When it comes to organizing an event, whether it’s a conference, a corporate meeting, or a community gathering, one element can make or break the experience—having a great speaker. A great speaker is the secret ingredient in the recipe; without it, the dish just doesn’t have the same flavor. The impact of an engaging speaker can energize an audience, create a memorable experience, and inspire people to take action. The problem is, it can be difficult to find someone truly memorable. Nowadays, every salesman, aspiring actor, and social media influencer claims that they’re the perfect fit for your next event. So, how do you find a great speaker for your event? Let’s explore some practical tips to help you in your search.
Understanding Your Audience
The first step in finding the perfect speaker is to understand who your audience is. Consider their demographics: What is their age range? What are their interests? Do they have specific professional backgrounds or experiences? Knowing your audience is crucial because the best speaker for your event is one who can connect with the people in the room.
If you’re hosting a tech conference, a speaker well-versed in cutting-edge technology trends will obviously hold more value than someone who specializes in old-world homemaking techniques. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that your speaker has to be directly related to tech either. Speakers could be from related fields that your audience could benefit from, like business innovation, marketing, leadership, consumer behavior, or education.
It really hinges on understanding your audience and what they would consider valuable or needed in your industry or organization. You could even gather feedback from potential attendees before the event by sending out surveys to gauge their interests. This information will guide you as you look for a speaker who can resonate with them.
Define Event Goals and Themes
Next, it’s important to outline the goals of your event. Are you aiming to educate attendees about new industry trends? Or do you want to motivate them to implement changes in their professional lives? Maybe your goal is simply to provide some entertainment and laughter. Whatever the purpose is, be sure to look for a speaker who aligns with those goals. Most professional speakers are also willing and able to make adjustments to their presentations to fit those goals.
Creating a theme for your event can also help narrow down your needs. If your event is focused on “Innovation in Business,” then you’ll look for speakers who have a wealth of knowledge in that area, and who can share their insights with enthusiasm. When both the speaker and the theme are in sync, it increases your chances of having a memorable presentation.
Research Potential Speakers
Once you have a clear understanding of your audience and goals, it’s time to start your research. There are many places to find professional speakers, such as speaker agencies, online platforms, or even social media. You can also ask for recommendations from colleagues or friends who have organized similar events.
As you research, take the time to visit speakers’ websites. Their pages often include videos of their past presentations, testimonials from previous clients, and summaries of their expertise. If a speaker has been successful in the past, their content will likely reflect their ability to engage an audience.
Evaluate Speaking Style and Content
Speaking style can vary widely among professional speakers. Some may be informative and straightforward, while others might be motivational or entertaining. Before making a decision, it’s vital to evaluate the speaker’s style and how it aligns with the tone you wish to set for your event. Are you looking for someone who will inspire with personal stories, or do you want a speaker who will delve deep into facts and figures? What time will the speaker come up? Will it be after morning coffee when everyone is awake and crisp, or right after lunch when the audience is full and thinking about a nap? Will they be following someone that is low or high energy? These are important details when choosing a speaker’s style.
Watching videos of the speakers can give you a good sense of their style. Pay attention to their delivery, body language, and the way they connect with the audience. Does the speaker engage the crowd? Do they create a dialogue, or is it more of a monologue? Which do you want? Finding a speaker whose style resonates with your audience is essential.
Consider Experience and Expertise
In the world of professional speaking, experience often translates to confidence and skill. A seasoned speaker who has delivered numerous presentations will generally have a better grasp of how to engage an audience effectively. Look for speakers who have a strong background in the topic you want them to discuss. This ensures they have the knowledge and insights to provide real value.
When you identify potential speakers, check their credentials and backgrounds. Many noteworthy speakers have written books, conducted workshops, or held positions in relevant industries. Their expertise will come through in their delivery and content, making for a more enriching experience for your attendees. If you ask a speaker to speak on a subject they’re not familiar with, you will likely lose the passion and insights they might otherwise share.
Communication and Responsiveness
Once you’ve narrowed down your potential speakers, consider how they communicate. Are they responsive to your inquiries? Do they ask questions about your event and audience? A good speaker will show a genuine interest in understanding your needs and tailoring their presentation accordingly. Open communication during the selection process is a sign that they will be flexible and accommodating leading up to the event.
During your interactions, pay attention to the speaker’s enthusiasm. A passionate speaker can transform a simple presentation into an inspiring experience. If they are engaging and responsive in your conversations, chances are they will bring that same energy to your event.
How Much Do Professional Speakers Cost?
Keep in mind that fees can vary widely based on factors like a speaker’s level of experience, demand, and any travel costs. It’s essential to understand what’s included in their fees as well—some speakers might offer additional services, such as post-event content or workshops.
Speakers with little to no speaking experience but plenty of industry expertise may cost anywhere from $2500-$5000. Newer speakers and speakers that are industry experts can cost anywhere from $5000-$10,000. Experienced corporate speakers that are regulars on corporate circuits can range from $10,000-$20,000. Bestselling authors, professional athletes, and B-list celebrities can run you anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000.
But don’t hesitate to negotiate fees, especially if you have a particular speaker in mind whose rate exceeds your budget. Many professionals are open to discussing their fees, especially for events they feel passionately about.
How do I find a Free Speaker for My Event?
While it’s easy to find a free speaker, remember, you get what you pay for. There are many new and inexperienced speakers, as well as confidant and outspoken salespeople, available on online speaking bureaus that will be interested in speaking free of charge. But keep in mind that the quality will likely be very low, and the presenter may spend the time trying to sell your audience some product or service rather than providing any real value.
If your event is a charitable one that is a passion of a particular presenter, it may be possible to land a quality speaker free of charge. But typically, a professional speaker is just that- a professional. He or she has invested considerable time and money into making their presentations valuable.
Conclusion
Finding the best professional speakers for your event may take time and effort, but the right choice can lead to a memorable experience for everyone in attendance. By understanding your audience, defining your event goals, researching your options, evaluating speaking styles, and communicating effectively, you can select a speaker who aligns perfectly with your vision.
Remember, a great speaker doesn’t just deliver a speech; they create an experience that resonates long after the event is over. So take your time, do your research, and choose wisely. Your audience deserves the best!
Equipped with these tips, you’re now ready to start your search! Of course, we’re quite partial to our available speakers, CLICK HERE to learn more about them. Don’t forget to bookmark this page to Find the Perfect Speaker for Your Next Event, and subscribe to our blog for more insights on event planning and public speaking. Happy planning!
