How To Choose A Keynote Speaker For An Event

Whether you are organising an event or conference you may look at hiring a keynote speaker. There are several speakers at most events and conferences. The keynote speaker is the main speaker. Similar to the headline act at a gig or concert!

The reasons you are choosing a keynote speaker weighs on a lot of decisions. Who's coming to the conference? Who are you expecting? Are they business people? Are they members of the public? Do they belong to a niche of any sort? As an example, you might have sales people attending. Think, would a sports speaker match their needs? Alternatively consider a business speaker? What about a motivational speaker to gear up sales staff?

Selecting the right keynote speaker can be difficult. There are two main ways of finding a keynote speaker. Firstly you can go direct. If for example you wanted a sports speaker for an opening of a new venue, you could contact their agent directly. The majority of keynote speakers will have a website. So simply enter their name into Google, and you should find a contact number or email.

Don't rush into picking your speaker

Why go for the first speaker you encounter? Keynote speaking is a growing business. Picture all the retired sports starts that give after dinner speeches. Going back to choosing a keynote speaker, research and research again your speaker E.g. a speaker that makes rude jokes wouldn't be a suitable for an event attended by children!

File down your speakers

Make a shortlist of around half a dozen. Now you have a good selection, but not too many speakers. Then you can contact the speakers for pricing and availability one by one.

Why should I go through an agency?

You could use an agency. Keynote speakers are the speciality of a keynote speakers agency. Not only can they do all the arrangements and negotiations for you, but they can also pick the right speaker for you. This kind of help is vital. An agent can ask what sort of event you are putting on, and instead of you doing the research, they can then match the speaker to your event, taking out the hard work.

Organising the event

Good organisation is the key to any successful event. Ensure you have a reliable speaker, and a strict itinerary. Having the relevant contracts in place is also paramount. Think if your speaker didn't turn up on the day of the event! Going through an agency minimises this risk

Whether you are organising an event or conference, try and enjoy the day. And don't forget - choosing the right person is crucial to a successful impression on your clients.