One of the biggest questions I get is why don't I speak at Search Engine Strategies conferences?

Early on, probably 4 years ago, I did ask Danny to speak once. But I didn't make a formal pitch, the way he likes it. But since then, I have never requested to speak since, in fact, I prefer not to for several reasons.

  • I am not selling anything, I do not offer SEO services, nor do I sell SEM products
  • I have no desire to speak in front of people (although I have spoken several times at other conferences)
  • I don't feel I have much to add beyond the current speakers
  • I already have a voice via blogging
  • I don't want to take a speaker spot away from someone else who may need it
  • I get a cool green badge, when the rest either get no color or an ugly red one that says "speaker" on it

Barry Schwartz's Press Badge from SES Chicago 2006 Conference

Now honestly, which badge would you rather have. It is rare to see the green badge, but the red badge is all over the place. ;-)