Organizing an event, whether it's a conference, a manager seminar, or a team building activity, involves setting up a number of parameters. Some tasks are particularly enjoyable, while others are a bit more complex. Indeed, recruiting the speakers who will play a role during your event isn't the simplest of tasks. That's why we've decided to share our little secrets with you for identifying and recruiting the best speakers, those who will make your conferences unforgettable.
Choosing my speaker: How not to make a mistake?
It's not always easy to determine which speaker will best suit your event. To simplify this process, here are some essential criteria to consider:
- Start by clearly establishing the objective of your event. From this foundation, you'll be better able to identify the most suitable speaker. Similarly, don't forget to qualify your audience; this will allow your speaker to tailor their speech accordingly.
- Estimating the cost of your event is crucial. The choice of speaker must align with budget constraints. While it's true that inviting Bill Gates to your event as a speaker will likely encourage your audience to attend, his hourly rate may exceed the budget you've allocated.
- Event formats vary considerably. Some speakers prefer longer presentations, while others opt for more concise speeches, akin to TED talks. It's essential that the speaker's style matches the format you've chosen. Once these elements are in place, you can begin searching for suitable speakers.
5 Qualities Your Speakers Absolutely Must Have
Communication Mastery
A good speaker must not only have relevant knowledge but also the ability to express themselves fluently and clearly. Awkward communication can seriously compromise the impact of the presentation.
Dynamism and Engaging Ability
In addition to clear expression, your speaker must know how to captivate the audience's attention. Monotonous monologues should be avoided in favor of dynamic and engaging speeches that ignite the audience's enthusiasm.
Originality
The speaker should align with the theme of the event while bringing their personal touch. Opt for a personality capable of challenging conventions and offering an original perspective. A good speaker can convey ideas emotionally while diversifying their expression.
Open-mindedness and Debating Skills
A good speaker must share their expertise during workshops or conferences but also be open to debate. Interaction with the audience is essential to maintain interest, and it's important that the speaker can handle divergent opinions calmly and respectfully.
Personal Presentation
While this criterion is less crucial than the others, the appearance and style of the speaker play a role in the audience's perception. Someone who stands by their ideas, both in speech and appearance, can enhance the impact of their presentation.
How to Convince Speakers to Participate in the Event?
Once you have identified the perfect speakers for your event, the next step is to convince them to participate.
Here's how to proceed:
- Highlight the benefits of your event, such as visibility, reputation, and networking opportunities.
- Present these benefits in detail and persuasively to your potential targets.
- Be prepared to negotiate or offer benefits while respecting specific regulations for certain professions.
As you can see, choosing a good speaker is a crucial element for the success of your event. In summary, start by clearly defining your objectives, audience, and budget. Then, choose a speaker considering their skills and style. Finally, present the benefits of your event convincingly and be prepared to negotiate if necessary. With this approach, you'll be on the path to success... Nothing too complicated for the excellent event organizer that you are. 😉
