A man sitting on stage at a tech conference giving a talk
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How to Get a Speaking Gig at an AI Conference

TJ Mapes

Securing a speaking opportunity at an AI conference can significantly boost your professional visibility, establish you as a thought leader, and create valuable networking opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned AI professional or an emerging voice in the field, strategic preparation and persistent effort can help you land that coveted speaking slot. This comprehensive guide walks you through the process of becoming a speaker at AI events of all sizes.

Why Speak at AI Conferences?

Before diving into strategies, let's consider the benefits of presenting at AI conferences:

  • Establish expertise: Demonstrate your knowledge and insights to a targeted audience
  • Build your personal brand: Increase recognition in the AI community
  • Generate leads: Create connections that may lead to collaborations, job opportunities, or clients
  • Access exclusive networking: Speakers often enjoy special access to other presenters and VIPs
  • Improve communication skills: Refine your ability to explain complex AI concepts
  • Receive valuable feedback: Gain insights from audience questions and responses

Understanding Different Speaking Opportunities at AI Events

AI conferences offer various presentation formats, each with different requirements and benefits:

Keynote Presentations

  • Description: High-profile talks that set themes for the entire conference
  • Requirements: Typically requires established reputation or groundbreaking work
  • Strategy: Usually by invitation; focus on relationship-building with conference organizers

Technical Paper Presentations

  • Description: Research-focused talks presenting original findings
  • Requirements: Peer-reviewed paper acceptance; rigorous methodology
  • Strategy: Submit well-crafted papers to relevant academic AI conferences

Panel Discussions

  • Description: Multiple experts discussing a topic with a moderator
  • Requirements: Knowledge of current trends; ability to engage in dialogue
  • Strategy: Highlight unique perspective or experience when applying

Workshop Sessions

  • Description: Interactive, hands-on learning experiences
  • Requirements: Teaching ability; practical knowledge that can be shared
  • Strategy: Propose workshops that address specific skill gaps in the AI community

Lightning Talks

  • Description: Brief (5-10 minute) presentations on specific topics
  • Requirements: Ability to communicate concisely; interesting single concept
  • Strategy: Great entry point for first-time speakers

Poster Presentations

  • Description: Visual presentations with one-on-one discussions
  • Requirements: Research or project to display; strong interpersonal skills
  • Strategy: Often easier to secure than speaking slots; excellent networking opportunity

Step-by-Step Process to Secure AI Conference Speaking Opportunities

1. Build Your Credibility in the AI Field

Before applying to speak, establish yourself as a knowledgeable voice:

  • Create content: Publish blog posts, articles, or videos on AI topics
  • Engage on social media: Participate thoughtfully in AI discussions on LinkedIn, Twitter, and specialized forums
  • Contribute to open-source projects: Demonstrate practical skills through code contributions
  • Speak at smaller venues: Practice at local meetups, company lunch-and-learns, or webinars
  • Publish research: If applicable, submit papers to academic journals or preprint servers like arXiv

2. Research Appropriate AI Conferences

Not all AI events are created equal. Find those that align with your expertise:

  • Match your expertise level: Some conferences cater to beginners, others to advanced researchers
  • Consider your specialization: Look for events focusing on your AI subfield (NLP, computer vision, reinforcement learning, etc.)
  • Check audience composition: Determine if attendees are researchers, practitioners, business leaders, or a mix
  • Review previous speakers: Assess if your background and expertise are comparable
  • Note submission timelines: Create a calendar of AI conference deadlines to avoid missing opportunities

3. Understand the Selection Process

Most AI conferences use one of these speaker selection methods:

  • Call for Papers (CFP): Formal submission of academic research papers
  • Call for Presentations/Speakers: Proposal submission describing your talk content
  • Call for Workshops: Detailed plans for interactive sessions
  • Invitation Only: Direct recruitment by organizers (networking is crucial)
  • Speaker Applications: General submission of qualifications and topic ideas

4. Craft a Compelling Proposal

Your proposal needs to stand out among hundreds or thousands of submissions:

  • Follow instructions precisely: Adhere to word counts, formatting guidelines, and submission systems
  • Address the conference theme: Show relevance to the event's stated focus
  • Propose a catchy, clear title: Balance intrigue with descriptiveness
  • Write a concise, powerful abstract: Highlight the problem, approach, and takeaways
  • Emphasize originality: Clearly state what's new or different about your perspective
  • Include learning objectives: Specify what attendees will gain
  • Highlight practical applications: Show how concepts can be implemented
  • Tailor to the audience: Match technical level to expected attendees

5. Prepare an Outstanding Speaker Bio

Your bio should establish credibility while remaining concise:

  • Highlight relevant expertise: Focus on AI-related accomplishments
  • Mention previous speaking experience: List notable prior presentations
  • Include impressive affiliations: Note connections to respected organizations
  • Add social proof: Mention recognition or awards in the field
  • Keep it current: Update with recent projects and achievements
  • Maintain appropriate length: Typically 150-200 words for most submissions

6. Submit Well Before Deadlines

Timely submission can increase your chances:

  • Create a calendar of AI conference deadlines: Track CFP closing dates
  • Submit early: Some conferences fill slots on a rolling basis
  • Allow time for technical issues: Avoid last-minute submission problems
  • Follow up appropriately: If confirmation isn't received, inquire politely

7. Leverage Your Network

Connections can significantly improve your chances:

  • Seek introductions to organizers: Ask colleagues for connections
  • Participate in organizers' online communities: Engage thoughtfully before applying
  • Request recommendations: Have respected community members endorse you
  • Co-present with established speakers: Partner with someone who has spoken before

8. Consider Alternative Entry Points

If main stage speaking slots are highly competitive:

  • Volunteer as a moderator: Often easier to secure than speaking roles
  • Offer to fill last-minute cancellations: Be ready with a prepared talk
  • Propose a unconference session: Some events have slots for impromptu topics
  • Start with virtual AI events: Often have more speaking opportunities
  • Speak at affiliated workshops: These typically have separate selection processes

9. Prepare Outstanding Presentation Materials

If selected, ensure your materials are exceptional:

  • Create visually appealing slides: Use high-quality graphics and minimal text
  • Prepare demonstrations: Live demos or videos add significant value
  • Develop supplementary materials: Handouts, code repositories, or reference guides
  • Rehearse extensively: Practice timing, transitions, and technical aspects
  • Prepare for questions: Anticipate challenges to your approach or methodology

10. Follow Up After Rejection

Not selected? Use it as a growth opportunity:

  • Request feedback: Ask organizers what would improve your chances
  • Refine your proposal: Address weaknesses for future submissions
  • Stay visible: Continue engaging with the conference community
  • Try again: Persistence often pays off; many successful speakers faced initial rejection

AI Conference Speaker Etiquette and Expectations

If selected, adhere to professional standards:

  • Meet all deadlines: Submit materials when requested
  • Be responsive: Answer organizer questions promptly
  • Promote appropriately: Help market the event without overpromising
  • Arrive prepared: Test equipment early, have backups ready
  • Network generously: Make yourself available to attendees
  • Express gratitude: Thank organizers and supporters

Conclusion: Persistence Pays Off

Securing a speaking opportunity at an AI conference requires persistence, preparation, and strategic networking. While rejection is common, especially at prestigious events, each application improves your skills and visibility. Start with smaller AI events to build experience, refine your message based on feedback, and gradually work your way to larger platforms.

Remember that conference organizers are constantly seeking fresh perspectives and practical insights on artificial intelligence. By following these guidelines and consistently demonstrating value, you'll eventually find yourself sharing the stage with the AI community's most respected voices.

Photo by Matheus Bertelli