The Risky Speaker Shortcut

Gail Davis, 26 September 2025

Want to know one of the biggest risks in event planning?

Believing internal speakers are enough.

One of the most important choices you’ll make is whether to rely on a familiar voice from inside the company or bring in an outside speaker.

Here’s why sticking only with internal voices limits impact and how outside speakers can turn good events into unforgettable ones.

CHALLENGE

Most people think: outside speakers won't fit their budget or they won’t “get” the culture.

Others assume employees don’t need outside input since they hear from leadership all the time.

But the truth is: leaning only on internal voices often leads to disengagement, repetitive messaging, and missed opportunities for lasting impact.

TYPICAL METHOD

It’s easy to default to internal speakers. They know the company, and they’re already “on the payroll.” Convenient? Yes. Effective? Not always. Even the most talented internal speakers can struggle to spark fresh thinking.

RECOMMENDATION

Outside speakers do more than “fill a slot.” They deliver:

  • Fresh perspectives that align teams
  • Bridge silos between departments
  • Practical tools your team can put into action immediately

Their job is to create energy in the room, bring credibility through real-world stories, and elevate the event with stage presence that captures attention.

The payoff speaks for itself:

  • An outside speaker is a true investment in your people and your culture
  • Increased participation and engagement during the event
  • Motivated employees who leave with actionable takeaways

ACTION STEPS

Think of outside speakers as partners in your event’s success.

Here’s how to start:

✅ Consult with GDA: Share your goals, concerns, and desired outcomes so we can match you with the right speaker for your audience.

✅ Ask for feedback: We’ve collected extensive feedback from past events that shows how organizations saw measurable results after bringing in outside voices.

✅ Customize the experience: We’ll connect you with speakers who tailor content to your industry and audience, making it relevant, engaging, and fresh.

 

Measure the impact afterward, and you’ll see the payoff in energy, engagement, and long-term value: proof the outside voice was worth every bit of the investment.

The right speaker can transform your event. Let GDA show you how!

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