The Speaker Agent Guide to finding a Good Keynote Speaker

5 Nov

By Michael Arnot, Principal, Encore Speakers

Finding the right keynote speaker for your event, conference, meeting, or training session can be challenging. Whether you’re juggling a day job with event planning or are an event professional handling multiple tasks, the search can feel daunting. Even if you’re experienced, finding a speaker you’ve never seen before—who will connect with your audience and deliver value—requires careful thought.

As a speaker agent and event manager with over 25 years of experience, I understand the frustrations of finding the perfect speaker. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some practical tips to make the process easier and ensure you find the right fit for your event:

1. Clarify What You’re Looking For

A common starting point for many clients is uncertainty about exactly what they need. Getting specific about your event’s objectives will simplify the process. Ask yourself:

• What is the goal of this event? Why are you hosting it?

• What key takeaways do you want attendees to leave with?

• Is there a central theme that ties together the event, or a specific message you want the speaker to complement?

• What are the key challenges, opportunities, or concerns your audience is facing?

2. Consider Your Audience’s Experience

Think about how you want your audience to feel during and after the presentation. Do you want them to feel motivated, challenged, educated, or entertained? Consider:

• The demographics and personalities of your attendees.

• The type of presentation style that will resonate with them.

• Whether the speaker’s character will engage and connect with your audience.

Even speakers with outstanding content can fail to make an impact if they don’t engage the right way, so be sure to list the qualities you need in a speaker to match your audience’s preferences.

3. Set a Realistic Budget

Professional speakers can be costly, but their expertise and experience make them an investment that can transform your event. A seasoned speaker brings years of practice and expertise into a presentation that can drive tangible results for your audience and your organization. Like purchasing a car, the value and experience vary based on what you’re willing to invest. Set a budget range that feels comfortable, so you can focus on speakers within your financial scope without overreaching.

4. Use Specific Search Terms

When searching online, be specific. Generic terms like “motivational speaker” will return an overwhelming number of results. Instead, use keywords that reflect the exact content or presentation style you’re looking for. Professional speakers often highlight their specialties on their websites, so the right search terms will help you find those who match your event’s needs.

5. Review their Website and Videos

Once you’ve identified a potential speaker, check their website to confirm they specialize in the topics you’re interested in. Then, watch their videos to evaluate both the content and their delivery style. Do their message and energy align with what you want for your event?

6. Evaluate their Key Takeaways

Great speakers deliver clear, memorable messages. Check whether their key takeaways are easy to identify and align with your event’s goals. If you’re looking for humor, assess whether their delivery style fits the tone you want.

7. Ensure their Presentation Style fits the Keynote Format

Keynote speeches should take the audience on a journey, with impactful stories that stick long after the event. A good keynote will weave in emotions, humor, and motivational insights to keep the audience engaged. Look for speakers who understand the ebb and flow of a keynote, ensuring it’s not just a lecture, but an emotional experience that resonates with the audience.

8. Consider the Content Depth

While workshops are perfect for “how-to” learning, keynotes should focus on creating an emotional connection and motivating your audience to think or act differently. Too many takeaways can overwhelm attendees before they’ve had a chance to process the main themes. Keep the content focused on delivering a memorable, high-impact message.

9. Speak with the Speaker

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, have a conversation with the speaker. A good speaker will want to understand your objectives and audience in order to ensure they’re a good fit. Be wary of anyone who simply says they can “do anything” — the best speakers will ask insightful questions and share how they can tailor their presentation to meet your specific needs.

10. Consider Professional Help

If you’re still feeling unsure, consider working with a speaker booking agency. A good agent will have in-depth knowledge of their speakers and can provide you with a tailored list of recommendations. They’ll offer unbiased advice and help you avoid hidden fees or add-ons. At Encore, we specialize in finding the perfect speaker for your event and offer the added value of event planning and coordination experience. With our 25+ years in the industry, we’ve worked with some of the world’s largest brands and events, ensuring that our speakers deliver exceptional results every time.