LinkedIn has evolved from a professional networking platform into a stage where individuals can craft and showcase their personal brands. Amid this evolution, one title has risen to prominence: “Keynote Speaker.” Once reserved for seasoned experts who commanded the stage at industry-defining conferences, the label is now ubiquitous. 

While self-promotion is a natural and often necessary part of professional growth, the overuse of this designation risks creating the perception that some individuals are more focused on gaining visibility than on building the expertise that justifies it.

The Allure of the Spotlight

It’s easy to understand why so many aspire to the “keynote speaker” badge. Public speaking, particularly at marquee events, confers prestige. It suggests not only expertise but also influence—qualities that are highly valued in the professional world. Furthermore, platforms like TEDx and local leadership summits have democratized opportunities to speak on a stage, making it easier than ever to step into the spotlight. For many, the title of “keynote speaker” is a shortcut to credibility, offering a perception of authority without the years of deep work or research that traditionally defined expertise.

This is not to say that all self-described keynote speakers are lacking in substance. Many are thought leaders with a proven track record in their fields, offering compelling insights that inspire and educate their audiences. The problem arises when individuals adopt the label without the foundational knowledge or experience to back it up, diluting its significance.

The Pitfall of Shallow Credentials

The primary issue with the proliferation of self-described keynote speakers is that it often signals a prioritization of optics over expertise. LinkedIn users scrolling through profiles may encounter individuals who have given a single talk at a local event—or worse, who have spoken at their own self-organized sessions—yet prominently feature “keynote speaker” in their headlines. While the title is technically accurate, it can come off as inflated and self-serving.

This trend contributes to a broader erosion of trust. Audiences and employers may start to question the legitimacy of anyone claiming the title, even those who have earned it through genuine achievement. Furthermore, shallow self-promotion can backfire, as those seeking true expertise may view such profiles as inauthentic or opportunistic.

Expertise vs. Exposure

The rise of the “keynote speaker” trend reflects a broader cultural shift in how success is defined. In the age of personal branding, exposure often takes precedence over expertise. The focus on visibility—being seen and heard—can overshadow the value of substantive contributions.

For example, a professional who has written extensively, conducted groundbreaking research, or led impactful projects may forgo public speaking altogether. Meanwhile, someone with minimal experience but a knack for self-promotion may find themselves invited to speak on a panel or deliver a talk. The latter’s ability to craft a compelling narrative and market themselves often outweighs the depth of their knowledge.

This imbalance poses a challenge for audiences and decision-makers who must discern true thought leaders from those who have mastered the art of personal branding. It also risks sidelining individuals who may not seek the spotlight but have far more valuable insights to share.

The Path to Meaningful Impact

For those who genuinely aspire to be keynote speakers, the focus should be on building expertise first and letting the opportunities to speak follow naturally. Substance, after all, is what resonates with audiences and builds lasting credibility. Aspiring speakers should invest time in mastering their field, contributing to meaningful projects, and developing original ideas. When these efforts are recognized, the title of “keynote speaker” will carry authentic weight.

Event organizers and audiences also have a role to play in elevating the quality of speakers. By prioritizing subject matter expertise and proven impact over polished self-promotion, they can ensure that keynote stages remain platforms for meaningful dialogue rather than vanity projects.

Rethinking Self-Promotion

LinkedIn and other professional platforms thrive on personal branding, and self-promotion isn’t inherently wrong. However, professionals should strike a balance between showcasing their achievements and maintaining authenticity. When it comes to adopting titles like “keynote speaker,” honesty and humility go a long way. If someone has only spoken at one event, it might be more transparent to list it as an accomplishment rather than a defining credential.

In the end, the true measure of a speaker is not how many stages they’ve graced but the impact they’ve had on their audiences and their fields. The world doesn’t need more people chasing the spotlight—it needs more individuals committed to sharing knowledge, fostering understanding, and inspiring change. By focusing on substance over self-promotion, professionals can ensure that their contributions, not just their titles, speak for themselves.