How To Find the Right Speaker To Inspire Your Audience

How To Find the Right Speaker To Inspire Your Audience

Finding the right keynote speaker for a business event is essential. It can make the difference between an event that truly resonates with the audience, and one that falls flat.

A compelling, resonating speaker can inspire, educate, and engage your audience, leaving a lasting impression that keeps your event on the tips of tongues for weeks to come. Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, a leadership retreat, or a company-wide seminar, selecting the right speaker requires careful consideration.

Here are some key steps to help you find the perfect fit for your event.

1. Define Your Key Objectives

Before you start your speaker search, it’s crucial to define the key goals of your event. Are you looking to motivate your team, provide industry insights, or inspire innovation?

Understanding the desired outcome will help you narrow down the type of speaker you need, whether it’s a thought leader, industry expert, motivational speaker, or someone with a compelling personal story to share.

2. Consider the type of event you’re planning

Speaker suitability greatly depends on the type of event that you’re planning. For example, conference speakers are best for conferences and other large-attendance events, whereas performers and entertainers are best suited for light-hearted events and celebrations.

You should always finalise event details before booking the speaker, or you might end up with a disjointed final product.

3. Understand Your Audience

Your audience’s interests, professional backgrounds, and expectations should help to guide your speaker choice. Consider factors such as their industry, their level of expertise and their demographics.

A speaker that resonates with advanced, CEO-level roles might not have the same impact on a younger, more diverse audience. Ensuring alignment between the speaker and attendees will maximise engagement and success levels.

4. Thoroughly Research Speakers

Once you have a clear idea of what you need, it’s time to research potential speakers.

Look at their background, industry experience, and previous speaking engagements to see if they’re the right fit. Check their website or their representatives, as well as their social media presence and video clips to get a sense of their style and delivery.

Client testimonials and reviews are also worthwhile checking, as they can provide valuable insights into their impact.

5. Consider Industry Relevance

A speaker with experience in your industry will likely have a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities your audience faces, therefore making them a better fit than a speaker from a different industry. Speakers offer insights and relatable anecdotes on specific topics, meaning that they can resonate more effectively than a generalist speaker.

However, it’s important not to completely discount speakers from outside your industry, as these speakers will likely bring in a fresh perspective and new ways of thinking.

6. Align With Your Budget

Speakers come with varying price tags, so it’s important to set a budget early on to ensure you don’t spend too much or have to break into savings accounts.

High-profile speakers may draw larger crowds but will come at a premium cost. If your budget is more limited, consider emerging speakers or industry experts who can deliver exceptional value without the hefty price tag.

7. Engage with a Speaker Bureau

Working with a reputable speaker bureau can streamline the process of finding the right speaker. Bureaus have access to a wide range of speakers, can recommend those that align with your needs, and handle logistics such as contracts, travel, and fees.

Choosing the right speaker is an investment in the success of your business event. By taking the time to carefully consider your objectives, audience, and budget, you can ensure your event is inspiring, engaging, and truly memorable.