Hiring a motivational speaker can be a significant investment for your event, conference, or business. But how do you ensure that you are hiring the right person for the job?
By asking the right questions, you can gain valuable insights into a motivational speaker’s experience, expertise, and style. Here are 10 questions to ask before booking a professional speaker:
1. What is your speaking style?
Each motivational speaker has their own unique style and approach to presenting. It’s essential to know if the speaker’s style will be a good fit for your audience and your event.
2. What is your experience with our industry?
If you’re hosting an event within a specific industry, it’s important to hire a motivational speaker who understands that industry. Make sure the speaker has relevant experience and knowledge.
3. Can you customise your presentation to fit our audience?
A great motivational speaker will be able to customise their presentation to meet the specific needs of your audience. For example, even though I speak about similar themes often, every one of my keynote presentations is designed bespoke for your event. Make sure the speaker you hire is willing and able to tailor their content to your event.
4. Can you provide testimonials?
A reputable motivational speaker will be happy to provide testimonials from previous clients. Reach out to these references and ask about the speaker’s professionalism, delivery, and impact on the audience. My agent, Carson White from Leading Voice can provide loads of testimonials and references from people in your industry that have booked me previously to speak.
5. How do you handle audience interaction?
Depending on the event, you may want a speaker who is comfortable engaging with the audience through Q&A sessions or group activities. Ask the speaker how they typically handle audience interaction.
6. What is your pricing structure?
It’s important to understand the speaker’s pricing structure, including fees for travel, accommodation, and other expenses. Make sure there are no surprises when it comes to the final cost. This is another area where it’s great to have Carson White from Leading Voice managing me as my agent. He is your one point of contact for all of the admin, planning, fees, and payment options.
7. How do you prepare for your presentations?
Ask the speaker about their preparation process. A great speaker will spend time researching your audience and industry to deliver a presentation that is both relevant and engaging.
8. Can you provide examples of past presentations?
Reviewing past presentations is a great way to get a sense of the motivational speaker’s style and content. Ask for video clips or testimonials from previous clients, or check out their YouTube Channel.
9. What are your expectations of us as the event host?
A motivational speaker will have expectations of the event host, such as providing certain equipment or arranging for travel accommodations. Make sure you understand these expectations and can meet them.
10. What sets you apart from other motivational speakers?
Finally, ask the speaker what makes them unique. A great speaker will have a clear understanding of their value proposition and be able to articulate it clearly.
In conclusion, hiring a motivational speaker is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By asking these 10 questions, you can gain valuable insights into a speaker’s experience, expertise, and style, and make an informed decision that will lead to a successful event or conference.
