Selecting a keynote speaker
Whether you are organising an event or conference you may look at hiring a keynote speaker. At events and conferences, often there will be a number of different speakers. A keynote speaker is the most important speaker. Similar to the headline act at a gig or concert!
How do I select a keynote speaker?
Whether you are choosing a public speaker depends on lots of different factors. Who is it that will be coming to the event? What kind of people are they? Are your clients business people? Is your crowd going to be members of the public? Are they part of a niche of any kind? E.g. you might be expecting a sales team. Would a sports speaker really be a good idea? Think, would a sports speaker match their needs? On the other hand, what about a sales speaker? You might also consider a motivational speaker for your sales audience
Keynote speakers- where to find them
Locating the correct keynote speaker can be hard. Two main ways of finding a keynote speaker. You could go direct. If for example you wanted a Sports Speaker for an opening of a new venue, you could contact their agent directly. Most keynote speakers will have their own website with contact details. You could tap their name into Google to find a contact.
Don’t pick a speaker too quickly
Why go for the first speaker you come across? Speaking and after dinner speeches is a growing industry. You wouldn’t believe for example the amount of retired sports stars that take on a career of making keynote speeches. Thinking again about choosing a keynote speaker, find out as much as you can about the speaker Don’t for example find a more risque speaker for a children’s event!
Filter down your speakers
A shortlist of about five or 6 would be good. Now you have a good selection, but not too many speakers. You can then approach the speakers one by one, and query pricing and availability.
Why should I go through an agency?
An alternative methods is using an agency. A speakers agency such as Speakers Associates are experts in finding keynote speakers They can take care of the hard work. This kind of help is vital. You can fill in the agent on what type of speaker you want, and rather than you do the research, they can then match the speaker to your event, taking out the hard work.
Planning your event
The key to a successful event is good organisation. A reliable speaker and strict itinerary are a must. Ensure you have the relevant contracts. Think if your speaker didn’t turn up on the day of the event! Doing this properly and using an agency can help avoid this.
Make sure you enjoy the day, whether it’s an event or conference. And don’t forget – The right keynote speaker will create a brilliant impression at your event.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.