|
TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT GUEST SPEAKER
Your speaker selection is one of the most important elements in a
successful meeting. Selecting the right speaker for your meeting can be
a daunting task, as speakers are available in every fee range and
specialty topic. The National Speakers Association, comprised of more
than 3,000 professional speakers, has compiled these tips to help make
your meeting a success.
1.
Determine the needs of your audience
Thorough knowledge of the needs of your group is essential in selecting
the right guest speaker. Does your meeting require that the audience leave
with specific or technical information? Do you need someone to motivate
the group to sell? Are you looking for after-dinner entertainment with a
message?
2.
Establish your date, time and budget
·
Start looking for a speaker as soon as the date for your meeting is set.
Many guest speakers book engagements up to a year in advance and you will want
to get on their calendar as soon as possible.
·
Consider how much time you have to fill and where that time falls in
your overall program. If your time slot is flexible, a professional
speaker can often tell you the right amount of time for the job. A
professional can also make recommendations about the order of
topics/speakers if one presentation will follow another. (You may not
want to follow a humorist with a detailed educational presentation.)
·
Factor in the fee you are willing or able to pay for a speaker. Your
search for a speaker can be narrowed or broadened based upon your
budget.
3.
Identify the type of speaker who will best match the needs of your
audience
A speaker's expertise in a given field may be the big draw, but a
well-known name does not guarantee a professional presentation. High
prices don't always mean high quality. Will your audience and the
overall program benefit most from a celebrity; an expert in the field; a
popular sports personality; a best-selling author; or a professional
speaker who has a thorough knowledge of the appropriate topic?
4.
Locate your resources
·
Personal referrals are a great way to narrow your search. Ask colleagues
for recommendations.
· Speakers
bureaus locate and book speakers according to your specifications and
needs. A bureau can locate speakers and quote fees. Many bureaus
specialize in particular speakers such as celebrities, authors or
athletes.
5.
Review your options and interview your speaker candidates
·
A professional speaker will be a real partner in this process. Often
they will ask questions about the needs of your audience and what they
can accomplish for you. Ask your candidates for references and, if they
are speaking in your area, ask if you can attend the program and observe
them in action.
·
Assure that a potential speaker has addressed groups similar to yours.
Talk with them about their experience. Ask for a biography, testimonials
and videos of their presentations, preferably before a live audience.
·
Find a speaker who will tailor his or her presentation to your group.
·
Ask the speaker if they belong to professional associations. Also ask
what awards or certifications they have earned. The National Speakers
Association's designation is the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP).
The CSP is earned for extended speaking experience and client
satisfaction.
6.
Select your speaker
·
Hire a professional and you'll hire an ally. Professional speakers
understand that your reputation is riding on their performance. Their
experience with hundreds of audiences can add to your peace of mind and
to the success of the event.
·
When selecting your speaker, consider that you are not only paying for
the time the speaker is on the platform but also for the hours spent
researching, preparing and customizing the presentation. Some guest speakers
may negotiate their fees when they are doing more than one program for
you or when they are allowed to sell their products. Ask about your
options.
7. Get
it in writing
You should have a letter of agreement or contract that clearly outlines
the expectations of both you and your speaker. Consider:
·
travel arrangements and transportation;
·
accommodations and meals;
·
fees, reimbursements and payment terms;
·
whether you want the speaker to attend social events;
·
if the speaker may sell products;
·
an agreement on any audio- or videotaping of the presentation;
·
cancellation policies;
·
audio/visual requirements;
·
and legal implications, if any, your contract may contain.
8. Work with your speaker
Share information about your group or company. This will help the
speaker become familiar with your organization, while facilitating a
customized presentation.
· Send
your newsletter or anything which would include key people, buzz words
or insider news and views.
·
Give the speaker a clear outline of what you expect.
·
Be specific about the size and demographics of your audience.
·
Let the guest speaker know in advance about other speakers on the program.
This gives the speaker the opportunity to build on (and not duplicate)
what the other speakers say.
9. Set
the stage
·
Make sure the room is set up for optimum impact. Consider the number of
chairs and how they are arranged. Also consider room temperature and
lighting.
·
Stay on schedule. Although a professional will be able to "make up" time
or slow things down if needed, keeping your program on schedule will
allow your audience to get the full impact of the program you have
created for them.
·
Your speaker should be able to provide you with a good introduction of
themselves and their topic. The introduction should be short, energizing
and create positive expectations.
10.
Evaluate the results
Have your audience complete evaluations on the speaker and his/her
presentation. This will allow you to gauge your results and plan for
future programs. Send copies of the evaluations to your guest speaker.
* This article is care of National Speakers Association - USA. With thanks.
|
