How to Hire a Keynote Speaker: A Helpful Primer for First-Time Bookers
Booking a keynote speaker for your event can feel like a high-stakes decision. Whether you’re organizing a corporate retreat, an industry conference, or a private event for your organization, or planning conferences, meetings, or other large-scale events, the right speaker can set the tone, inspire your audience, and make your event unforgettable. Professional keynote speakers bring entertainment, communication expertise, and talent to a wide range of events, ensuring your gathering is both engaging and memorable. But if you’ve never booked a speaker before—or only do it occasionally—how do you know where to start?
As a professional keynote speaker and entertainer who has shared the stage with military leaders, Fortune 500 executives, and global audiences, including CEOs, presidents, and managing directors, I’ve seen firsthand what makes for a successful speaker engagement. The importance of well-crafted presentations and effective communication cannot be overstated in creating a lasting impact.
This guide offers a practical, honest look at best practices for hiring a keynote speaker—and how to find speakers for your event today, whether you need a professional keynote speaker for a conference, meeting, or other events—whether it’s me, one of the incredible speakers I admire, or someone else entirely.
Introduction: What Makes a Great Keynote Speaker?
A great keynote speaker is more than just a presenter—they are the spark that ignites your event and leaves a lasting impression on every attendee. The perfect speaker knows how to captivate an audience, blending engaging storytelling with actionable insights that inspire and motivate. Whether you’re seeking a motivational speaker to boost morale, a business speaker to share industry expertise, or a thought leader to chart a new path forward, the right keynote speaker can transform your event from ordinary to unforgettable. Their ability to connect, engage, and inspire ensures your audience walks away energized and ready to apply what they’ve learned, making your event a true success.
1. Know Your “Why” Before You Search
Start by asking: What do I want the audience to walk away with?
Do you want your people to feel inspired? Laugh out loud? Gain actionable tools? Feel emotionally recharged? The more clearly you define your goals, the better your speaker can deliver an experience that aligns. Finding the perfect keynote speaker ensures your guests are engaged and inspired, making the event memorable and impactful.
For example, my most requested keynote, “Your Work Matters,” was born from a desire to help people in high-burnout industries reconnect to purpose. Sharing stories of overcoming adversity can motivate and teach audiences new strategies for success. I use stories, powerful visuals, and world-class sleight of hand to create moments that drive home big ideas. It’s been a powerful fit for healthcare workers, educators, and frontline teams, as well as teams in marketing and other fast-paced industries, who need a reminder that what they do makes a difference.
“Great program! We enjoyed having you and heard good responses from the employees.”
2. Types of Speakers: Finding the Right Fit
When planning your event, it’s important to recognize that not all speakers are the same. Motivational speakers specialize in inspiring audiences to overcome adversity and embrace new challenges, while business speakers bring deep expertise in leadership, management, and industry trends. Guest speakers and presenters can offer fresh perspectives or specialized knowledge tailored to your event’s theme. To find the perfect speaker for your event, consider your audience’s interests and the goals you want to achieve. A reputable speakers bureau, like Executive Speakers Bureau, can help you navigate the options, connecting you with keynote speakers, professional speakers, or industry thought leaders who will engage your audience and make your event memorable. By choosing the right type of speaker, you ensure your event delivers maximum impact and value.
3. Consider the Speaker’s Delivery Style
Some speakers are strategic thinkers. Others are entertainers. Some are data-driven. Others lead from the heart. Ideally, you want someone whose style fits your audience as well as their message.
I bring a unique combination of motivational storytelling, clean comedy, and high-level magic—a blend that’s both emotionally resonant and unforgettable. But depending on your audience, you may also want to look at others I admire:
Kindra Hall – Recognized as one of the best keynote speakers in the field, she is a storytelling expert who teaches how to harness the power of narrative in business and leadership.
Julius Solaris – A futurist and event industry thought leader with cutting-edge insights and dry wit.
Mel Robbins – Dynamic, direct, and emotionally honest, and the author of best selling books. She’s great for organizations looking to jumpstart personal accountability.
Jason Hewlett – Hilarious, high-energy, and deeply professional, Jason weaves leadership lessons with spot-on musical impersonations.
Each of these speakers brings a unique perspective. What matters most is alignment with your culture, tone, and objectives.
