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Shama Hyder
• Shows leaders how to build Strategic Urgency - the ability to identify market opportunities and act on them faster than competitors - resulting in immediate ROI and competitive advantage.
• Innovation strategist who pioneered digital transformation and built + sold company on "trend" of social media 500+ keynotes delivered across 26 countries for Fortune
• 500s including JP Morgan Chase, NASA, Disney, Microsoft, and Marriott
• 4x LinkedIn Top Voice with 2M+ reach
• Known for: Translating AI + future trends into practical frameworks you can implement Monday morning.
Shama Hyder is the strategist CEOs and leaders call when they need to make AI and digital innovation drive real business growth.
Named one of the "Top 100 Entrepreneurs in North America" by the White House and United Nations, Shama brings a battle-tested, operator's perspective from founding and scaling Zen Media - a global B2B consultancy serving Fortune 500 brands. She's…
Topics
The Strategy of Now: Building Strategic Urgency in the Age of AI
Turning Collective Panic Into Strategic Urgency
Leaders across the globe are feeling the collective panic. From the sinking feeling after seeing a competitor announce a new deal to the key customer who loves you, but decided not to renew their contract, companies are scrambling to identify their next market opportunity.
Even well-respected and well-funded brands are feeling the pressure. Markets are moving faster than planning cycles. Customer expectations shifting faster than processes. What gave you an advantage last year is table stakes today.
The companies winning right now aren't experiencing less panic. They've just learned how to transform it into Strategic Urgency: the ability to see signals of opportunity before competitors do, interpret which ones matter for their specific business, and act with strategic speed while windows are still open.
What You'll Learn:
Through case studies and stories of companies that transformed panic into breakthrough results (including a CEO who captured $10M in earned media from a social moment, a restaurant tech company that seized market share during a global disruption, early platform adopters who built audiences of millions), you'll discover:
• The Six Signal Types that reveal where opportunities are forming right now, before they become obvious. From customer behavior shifts to platform algorithm changes, you'll learn where to look and what timing windows mean for how fast you need to move.
• The Six Questions Framework that translates "that's interesting" into "we should act on this." This system helped one company go from seeing a market disruption to launching their response in one meeting while competitors were still building consensus.
Why smart teams stay stuck in panic mode even when they can see opportunities. The three patterns that keep capable leaders paralyzed, and how to break free.Your Team Walks Away With:
• The Strategic Urgency Framework: The SEE → INTERPRET → ACT system with all six signal types and six decision questions. Tools for transforming collective panic into focused action.
• A 72-Hour Action Challenge: Each person identifies one signal they're seeing RIGHT NOW and commits to taking action within 72 hours. Not launching the whole thing. One action that breaks the paralysis.
• The Energy Shift: From "let's schedule a meeting to discuss this" to "what can we test today?" Watch your team transform from panic mode to purposeful action. The mindset that separates companies that set the agenda from companies that respond to moves made by others.The Transformation You'll Feel:
• "I've never seen our team this energized about actually DOING something instead of just talking about it. People were implementing ideas before they even left the room." - Recent Attendee
(Perfect for organizations feeling the pressure to move faster, teams stuck between panic and paralysis, and leaders who need to channel urgency into competitive advantage.)
Leadership in the Age of AI: How to Build Strategic Urgency Across Your Organization
Creating the Culture That Makes Teams Move with Purpose
What's Keeping Leaders Up at Night: It's not just one thing. It's three converging forces happening at once:
• Markets moving faster than your planning cycles.
• Generational shifts changing how people work and make decisions.
• AI and new technologies rewriting the rules while you're still playing the old game.Any one of these would be challenging. Together, they're creating collective anxiety across every level of your organization.
Meanwhile, your team has lost their edge. Meetings feel like Groundhog Day. The hunger to grow the customer base or expand to new markets has been replaced by the comfort of process. People are waiting for someone to tell them what to do instead of figuring out what needs to be done.
Here's what most leaders miss: The same forces disrupting your business are disrupting your clients' businesses too. Understanding this doesn't just help you lead better. It helps you serve better. It gives you the context to frame challenges and opportunities in ways that matter.
The Leadership Shift: This keynote shows you how to build Strategic Urgency as an organizational capability, not just a leadership trait. You'll learn how to equip your people with the discernment to make the right decisions at the right pace. How to create the entrepreneurial mindset that turns "we've always done it this way" into "what if we tried this?"
This isn't about making everyone move faster. It's about building a culture where people develop the ability to spot signals, the judgment to interpret what matters, and the courage to act while windows are open.
Leadership Tools That Build Capability:
• The Six Signal Types Your Team Should Be Tracking: Teach your people where to look for opportunities (customer behavior shifts, talent movement, platform changes) so they're not just waiting for you to tell them what's important. Build a culture where everyone is scanning for signals.
The Six Questions That Build Strategic Judgment: Equip your team with the decision framework that translates "I see something interesting" into "we should act on this." Watch your leaders develop the discernment to know what deserves urgency and what doesn't.• The SEE → INTERPRET → ACT System for Your Organization: How to embed Strategic Urgency as an organizational capability, not just a leadership trait. Turn "let's schedule a meeting" culture into "what can we test this week?" momentum.
The Energy Shift You'll Create:
• "I walked out knowing exactly how to shake my team out of their comfort zone. Within a week, we killed three dead-end projects and launched two new experiments. The energy is completely different." - VP of Innovation
(Designed for leaders who need to build Strategic Urgency as a cultural capability, not just push people to move faster.)
