If you’ve ever sat through a keynote that felt longer than a flight delay, you’re not alone. According to our recent survey of event attendees, 72% prefer keynotes that run between 20 and 40 minutes. Audiences are clearly saying: keep it short, keep it strong, and keep it moving.
So what’s behind this shift and how can planners and speakers adapt? Let’s dive in.
Why Event Attendees Want Keynotes Under 40 Minutes
1. Attention Is the New Currency
Between endless notifications and TikTok-trained attention spans, focus is now one of the rarest commodities in any room.
Our survey revealed that session length and pacing ranked as the #1 factor in event satisfaction—even ahead of “speaker quality” and “topic relevance.” That means event design plays just as big a role in audience engagement as the speakers themselves. Shorter sessions don’t just save time—they increase energy, focus, and retention. A well-crafted 30-minute keynote can land with more punch than a 60-minute one, leaving the audience energized rather than drained.
2. Quality Over Quantity
A shorter talk doesn’t mean a smaller impact—it means a sharper one. When speakers focus on a single big idea, they can deliver it with clarity, emotion, and purpose.
Our data backs this up: attendees said the most engaging talks were story-driven (44%), practical/how-to (37%), and entertaining (32%). That’s the winning formula—brief, relevant, and real. Think of it like a TED Talk: one clear message, delivered with heart.
3. How Speakers Can Adapt
1. Trim the Fat: Start strong, skip the long biography, and get straight to the story or insight that hooks the audience.
2. Plan for Engagement: Over half of attendees said they prefer some interactivity—quick polls, short Q&A, or light exercises. Even two minutes of engagement can make a huge difference.
3. End with a Call to Action: Instead of closing with a recap, end with a challenge or reflection. Leave your audience thinking, not just clapping.
5 Speaker Recommendations for Your Next Event
Shorter keynotes and sessions require skill, precision, and energy. These five speakers deliver all that and then some.
Dr. Jody Carrington — Emotional Connection in Half the Time
Dr. Jody Carrington is proof that you can move an audience to laughter, tears, and reflection—in under 40 minutes. Her storytelling is electric: part therapist, part entertainer, all heart. Whether she’s talking about reconnection, resilience, or leadership in a burned-out world, Jody’s high-energy delivery leaves people feeling seen, inspired, and ready to take action. She shows that emotional impact isn’t about time on stage—it’s about the connection you create while you’re there.
Jesse Lipscombe — Do Something. Say Less, Mean More
Actor, activist, and entrepreneur Jesse Lipscombe believes impact comes from action, not airtime. His “Do Something” message has inspired audiences across Canada to take small, meaningful steps toward change—whether that’s in business, community, or culture. In 30 minutes or less, Jesse delivers stories that stick. His keynotes are raw, motivational, and grounded in authenticity, reminding audiences that brevity and boldness often go hand in hand.
Anthony Morgan — The Smart Side of Short
Science and storytelling meet entertainment in Anthony Morgan’s high-energy sessions. Known for his work with CBC’s The Nature of Things, Anthony uses humour, visuals, and data-backed storytelling to make complex ideas feel fresh and fun. He’s a master of the “micro-moment”—teaching big lessons in small bursts. Whether he’s unpacking neuroscience or innovation, Anthony keeps every second meaningful (and memorable).
Kate Beirness — The Power of the Fireside Format
As a veteran sports broadcaster and host, Kate Beirness brings precision timing and natural charisma to the stage. She knows how to draw out meaningful insights, keep the pace lively, and make every conversation feel personal—whether she’s moderating a panel or leading a fireside chat. Kate’s approach proves that not every event moment needs a long keynote. Sometimes, the most powerful impact comes from conversation over presentation.
Doug Griffiths — Leadership Lessons Built for the Future
Bestselling author and community builder Doug Griffiths understands that attention spans are short, but leadership challenges are long. His 13 Ways to Kill Your Community keynote distills decades of experience into crisp, practical lessons that help leaders think differently about growth, change, and resilience. Doug’s straightforward delivery and thought-provoking insights make him a natural fit for today’s tighter schedules—leaders walk away with big ideas in half the time.
How Planners Can Rethink Their Schedules
Audiences want energy, not endurance. Here’s how top planners are responding:
- Shorter sessions, bigger variety: Alternate 30-minute keynotes with quick firesides or panels.
- Built-in breathing room: Ten-minute breaks keep focus high and conversation flowing.
- Use early sessions to set the tone: Kick off the morning with a punchy talk that grabs attention.
- Close strong, not long: End with energy—a fast, inspiring talk or a short fireside reflection.
When you design for rhythm instead of runtime, you create an event people remember (and actually enjoy).
Final Word: Why 72% of Attendees Want Keynotes Under 40 Minutes
In an age of distraction, brevity is a superpower. As one attendee told us in the survey: “I remember the speakers who made me feel something—not the ones who talked the longest.”
At Talent Bureau, we work with keynote speakers who know how to deliver big impact in short sessions. Because when it comes to connection, inspiration, and takeaways that last—shorter really is better.