By Zach Nadler, CEO of VaynerSpeakers
One of the most common questions I hear from companies is:
“Who is the biggest name out there right now?”
Relevance isn’t just about fame. Audiences have more discerning tastes than ever before, and a big name alone won’t guarantee attention. Even if they do put butts in seats, their content may fall flat. What matters today is resonance—and the right speaker can be the difference between engagement and indifference.
That’s where we come in. At VaynerSpeakers, we see these shifts every day, and we know what works– and more importantly, WHO works for each unique audience. The smartest companies aren’t chasing trends; they’re choosing voices that connect, inspire, and drive real impact, long after the event ends.
So, how do you find a speaker who actually connects? Start here:
Audiences want more than ideas — they want proof.
The speakers who stand out today are the ones who’ve built something meaningful and can tell you how. They’ve solved real problems, taken risks, and have stories to back it up. When they share their journey, audiences see what’s possible — and leave with tools they can use.
What to look for:
The ability to connect their journey to your audience’s challenges, regardless of industry
Expertise is invaluable — but only if it connects.
The best insiders don’t just know their industry inside and out; they know how to make it understandable to people outside their industry. They simplify complexity, spark curiosity, and leave audiences feeling smarter, not overwhelmed.
What to look for:
Voices that influence the conversation instead of just reacting to it
Relevance today goes beyond knowing your audience — it’s about helping them see the bigger picture.
The strongest brands are intentionally bringing in voices that cross industries, generations, and communities. Cultural connectors make that possible. They bring new perspectives, bridge gaps, and introduce your audience to ideas they didn’t know they needed.
What to look for:
People who bring fresh perspectives, not recycled talking points
Relevance isn’t about being everywhere or chasing “who’s hot right now.” It’s about choosing voices who help your audience think differently, connect deeply, and leave inspired.
Staying relevant isn’t about being louder–It’s about creating lasting impact.
