The sooner, the better! We work on CMSEO year-round, and the earlier in the year you apply, the better your chances.

Even if your application isn't selected this year, we’ll review it for future events to see if it’s a better fit.

We select our lineup based on direct feedback from our audiences, and industry research. When we’re considering whether someone is a good fit, we ask ourselves:

Sometimes. First-timers can stand out by showing they’re the right fit. Make sure you demonstrate why you're the best choice to speak on your chosen topic—enthusiasm and effort go a long way.

Put effort into your application. A strong, clear pitch with passion and value for the industry will always grab our attention. We want to see that you are passionate and thoughtful about your pitch and that you will bring that same energy to your talk.

Our themes each year are shaped by audience feedback and industry needs. When pitching, focus on what you're passionate about and knowledgeable in. We’re not looking for speakers who’ll cover any topic just to fill a slot—we want experts who bring passion, real-world case studies, data, and experience.

We prefer at least 2-3 topic ideas with a solid overview. It helps us assess your expertise and fit. If you’re selected, we’ll work with you to understand what our audiences are looking for and what will resonate.

Not as much as you might think. We focus on your application first. If your topic and pitch shine, your personal brand will come through naturally. While having a strong network can help, many speakers we choose we’ve never met before. Reach out, show us your value, and make a case for why you’re a great fit.