Selecting the right keynote speaker can make or break your event, setting the tone and capturing the attention of your audience. The perfect keynote speaker leaves a message that lingers long after the audience has left the conference hall, but with so many great speakers available, how do you make the right decision?
How do you resonate with delegates, whilst reflecting your event goals? From understanding your audience to defining outcomes you want, there are key steps to consider when choosing the perfect keynote speaker for your event or conference. Discover the top things you should consider when hiring a keynote speaker below.
1. Define Your Event Theme & Audience
Defining your event theme and audience is the first step in choosing the perfect keynote speaker. Start by identifying the theme that you want your event to focus on, whether it’s leadership, innovation, mental health and wellbeing, diversity or inclusion. Keynote speakers deliver speeches on specific topics, so it is vital that you select a speaker who has genuine expertise on your chosen event theme or topic. A keynote speaker who fully aligns with your event goals and subject will deliver increased impact, making the event both relevant and memorable for attendees.
Equally important is defining your audience, considering the demographic of the people who will be attending your event. For example, a business conference for senior leaders will require different keynote speakers than an educational event for school pupils. By clarifying your theme and audience, you can ensure that the keynote speaker you select is the perfect fit.
2. Set a Budget for Your Keynote Speaker
Setting a budget for your keynote speaker is an essential step in planning your event. It creates a clear ballpark, helping you to narrow down which speakers are realistically within the range of what you are willing to spend. According to The Motivational Speakers Agency, fees can range anywhere from around £1000 for emerging voices, to in excess of £60,000 for world-renowned keynote speakers. By setting the parameters of the budget early, you avoid wasting time approaching speakers who are outside of your budget.
Source: https://motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk/about/motivational-speakers-costs
Remember, a keynote speaker’s fees often reflect their speaker’s experience, reputation and demand, so aligning your budget with expectations ensures that you can secure a keynote speaker who delivers real impact to your audience.
3. Assess the Expertise & Authority of the Speaker
Once you have decided on the theme of your event, it’s important to assess both their expertise and authority. Start by exploring speakers who align with the theme of your event. A keynote speaker with relevant knowledge ensures the message resonates with your audience and supports your goals. Look closely at their speaking topics to ensure they have genuine authority in the subject matter, whether that be artificial intelligence, racial equality or mental health. Testimonials from previous events are also invaluable, providing a real insight into how the speaker connects with audiences and the impact they deliver. Also consider the calibre of the other speakers that they have worked with; this often reflects their professional standing.
A speaker who is trusted by well-known organisations or who has been invited to speak with other high-profile individuals demonstrates increased credibility. By weighing these factors, you can confidently select a keynote speaker who will inspire, engage and leave a lasting impression.
4. Watch Videos of the Speaker’s Previous Speaking Events
Watching videos of speakers in action is the quickest way to judge their energy, clarity, expertise and suitability for your event. Look for stage presence and confidence, natural humour, concise storytelling and key takeaways. Evaluate if their message matches the theme of your event, and see how they manage timings to align with the format of your event.
Watch different styles of keynote speeches, short and long. Watch clips to see if the speaker would be suitable for a Q&A or a fireside chat, as each speaker excels in certain styles. To explore a variety of speaker showreels, interviews and keynote speeches, browse Champions Speakers’ YouTube channel!
5. Seek the Guidance of an Expert Keynote Speaker Agency
Seeking the guidance of a keynote speaker agency brings knowledge, experience and connections that save you time and reduce risk. Expert keynote speaker agents understand what different audiences respond to, which speakers fit your event theme and which speakers fit within your allocated budget. A speaker agency will also handle event logistics, ensuring that the travel and accommodation for the keynote speaker are sorted.
With access to a wide network of trusted professionals, they can suggest options you might not find yourself. Expert guidance ensures your event delivers impact, engages your audience and achieves lasting results.
Sources: https://www.forbes.com/sites/shephyken/2019/06/30/so-you-want-to-be-a-motivational-speaker/ and https://champions-speakers.co.uk/news/key-tips-choosing-perfect-keynote-speaker
