BY REBECCA TAPP
In booking a world-class speaker, it is vital you are armed with the tools to select an expert who meets the specifics of your brief, inspires an audience, all while delivering an engaging presentation onstage. To assist you in speaker selection we have created a hot list to ensure you select the right speaker, with the right message…every time.
THE RIGHT RESEARCH
Finding the best speaker requires research and preparation. To get started it is a great idea to allow yourself plenty of time in the lead up to the event, and to prepare what is called a speaker brief. In that brief, make sure you include the purpose of booking the speaker and outline the problem that needs solving. Write a list of questions. Do you have a thorough understanding of the organisation booking the speaker, the nature of the event, the event theme and audience details? What is your budget, and are there any other parameters that will influence your decision?
“Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose”
- Zora Neale Hurston
THE RIGHT RELATIONSHIP
Once you have completed your research and prepared a clear brief, it is helpful to source an expert to support you in making the right decision. In seeking out a consultant look for someone with credibility, product knowledge, and a commitment to finding you the perfect speaker match. Make time to talk to the consultant on the phone or in person. A great consultant will be your primary support and someone whose opinion you need to trust.
As the Chief of Creative Solutions at Ovations my focus is to uncover what a client needs to solve a problem, create a transition or to transform an audience. I am all about authenticity in my relationships, because I want to really understand how in partnership we can create a magical message
- Rebecca Tapp
THE RIGHT REVIEW
If you are working with a great consultant, you can be assured that they will provide you with a list of relevant speakers. Your proposal should include links to speaker profiles, testimonials and footage of each speaker in action on stage. Ask the consultant to provide you with their personal thoughts as they may offer key insights based on their experience. Share the proposal with your colleagues, ask for feedback and select your top three speakers from the list.
THE RIGHT TO REQUEST
Once you have decided who your top three speakers are you have a right to request further support. It may be helpful to coordinate a phone call with the speakers, or to ask them to prepare a written or video proposal. Through this process, you will get a feel for the style, tone and energy of the speaker in addition to how they will approach your brief. You will find with the support of your consultant this process will reveal who the right speaker is to wow your audience, create a fantastic event, while ensuring you also look like a rock star.
THE RIGHT TO RELAX
Once you have made your decision about which speaker you would like to book it is time to kick back, relax and let your preferred speakers bureau do the work. From contracting, to accounts, logistics to pre-event meetings and promotion, your consultant will provide you everything you need to ensure that your experience of booking a speaker is seamless.
Feel free to ask as many questions as you need especially concerning the contract details. Your consultant is there to support you in understanding all aspects of the booking, and to assist with anything you need from the speaker. Make sure you also ask for additional information on workshops, topics, video programmes and books as these tools are designed to provide ongoing learning long after the event and may be valuable resources post event.
