(…*continued*from*the*previous*page*“How*to*Determine*the*Best*Keynote*Speaker*for*Your*Event”)*
References. Ask about the
kind of group and their
needs. How effective was the
message?
What makes a meeting most
memorable?
Consider the time the keynote
speaker bombed. Did you ever
hear the end of it? But when the
speaker got the group excited
about the meeting, or made
everyone laugh following the
awards program, or sent
everyone home with a new
commitment to professionalism,
did you not hear about that for
months to come?
Our learning experiences stay
with us far longer than the
memory of a good theme,
fabulous meal, or fancy decor.
What do you need?
Thorough knowledge of your
group’s needs is essential in
selecting the right speaker.
Decide the goal or purpose of
your meeting. Is it primarily an
educational session? Are you
looking for light entertainment or
an inspiring motivational
message? How will the speaker
fit in with your group?
A “big name” speaker does not
guarantee a professional
presentation. On the other hand,
a professional speaker, an
individual who earns his/her
living on the platform, might
bring a wealth of experience to
make your meeting a resounding
success.
The speaker can tell you the right
amount of time for the job you
want done. Consider also the
strength, topic and style of the
various speakers on a multiplespeaker program. An outstanding
opening speaker will carry your
meeting through the first couple
of days.
Preview. Speech clips and/or
an invitation to see the
speaker live.
Personalization. The speaker
will learn about your group,
what your objectives and
specific needs are, and then
custom-design the
presentation accordingly in
content, format and length.
Don’t follow a humorist with a lowkey educational presentation even
though the speaker is equally
professional. Close with an uplifting,
inspiring message that will leave
your group wanting to come back
next year.
Why use a professional speaker?
Getting value for your dollar is an
important factor in any business.
Professional speakers allow you to
predict that value by providing:
Support material. Lets you know the
subjects he/she speaks on, types of
programs, and what the best format
would be (seminar, keynote, general
session, luncheon or banquet,
breakout session, etc.)
A speaker’s credentials are
important to you and your
group. Your speaker’s
background and credentials
can increase your meeting
attendance. Such credentials
include education,
experience, degrees, awards
and certifications.
The speaker’s experience in a
given field also may be a big
draw, but don’t assume
expertise will automatically
create an expert presenter.
The content of a presentation
is of equal importance if your
meeting requires that the
audience leave with specific
or technical information or
the group needs someone to
motivate them to sell.
What sources are there for finding
keynote speakers?
•
Personal referrals from colleagues, friends
and others who plan events.
•
Individual speaker websites or
comprehensive sites that feature prequalified speaker profiles for easy browsing
(such as Speaking.com).
•
Speakers bureaus have inside knowledge on
speakers, audience feedback and industry
trends and can suggest candidates.