How to Hire the Right Motivational Speaker
- By Christine OKelly
- Published 05/7/2009
- Business
Christine OKelly
View all articles by Christine OKellyHow to Hire the Right Motivational Speaker
When planning functions for business, most event planners get just how crucial it is to higher the right motivational speakers. Finding the right speaker can be difficult, but planners can take a few steps to simplify their search.
Don't Wait: You know when the event is scheduled, so start searching early. It can take months to plan, research, and evaluate. The best speakers are in high demand and the earlier a speaker is contacted the more likely she can accommodate your request.
What Are Your Intentions: Some planners create an event without. Knowing your event is an annual stockholder's meeting isn't enough. You've got to meet with the executives and find out what they wish to accomplish at the meeting. This makes finding the right speaker that much easier.
Write Down The Objectives: Don't be too vague by just talking about the event. A written list of goals ensures that project planners have to work out all the details. This makes finding the right speaker much more simple.
See Them In Action: Most often, keynote speakers allow potential clients to see them in action via DVD or video. Videos should be of the speaker in action, not delivering lines to a camera in a small group. How does the speaker interact with the group? Pay attention to their comfort level and the relevancy of the material.
Look For Someone Suited To Your Event: You may find an incredible keynote speaker, but if he is known for talking to kids about avoiding drugs and alcohol he may not be the best motivational speaker for a conference on workplace communication. No one is great at everything, so avoid speakers who claim to do it all.
Always Ask Questions: If you iffy about a particular speaker's fit for your event, don't be afraid to ask for more information. Motivational speakers use marketing materials that are phrased in general terms to appeal to a wide variety of clients. Talk to a potential presenter about your event and ask him what he can bring to the table.
: Preplanned agendas are a sign the speaker isn't flexible or good under pressure. Most speakers do work from a collection of scripts, but only as a starting point. Look for someone who will create an original speech to your event and your message instead of some bland generic script.
It can take a lot of effort to find the best fit. But, finding the right speaker can make or break your event's success.