Winning Customer Loyalty: Strategic Urgency in the Age of AI
Creating Customers for Life When Expectations Keep Rising
What's Really Happening: Customer expectations have fundamentally shifted. They want instant responses, personalized experiences, and to feel like they matter to you, not just another transaction. AI has made some of this possible, but it's also made it easier for businesses to feel impersonal and disconnected.
The brands winning at customer loyalty right now have figured out how to balance efficiency with humanity. How to use AI and new tools to work smarter while making customers feel more valued, not less. How to stay top of mind without being intrusive.
The gap isn't about who has the best product anymore. It's about who can deliver personalized experiences at scale, create processes that free teams to build real relationships, and develop people who know how to turn customers into raving fans.
What You'll Learn: Through real examples of companies that transformed customer relationships and created loyalty that drives repeat and referral business, you'll discover the three elements that create customers for life in an AI-driven world.The Three Elements of Customer Loyalty:
• Personalization: How to make every customer interaction feel valued and memorable, not transactional. Real strategies for creating experiences where customers feel seen and understood, no matter your scale or industry.
• Process: The operational efficiencies that free your team to focus on relationships, not busy work. How to use AI and Strategic Urgency to eliminate friction while creating seamless experiences that keep customers coming back.
• People: How to develop teams that naturally create advocates instead of just completing transactions. The New Rules of Influence that help your people stay top of mind and turn satisfied customers into active referral sources.The Energy Shift in Your Team:
• "Our service team went from dreading Monday to racing to implement new ideas. Customer satisfaction jumped 40%, but employee satisfaction jumped even more." - Head of Customer Success
(Perfect for customer-facing teams who want to win repeat business, create raving fans, and turn customer loyalty into a competitive advantage.)
The New Rules of Influence: How to Close More Deals in the Age of AI
What's Really Happening: Your sales team is working harder than ever but closing less. And it's not their fault. The entire sales game has changed. 92% of consumers research online before buying. 74% of B2B buyers complete more than half their research before ever talking to sales. By the time prospects reach out, they've already decided if you're in or out.
Your team is still trying to convince and educate, but modern buyers don't need that anymore. They need you to show up when they're ready, understand where they are in their journey, and make it easy to say yes. Meanwhile, AI has given your competitors the ability to work faster and smarter, leaving traditional sales teams in the dust.
The top-performing sales teams understand the new buyer journey and use AI to supercharge what they do best. They know where buyers research, how to show up in those moments, and how to move with Strategic Urgency when opportunities are hot.
What You'll Learn: Through real examples of sales teams that adapted to modern buyer behavior (organizations that cut sales cycles in half, teams that increased close rates by 35%, companies that used AI to work smarter instead of harder), you'll discover the new playbook for sales including:
• Understanding Modern Buyer Behavior: Where 92% of consumers are researching before they buy, how decisions are really made in the messy middle, and why showing up in the right places matters more than your pitch.
• The New Rules of Influence: Master the dark social channels where buying decisions actually happen. How to build trust and influence in a world where buyers control the journey.
• AI as Your Sales Supercharger: Practical ways AI can help you work faster (automate follow-ups, personalize at scale, research prospects instantly) so you can focus on what humans do best: building relationships and closing deals.
• Close THEN Convince: The counter-intuitive approach that works with how buyers actually buy today. Stop trying to convince skeptics. Start showing up for buyers who are already researching solutions like yours.Audience Feedback OR Feedback from Past Clients: "Our sales team was on fire after this talk. Close rates went up 35% in the next quarter because they finally understood how prospects were looking to buy in today's market." - Head of Sales
(Perfect for sales teams that need to understand modern buyer behavior, leverage AI to work smarter, and win more deals by aligning with how people actually buy.)
How can I check Shama Hyder's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Shama Hyder's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.
What is Shama Hyder's speaking fee?
The typical range for Shama Hyder's speaking fee is $15,000–$30,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Shama Hyder to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.
What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.
Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.
How do I book Shama Hyder for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps:
- Contact Key Speakers to confirm the speaker's availability, fees, and any unique requirements. We can also help negotiate fees and terms.
- Submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker. These details will be used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts.
- All parties coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions.
- Confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.
What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.
How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors:
- The speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry.
- Their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages.
- Past client testimonials, reviews, or references.
- The speaker's availability and fee within your budget.
What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.
How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.
Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.
Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.
Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.
Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.
How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.
Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help them improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.
Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.
Why book Shama Hyder though Key Speakers?
- We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker—from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We work closely with you from speaker selection to post-event success and always ensure that your needs are addressed first.
- We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. Leave the fine print to us so you can focus on other aspects of your event. Key Speakers mediates and absorbs some of the contractual risks that inherently come with booking a keynote speaker.
- With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. We pride ourselves on speedy response time and always keep you updated on all new developments relating to your event. Our experienced agents are personable (after our morning coffee!) and always eager to do whatever it takes to secure a fantastic speaker for your event.
To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event. We do the heavy lifting for you. Our dedicated and knowledgeable advisors ensure that your speaker's message and personal brand perfectly align to your event objectives.
Remember that the specific details and offerings may vary among different speakers, so it's always recommended to consult with your Key Speakers representative for accurate information and assistance.
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