.
Surviving the Selection Process
- Research Before You Apply
Look at past speakers and topics to align your proposal with what the event prefers. This helps you pitch something that truly fits the audience. - Craft a Strong Submission
Keep your title catchy and your summary clear. Focus on what the audience will learn and why it matters now. - Stay Patient, Stay Ready
Review panels can take time to respond. Be patient, but keep your phone and inbox in check for quick replies. - Confirm Your Slot Promptly
If selected, reply as soon as possible. It shows you’re serious and helps organizers plan better. - Use Feedback to Improve
If you receive suggestions or edits, take them seriously. It can help you sharpen your message for future events too. - Practice Before the Big Day
Rehearse your talk several times for clarity and timing. Confidence comes from preparation, not just talent.
Quick Tips to Get Selected as a Speaker
- Use ConferNinja
Use trusted platforms like ConferNinja to find up-to-date calls. This saves time and keeps you from missing important deadlines. - Choose a Fresh Topic
Focus on subjects that are trending or unique to the event’s focus. This increases your chances of catching the reviewers’ interest. - Write a Clear Summary
Your summary should quickly explain what your talk is about and why it matters. Keep it engaging and easy to understand. - Following Submission Rules
Read all instructions and fill every section thoroughly. Ignoring guidelines can lead to automatic disqualification. - Double-Check Details
Typos or missing details can cost you the opportunity. Proofread your submission or have someone else review it. - Apply Early
Early applications often receive more attention from organizers. Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your proposal.2 - Respond Properly
Prompt communication shows professionalism and commitment. Responding quickly can secure your spot faster.
Top Conferences With Open Speaker Calls 2025
If you’re aiming to speak at a major tech or startup conference this year, now’s the time to apply. Here are some notable events with open calls for speakers
- TechCrunch Disrupt (San Francisco, CA)
Deadline: Around May 15, 2025
Event: Late October 2025 - SXSW (South by Southwest) (Austin, TX)
Deadline: Around July 31, 2025
Event: March 2026 - Open Source Summit North America (Various US cities)
Deadline: Around February 15, 2025
Event: June 2025 - DeveloperWeek (San Francisco, CA)
Deadline: Around April 30, 2025
Event: February 2026 - The Strange Loop (St. Louis, MO)
Deadline: Around March 15, 2025
Event: September 2025 - GOTO Conference USA (Various cities)
Deadline: Around May 1, 2025
Event: Fall 2025
Conclusion
Getting selected as a speaker at a top conference in 2025 is about being real, relevant, and ready. Organizers look for people who can not only deliver value but also connect with the audience in a memorable way. With tools like ConferNinja at your side, the process of finding speaking opportunities becomes much easier. So, if you’ve got a story to tell, a message that matters, and the spark to share it now is your time. Prepare well, pitch smart, and step onto that stage with confidence.
Always remember Conferences Select Speakers who would bring value to the event.
Your Turn
Have you ever applied to speak at a conference? Were you selected, or are you still waiting to hear back? Maybe you’ve faced rejections and learned something valuable along the way. Share your experience in the comments below, your journey might just inspire someone else to finally hit “submit” on their first speaker proposal!