I Dare You to Hire Keynote Speaker For Your Next Event

I love to public speak! Yes, I admit I am one of the weird ones in the world. Public speaking generally ranks up there with death when it comes to things people most try to avoid. Also known as glossophobia, the fear of public speaking. 

Hiring a professional keynote speaker can truly be one of the best things that could be done to pump up your next conference or event. I remember as a teenager looking forward to a particular summer conference, because of the great keynote speakers. Some organizations shy away from keynote speakers due to cost, but really most planners pay more for the coffee service than they budget for a speaker. Don’t get me wrong I don’t underestimate the power of coffee, but keynote speakers can truly enhance an event. Here are a couple things to consider when looking for a keynote speaker.

• When setting up your budget, plan to include your keynote speaker in the event budget plan. A keynote speaker can range from $5000-$20,000 and more. Remember to include their travel expenses in your budget as well.
• Decide what type of keynote speaker fits your audience. Do you want a speaker to entertain, train or inspire? Will your guests want a speaker that addresses similar themes as other workshops throughout the day or will this speaker be more for fun to break up the day or end the day with inspiration?
• Start early contacting your speakers, up to 6 months or more. Although, some speakers may have holes in their calendar so don’t hesitate to contact them even on 6 weeks’ notice.  
• Starting the search for a speaker can be daunting. A Google search will likely yield you pages of Speakers Bureaus and Agencies. I recommend non-profit Speakers Bureaus from your state. These membership organizations usually train and promote statewide talent and the speaker doesn’t pay a fee for you to find them.
• Once you contact and confirm the speakers, expect them to have a contract and they generally require payment before the event to ensure your spot on their calendar.  
• If you are booking their travel plans do that immediately and email the speaker all the confirmations.
• The day of the event have someone in charge of finding your speaker, as the main planner might be out of reach with other possible challenges.

Tips from Kaleene Toback, Events Director Denver Metro Apartment Association.

With this knowledge in hand, I Dare You to hire me or any truly great professional speaker for your next event.