Selecting the right speaker can make or break the success of an event. The perfect speaker doesn’t just fill a time slot; they set the tone, deliver insight, and leave a lasting impression on your audience. At KBC Speaks, we know that great events start with aligned voices.
If you are a planner, producer, or program manager, here are five key considerations to help you choose a speaker who will elevate your theme, engage your audience, and meet your event goals.
1. Define the Purpose of the Event
Before reaching out to potential speakers, be clear about what success looks like. Are you trying to educate, motivate, entertain, or challenge your audience to think differently? The right speaker will have experience tailoring their message to meet your goals.
Ask yourself:
- What transformation should the audience experience?
- Are we opening or closing the event with this speaker?
- Do we want energy, strategy, vulnerability, or inspiration?
Clarity on your objectives makes the selection process easier and more focused.
2. Align the Speaker’s Expertise with the Event Theme
Too often, planners select a big name without considering whether their message matches the event’s theme. Instead, focus on finding a speaker whose lived experience, industry knowledge, or storytelling aligns directly with your audience’s interests.
For example:
- Hosting a leadership summit? Look for someone with executive experience and a proven leadership framework.
- Organizing a women’s conference? Prioritize speakers who can speak authentically to empowerment, visibility, or work-life balance.
- Planning an innovation session? Consider a speaker who has led transformation or scaled businesses.
Your event theme sets the tone. The speaker brings it to life.
3. Consider the Format and Audience Engagement
Some speakers excel on a large stage. Others shine in interactive formats like fireside chats, panels, or workshops. Consider the tone and structure of your event and select a speaker who thrives in that environment.
Think about:
- Will the audience be seated for long periods?
- Does the session need audience participation or Q&A?
- Is this virtual, in-person, or hybrid?
Choosing a speaker who matches the energy and format of your event creates a more seamless and impactful experience.
4. Review Speaking Footage and Testimonials
Do not rely solely on bios and one-sheets. Watching clips of past speaking engagements can help you assess presence, pacing, relatability, and clarity. Also pay attention to how a speaker engages with different types of audiences.
Look for testimonials from:
- Past event planners
- Attendees in similar industries
- Hosts or moderators who have worked with the speaker
A strong speaker profile includes not just credentials, but also presence and connection.
5. Work with an Agency That Understands Your Vision
A speaker bureau or agency can save time and stress by curating options that fit your goals, budget, and event type. At KBC Speaks, we provide tailored speaker recommendations that reflect your vision, not a generic list. We know how to match audience needs with powerful voices across industries, topics, and formats.
Whether you are booking your first speaker or managing a full-day lineup, our team is here to guide you through the process and ensure your event is memorable for all the right reasons.
Final Thoughts
Booking the right speaker is about more than credentials or charisma. It is about alignment, audience insight, and thoughtful planning. With the right voice, your event can inform, inspire, and leave a lasting impact.
Need help identifying the perfect speaker for your next event?
Contact KBC Speaks to start the conversation. We will help you book someone who does more than speak – they will resonate.