4. Watch Video. Lots of It.
A speaker’s sizzle reel is their highlight reel. It’s a start—but don’t stop there. Look for longer footage of a full keynote or uninterrupted clips. Pay attention to how the speaker connects with the audience. Are they engaging? Do they make complex ideas easy to understand? Can you imagine them holding the attention of your group?
You can find videos of my keynotes on my website, or I’m happy to send examples tailored to your type of event. Whether it’s a conference ballroom or an intimate leadership retreat, the delivery matters—and I make sure each performance fits the room.
5. Ask About Customization
The best speakers don’t deliver cookie-cutter talks. They customize.
When I speak on resilience, for example, I tailor my message to the specific challenges your people face—whether it’s burnout in nursing, stress in public safety, or pressure in the C-suite. My goal is to make every attendee feel like the talk was written for them.
When talking to any speaker, ask:
Do they interview leadership or survey attendees in advance?
Will they tailor their content to your industry or team culture?
Can they incorporate your theme or mission statement?
“Total success. It was great hearing the feedback and excitement from our clients. Rave reviews from our staff as well.”
6. Understand What’s Included
Pricing can vary widely, and it’s important to understand what’s included beyond the speech. A top-tier keynote speaker is often a partner in your event’s success, not just a performer.
For example, when you book me, I offer:
A pre-event planning call to align on goals and logistics
A customized keynote (not off-the-shelf)
Professional-grade performance, tech-ready delivery, and adaptable stage presence
Optional breakout session or meet-and-greet add-ons
Follow-up engagement (for clients interested in longer-term impact)
Make sure to ask what’s included—some speakers may also offer books, VIP dinners, or additional workshops.
7. Understanding Speaker Fees and Costs
When hiring a keynote speaker, understanding the range of fees and costs involved is essential for effective event planning. Speaker fees can vary significantly based on the speaker’s reputation, experience, and the demand for their expertise. Some speakers charge a flat rate, while others may adjust their fees depending on the size of your audience or the length of the presentation. Don’t forget to factor in additional expenses such as travel, accommodation, and any special requirements for the presentation. Working with a speakers bureau can help clarify what’s included in the fee and ensure you get the best value for your investment. With that said, many excellent and reputable speakers are happy to book directly with you and forego working with an agent or a speakers bureau. By being clear about your budget and expectations, you can secure a keynote speaker who will deliver a powerful presentation and make your event a success.
8. Red Flags to Watch Out for
Selecting the right keynote speaker is crucial, but it’s just as important to recognize potential red flags during your search. Be cautious of speakers who are slow to respond, lack professionalism, or have limited experience in their claimed area of expertise. Poor reviews or weak references can signal issues with reliability or effectiveness. Watch out for speakers who focus more on self-promotion than on your event’s needs, or who use aggressive sales tactics. By staying alert to these warning signs, you protect your audience and your event’s reputation.
9. Book Early, Especially for Busy Seasons
Many top speakers book months (sometimes a year or more) in advance—especially for popular seasons like spring and fall. With a wide range of speakers for hire available, it's important to secure your preferred choice early to ensure the best fit for your event. If you have a specific date in mind, start the conversation early.
Still looking for the right fit? I’m always happy to jump on a short discovery call—even if you’re early in the planning process. If I’m not available or the right fit, I’ll gladly recommend a few others from my trusted network.
10. Post-Event Follow-up
The impact of a great keynote speaker doesn’t end when the applause fades. After your event, it’s important to follow up with both your speaker and your audience. Gathering feedback through surveys or evaluations helps you measure the success of your event and identify opportunities for improvement. Connecting with your speaker after the event can strengthen your professional relationship and open doors for future collaborations or referrals. Whether you worked with a motivational speaker, a business speaker, or another professional, a thoughtful post-event follow-up ensures your audience remains inspired and your event leaves a lasting impression. A trusted speakers bureau can also assist in this process, helping you find the perfect speaker for your next event and ensuring continued success for your organization.
“Your time with this group was spot on. It couldn’t have been more meaningful.”
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About a Speech. It’s About an Experience.
A great keynote speaker doesn’t just fill time on a schedule. They shift the emotional energy in a room. They spark momentum that carries into breakout sessions, strategy meetings, or the rest of the year.
If you’re looking for someone who can inspire, engage, and leave a lasting impression, I’d be honored to be part of your event.
Let’s make it unforgettable.
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