HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT SPEAKER AGENCY

Meeting planners often wonder how to pick the right speaker agency. When planning a conference, corporate meeting, or other major event, booking a motivational speaking pro is often a top priority and significant line item investment. To that extent, understanding things like how to pick the right speaker agency is critical especially as an outstanding keynote can educate audiences, inspire change, create buzz, and elevate the entire event experience. Conversely, a lackluster speaker fails to deliver value and undermines your objectives.

With so much riding on securing an exceptional speaker, partnering with the right agency is absolutely essential for event success. Here’s a closer look at why how to pick the right speaker agency matters:

Access to Top Speaking Talent

Reputable speaker agencies have extensive networks and represent elite orators across diverse sectors – from motivational personalities and celebrity speakers to cutting-edge thought leaders and subject matter experts. Their curated rosters offer unparalleled access to premium speaking talent perfectly aligned with your event themes and audience demographics.

Vetted Speaking Skills and Fit

The best speaker agencies thoroughly vet speakers for factors like stage presence, storytelling capabilities, and professionalism before bringing them onto their rosters. Their talented booking agents can ensure a prospective speaker is a ideal fit both in terms of content and audience engagement style before you commit.

Invaluable Event Expertise

As part of comprehending how to pick the right speaker agency, note that seasoned talent agents have the specialized knowledge to recommend not just a speaker, but suggest creative session formats, media integrations, speech topics, and more that elevate engagement. Their extensive event experience helps navigate logistics like venue requirements, AV needs, unions, travel, and beyond.

Full-Service Support

Rather than simply suggesting name options, top agencies offer comprehensive services to ensure seamless speaker integration from start to finish. Their services may include vetting, contract negotiations, travel management, publicity, speaker coaching, virtual broadcasting, and day-of on-site support.

Risk Mitigation

A reputable partner acts as a trusted advisor to mitigate risks throughout the hiring process. Their industry know-how helps avoid potential pitfalls from issues like unrealistic fee expectations to unprofessional behavior. A valid representation agreement also protects your interests.

While not an inexpensive investment, engaging a premiere speaker agency is well worth the cost compared to the damage a subpar speaker can inflict. By choosing the right agency partner, you can book speakers who deliver tremendous value proposition and ROI in the form of enlightened, energized, buzzworthy events.