The speaking industry is changing, and if you’re a speaker, consultant, or expert, you need to know what’s happening behind the scenes.
We’re seeing a wave of disruption driven by economic shifts, audience demands, and political sensitivities. But here’s the good news: the opportunities are still there. They may just look a little different than they did a little while ago.
Remember. Control what you can.
If you want to stay relevant, get hired, and get paid, here’s what you need to know about the trends shaping the speaking landscape this year. You also need to be optimistic in the crowd. People need what you do. You may have to uplevel your selling skills.
- Flexibility Is Everything
Rising costs, unstable budgets, and venue challenges have made planning meetings challenging. It’s hitting both event organizers and speakers.
What’s Working Now:
- Flexibility. Speakers who can pivot fast have a significant edge.
- Be part of the solution. Ask your meeting professional how you can help in the process.
- DEI Messaging Faces Political Pushback – But It Isn’t Gone
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programming is under pressure in some sectors. Political tensions have led some companies to pause or cut DEI budgets to avoid controversy.
But don’t count DEI out.
Many forward-thinking and global organizations are committed to DEI. The key is repositioning.
Smart Shifts:
- Reframe DEI under broader umbrellas like inclusive leadership, team performance, or cultural intelligence. I wrote about this at length in a previous blog.
- Focus on organizations aligned with these values – and tailor your messaging to match.
- Specialization Is Your Secret Weapon
Being a generalist is no longer enough. Event planners seek speakers with deep, focused expertise who can deliver insights that solve specific problems.
This means:
- Niche topics win. Think less “leadership 101” and more “navigating AI disruption in healthcare.” Use AI to help you come up with descriptions.
- Your brand should scream expertise. A clear, memorable personal brand helps you attract the right clients and command premium fees.
- In-Person Events Are Back (and Better Than Hybrid)
After a few years of hybrid events, many organizers are ditching them in favor of fully in-person experiences. Audiences are craving real connection again, and planners are over the tech headaches.
Speakers, take note:
- You need to bring the energy presence and polish that land.
- It’s time to dust off your stage skills and double down on presentation skills.
Today’s audiences want:
- Tailored insights they can act on now.
- Stories that don’t just entertain but that drive meaningful content.
- Solutions to the real-world challenges they’re facing at work and in life.
Final Takeaway: Adapt and Thrive
The speaking industry in 2025 demands more but will reward those who deliver. Specialize. Stay agile. Focus on content that’s deep, actionable, and relevant to the times. If you do that? You won’t just survive this shift. You’ll become the go-to voice in your space.
Copyright 2025, Lois Creamer, Book More Business. Lois works with professional speakers who want to book more business, make more money, and fully monetize their intellectual property.
Reach me in the following ways:
Lois@BookMoreBusiness.com
314-374-4007
For more information on my business, check out https://www.bookmorebusiness.com.
