5 COMMON MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE WHEN HIRING A 'KEYNOTE' SPEAKER AND HOW Volume 1 | Page 3

M ISTA KE #1
NOT FINDING
THAT CONNECTION
When it comes to keynote speaking, the mistake most
people make is trying to go biggest and best when it
comes to speakers. It is not about being the brightest,
funniest, sexiest or smartest, the crucial element is the
ability to connect with the audience and this is an
art form.
After all, keynote speaking is about more than simply
conveying a message-anyone can do that. It’s about
leaving a lasting impression, which will ensure the
message is more than simply conveyed, it will guarantee
it is remembered and acted upon.
fresh mind might give you the perspective of a future
audience member.
When it comes to judging a story, do it not just on the
content and how well this relates to your message. Make
sure you also look at the way the story is being told, the
ease at which the storyteller tells the tale, and how relevant
the story is to your audience.
Story
Telling
How do we connect?
By delivering a story the audience can relate to and
which is a vehicle for conveying the intended message.
In many ways the ‘story’ is more crucial than the
speaker, so this is what you also need to evaluate before
you make your choices.
Ask your intended speakers to give you a brief
breakdown of how they intend to convey your message
and judge them on that. When you do, make sure you
have someone else to give an outsiders perspective as
you know your message inside out so might identify it
clearly even if the story is rather abstract, whereas a
Once you have a shortlist, stalk them on the Internet. All
good speakers have video clips on YouTube, uploaded by
them and previous clients - watch these. Look at how well
the speaker interacts with the audience, the level of
honesty portrayed in their storytelling and their body
language. Whether they are relaxed and perhaps most
importantly of all, whether they are enjoying it.
By doing this you will have a far better chance of ensuring
the right keynote speaker is at your event.