How to Choose the Right Keynote Speaker for Your Event
The opening keynote sets the tone for the entire conference.
No pressure, right?
When choosing the right keynote speaker for your event, there are a few things to keep in mind:
The most essential starting point is to understand and tune into your audience. Put yourself in their shoes: Why are people attending your event, and what do they want to take away from it? Make sure you’re considering speakers who are relevant to the theme, intention, and energy of the conference and use that to guide your research.
Your keynote speaker(s) should offer something unique, something with an optimistic vision and a good story behind it. Make sure they’re on the front lines of their subject matter, not just sharing other people’s work. Consider what presentation style and personality would work best.
You could even consider working with them on the content and script to ensure it fits your needs and speaks to your audience. Long story, short: Be specific and intentional with your pick. Go beyond “motivational speaker” and hone in on what it is you want people to experience from this speech.
Choosing the right keynote speaker can also play into your marketing strategy. If you get someone with notoriety in your industry, it will draw people in and you can use their name to your advantage. Entertainment Exchange has access to several experienced keynote speakers – both of celebrity and thought-leader status.
And we’d be remiss to say that a great keynote speaker won’t land if the stage, sound, and lighting isn’t solid. These supplemental (but essential) elements can significantly enhance the environment so don’t let them fly under the radar.
P.S. If you need help with lighting, A/V or production, Entertainment Exchange will use our expertise to put together the best event package for your needs.