In today’s event world, timing isn’t just important - it’s everything. The best keynote speakers book fast, and hesitation often means losing out.

The Reality of Top Speaker Timelines

Elite speakers live in a scarcity economy. They don’t struggle to find opportunities, they choose between them. Most book 6–12 months in advance. Wait too long, and you’re stuck with alternate dates or alternate speakers.

As Michelle Poler puts it: “The biggest regret isn’t taking a risk and failing, it’s not taking the risk at all.”

The Edge of Moving First

Act early, and you don’t just get the right speaker - you often can gain better terms, scheduling flexibility, and their full attention. Wait, and you compete with multiple events, often with less leverage.

Paul Epstein sums it up: “Great opportunities have expiration dates. The winners are those who decide and act while others hesitate.”

Speed With Strategy

Fast doesn’t mean reckless. The best planners build systems for quick, informed decisions:

• Pre-defined speaker criteria and budgets
• Clear approval authority
• Streamlined internal contracting and vendor procurement

Carey Lohrenz notes: “The most dangerous place to be is stuck between two decisions.”

The Cost of Hesitation

Every delay is a window for someone else to act. Waiting often leads to:

• Settling for second-or-third-tier alternatives
• Slowed event planning and added stress
• Premium fees due to scarcity
• Missed opportunities with industry leaders

Momentum Creates Success

Jay Baer says it best: “Speed is the new currency of business.” In speaker booking, decisiveness signals professionalism and intent - qualities top speakers value when choosing between events.

The Imperative: Plan Early, Act Fast

The best events create their moment by:

• Starting searches 6–12 months out
• Building a relationship with a speakers bureau before they’re needed
• Developing rapid response/approval processes
• Trusting the process when the right fit appears

The Winner’s Edge

Speed compounds. Planners known for decisive action attract the best talent, secure stronger partnerships, and build reputations that make future bookings easier.

Contact Us today to: act early, move fast, and secure the speakers who transform events. In this game, hesitation isn’t just caution, it’s often costly.