How do you choose a keynote speaker that aligns with your conference theme and goals?

1 Define your objectives

Before you start looking for a speaker, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your conference. What is the purpose, vision, and mission of your event? What are the key takeaways and outcomes you want your attendees to have? How do you want them to feel, think, and act after listening to the speaker? By defining your objectives, you can narrow down your search and focus on speakers who can help you meet them.

2 Research your audience

Another important factor to consider is your audience. Who are they, what are their interests, challenges, and expectations? What kind of speaker would appeal to them, engage them, and motivate them? How familiar are they with your conference topic and theme? How much do they need to learn or change? By researching your audience, you can choose a speaker who can connect with them, address their needs, and deliver value.

3 Match your theme

Your keynote speaker should also match your conference theme and message. Your theme is the central idea or concept that ties your event together and guides your content and activities. Your speaker should be able to relate to your theme, support it, and expand on it. For example, if your theme is innovation, you might look for a speaker who has experience in creating or implementing innovative solutions, or who can share insights and best practices on how to foster a culture of innovation.

4 Check their credibility

Once you have a shortlist of potential speakers, you need to check their credibility and reputation. How well-known and respected are they in their field or industry? What are their credentials, qualifications, and achievements? How do they demonstrate their expertise and authority? How do they communicate their ideas and stories? You can check their credibility by looking at their website, social media, testimonials, reviews, portfolio, and previous speaking engagements. You can also ask for referrals or recommendations from other event organizers or colleagues.

5 Evaluate their style

Another aspect to evaluate is their style and personality. How do they present themselves, interact with the audience, and handle questions and feedback? What is their tone, pace, and energy level? Are they humorous, serious, provocative, or inspirational? Do they use visuals, stories, examples, or data to support their points? How do they adapt to different situations and contexts? You can evaluate their style by watching their videos, podcasts, interviews, or live events. You can also contact them directly and have a conversation or a consultation.

6 Negotiate the terms

Finally, once you have decided on your speaker, you need to negotiate the terms and conditions of their engagement. This includes the fees, expenses, contract, deliverables, expectations, and logistics. You need to be clear and transparent about what you can offer and what you expect from them. You also need to communicate regularly and effectively with them before, during, and after the event. You need to provide them with relevant information, feedback, and support to ensure a smooth and successful collaboration.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?