Once you're comfortable with basic searching in Speaker Drive, it's time to use the platform's full search capabilities to zero in on your ideal opportunities. Let's dive into how to become a search pro.
The Search Bar Super Powers
That search bar at the top does more than you might think. It searches across:
- Event names
- Organization names
- Job titles
- Event topics and tags
- Keywords and descriptions
Pro tip: Try searching for a speaker you admire—you might find events where they've spoken, which could be perfect for you too.
Event Filters: Getting Specific
Event Format
Match the type of speaking you want to do:
- Conferences: Large-scale speaking opportunities
- Summits: Industry-focused gatherings
- Workshops: Hands-on training sessions
- Seminars: Educational events
- Forum/Roundtable: Interactive discussions
- Consulting Potential: Opportunities beyond speaking
Event Category
Narrow down by industry focus:
- Technology & Media
- Education & Training
- Sales & Customer Service
- Leadership & Development
- And many more
Past Speakers and Experts
This is a hidden gem. Type in the name of:
- Speakers with similar expertise
- People who serve your target market
- Industry leaders in your space
Location Filters: Going Where You Want
Start broad or narrow:
- Toggle between Worldwide and United States
- Filter by specific states
- Search by city
- Find virtual-only events
- Focus on specific regions (UK, Asia Pacific, etc.)
Organization Filters: Following the Money
Organization Type
Different organizations have different needs:
- Corporations: Often higher budgets, focused on ROI
- Associations: Regular events, member-focused
- Government Bodies: Longer sales cycles, specific requirements
- Educational Institutions: Academic or training focus
Organization Search
Looking for specific companies? Just type them in. Great for:
- Target accounts you want to work with
- Organizations that regularly host events
- Companies known for specific types of training
Views: Unique vs All
At the bottom of your filters, you'll find the Views toggle:
- Unique (Default): Shows one entry per event
- All: Displays every available unlock
When to use All view:
- Finding multiple contact points for an organization
- Seeing all possible ways to reach an event team
- Understanding the full scope of an opportunity
Building Smart Search Strategies
- Start Broad, Then Narrow • Begin with your main topic or industry • Add filters one at a time • Watch how each filter affects your results
- Create Search Patterns • Monday: Search new conferences • Tuesday: Focus on a specific region • Wednesday: Look for past speaker opportunities
- Follow the Breadcrumbs • Find one good event? • Look up the organization • Check similar events • Search for related speakers
Quick Search Recipes
Looking for high-fee opportunities?
- Filter for corporations
- Focus on conferences
- Look in major cities
Want recurring business?
- Filter for associations
- Look for annual events
- Focus on organizations with multiple events
Building regional business?
- Set your state filter
- Look for local organizations
- Include nearby major cities
Pro Tips
- Save successful search combinations by noting the filters that work
- Use the location filter early if travel is a key factor
- Toggle between Contacts and Events to see different perspectives on the same opportunity
- Check both current and past events—organizations that booked speakers before will likely need them again
Need help building the perfect search? Ask Speaker Drive can help you craft search strategies for your specific goals.