IS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER ALWAYS FIRST?

When attending a major conference, summit, or high-profile event, you’ll almost always find the term “keynote speaker” emblazoned across the main marquee. But does the esteemed keynote speaker always have to deliver the first speech kicking off the proceedings?

In the traditional sense, yes – a keynote presentation is intended to set the overarching tone and provide a thematic anchor for the entire event. Having the keynote speaker take the stage first to deliver opening remarks, outline core focus areas, and share an inspiring message aligned with the gathering’s mission does follow typical protocol.

There are sound reasons why keynotes have historically occupied that primetime opening slot. As a headliner meant to capture attendees’ attention and enthusiasm right out of the gate, the keynote speech creates a strong first impression. It’s an opportunity to rally the crowd, provide key framing, and send everyone off with infectious energy for the subsequent breakouts and experiences to follow.

However, today’s event organizers are realizing there can be flexibility and creative reformatting around when a keynote speaker takes the mic. Depending on variables like scheduling, programming structure, and audience flow, placing the keynote later in the schedule may actually prove more impactful in certain situations.

For events spanning multiple days, saving the keynote for the middle or later on can be an effective way to refocus and re-energize the crowd amidst the marathon of sessions and activities. A keynote speech can provide the perfect interlude and remind everyone of the larger importance behind why they’ve gathered.

In other cases, organizers may choose to open with some preliminary speakers, entertainment elements or shorter “thumb-nugget” style talks to catapult excitement and build toward a true grand keynote later in the program as the centerpiece. This can preserve that highly-anticipated keynote as the climactic highlight while priming audiences to be in the ideal mindset to absorb the core messaging.

Certain formats, like leadership or regional seminars on niche topics, may even call for the keynote speaker to close out the entire experience. Their speech would summarize key principles covered, lay out clear action steps, and send attendees out on a high note of motivation to take what they’ve learned and apply it.

While the opening salvo is familiar keynote speaker placement, smart programming and a willingness to adapt tradition only enhances their potential impact. The keynote speech itself is the centerpiece – not strictly its chronological ordering on the agenda.