HOW TO HIRE A KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Hiring a keynote speaker for your event can significantly influence its success. But what should you know about picking a presenter and how to most effectively engage them? We’re happy to assist – and glad you asked…

1. Understand Your Audience: Know the demographics, interests, and expectations of your attendees. The speaker you choose should appeal to their interests and offer a message that resonates with them.
2. Determine the Objective of Your Event: The speaker’s message should align with the purpose of your conference, tradeshow, or gathering. If it’s an educational event, you might want an industry expert; if it’s a motivational event, consider a motivational speaker.
3. Budget: Fees for keynote speakers can vary greatly, from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the speaker’s reputation, experience, and demand. Ensure the speaker’s fee fits within your budget.
4. Speaker’s Expertise: Be certain that the speaker is knowledgeable and experienced in the topic they’ll be discussing. They should be able to offer unique insights and engage the audience effectively.
5. Presentation Style: Every speaker has a different style of presentation. Some are humorous, some are serious, and others are interactive. Decide on the type of delivery that would best suit your audience.
6. Check Past Performances: If possible, watch videos of the speaker’s past performances. This will give you a clear idea about their delivery style and ability to engage an audience.
7. References: Request references or read testimonials about the speaker – a practice that can help provide insight into how the speaker has been received in the past.
8. Availability and Accessibility: Ensure the speaker is available on the dates of your event and can travel to your location. Some speakers might also offer virtual presentations, which can be an option.
9. Technical Requirements: Depending on the speaker’s presentation, there might be specific technical requirements, like certain audio-visual equipment or staging. Make sure your venue can accommodate these needs.
10. Contractual Obligations: Understand the speaker’s contract thoroughly, including cancellation policies, payment terms, and what services are included in their fee.
11. Rehearsals: Find out if the speaker is willing to participate in a run-through or rehearsal if needed.
12. Speaker’s Preferences: Some speakers might have specific requests or needs, like accommodation, travel, meals, or other requirements. Be sure to clarify these in advance.

By taking the time to research and understand these points, you can increase the likelihood of selecting a speaker who will add significant value to your event.