Finding the perfect speaker for your upcoming corporate meeting or event is akin to finding just the right spark to ignite a room full of potential. It’s not only about charisma, interesting insights and perspective, and an engaging stage presence. It’s all of those and one more thing … resonance.
The right voice delivering the right message at just the right time can transform a gathering of like-minded people into a powerful movement. A truly effective speaker inspires actions where once there was hesitation, and turns simple words into powerful motivation, momentum and results.
Whether you’re rallying a sports team, energizing a corporate crowd, or simply lighting a fire in just one heart, the right speaker doesn’t just speak to your audience — they speak for them, with them, and straight to the core of what drives them. That’s what I mean by resonance.
So, what’s the secret to finding this type of person and transforming your next event into a remarkable experience? Let’s take a look at the seven critical steps:
Know Your Audience
I know, I know. I seem to have an amazing grasp of the obvious but you’d be shocked at how many speakers turn out to be duds. Not that they’re incapable or unskilled, simply because they weren’t properly vetted and weren’t able to establish that all-important connection. [Think blind date gone bad. Nice person but not the right fit.]
Before anything, know your audience. Inside and out then back again.
- What are the group demographics – age range, median age, gender breakdown, experience level, sophistication, creatives or business conservatives, etc.?
- What are their keenest interests and where are their “hot buttons”, those connecting points where a message morphs into motivation?
- What isn’t right in their world at this point in time? How should it be addressed? What’s your ideal outcome for your group?
- What tone works best for them – soft, direct, humorous, dead-ass serious?
Clearly Identify and Understand Your Event Goals
Ask yourself: “Do you want to inspire action?” … “Encourage change?” … “Boost morale?” … “Educate or entertain?” A great speaker can do all of the above, but knowing your top priorities will help you filter who’s right for the job.
Match The Speaker’s Key Messaging and Experiences with Your Organization’s Story
Like the right and perfect pairing of wine with an entrée, the most memorable, effective and in-demand speakers are able to bridge their powerful message with your group’s compelling story. That could include overcoming adversity, building a business from scratch, leading a movement, sustaining and elevating recent success, etc.
When you share your organization’s story with the speaker in advance, they are able to pull from their trove of personal anecdotes and examples that illuminate and amplify your business priorities, goals and objectives. Authentic storytelling is priceless and makes ideas “stick”. In a word, the speaker’s presentation resonates with your audience.
Watch Them in Action
It’s entirely appropriate to request the opportunity to witness first-hand your speaking candidate doing their thing. Don’t just rely on bios or one-pagers. At the very least, ask for demo reels but understand, it’s a demo reel so only their finest moments are being showcased.
Pay attention to matters like the level of audience engagement, commanding stage presence, how he or she unveils key messaging then builds on it as the presentation goes on and truly lands the dismount. Before going to contract, be sure the speaker’s “vibe” – their presence and their tone — matches your event’s energy and needs.
Consider the Needed Interaction Style
Some speakers energize from the stage, others want to roam and immerse themselves in the audience. Many others are most effective when cast as part of a Town Hall-style Q&A session, on a panel, or in a smaller, workshop setting. Do you want someone to “drop the mic”, as they say and WOW! your group, or are you seeking someone who can spark an open conversation? Ask yourself these questions then slot the speaker where they will be most effective.
Carefully Consider All Logistics
Double-check the speaker’s availability, allowing yourself enough time to factor in unexpected delays [i.e., weather, flight delays, traffic, etc.]. To be more confident and relaxed, consider having the speaker arrive the day before their scheduled presentation and have them mingle in a social setting with your group the evening before. It will cost you extra but the peace-of-mind and getting-to-know-you opportunity will likely offset any incremental dollars.
Also consider things like the speaker’s “all-in” budget including professional fees, travel, lodging, meals, special needs, etc. Further, double- and triple-check their audio-visual support needs, length of presentation, logistics related to book sales, availability for photos, even a possible spontaneous request to join a later session and facilitate a discussion.
Trust the Fit
Now, the “heavy lifting” is done. You’ve researched and finalized your selection and gone to contract. It’s time to trust your instincts and your efforts. When a speaker senses true excitement on the part of the planner and/or executive staff, they feed off that energy and that translates to a turbo-charged presentation that resonates with your group … just the kind you were looking for!
Final Thoughts
In recent months, the dynami team has had wonderful success working with several speakers who were able to connect and inspire the audience, and please the company’s executive leadership.
Mike Rowe – The star of television and stage captivated our group with his unique blend of humor, authenticity, and profound insights on work ethic and opportunity. His key message, flowing from practical wisdom, personal experience and good ol’ fashion grit, was powerful. Not everybody is willing to do the dirtiest of jobs but Mike Rowe finds dignity in every kind of work. And you should always be proud of your efforts.
Dan Thurmon — A Hall of Fame keynote renowned for dynamic presentations that blend acrobatics and powerful storytelling to inspire audiences. Dan is particularly adept at tailoring his presentation to address a group’s real-world business challenges, and sharing ways to overcome obstacles and make the seemingly impossible … possible. His personal philosophy is “performing while transforming” and he brings that message alive the moment he hits the stage.
Alex Honnold — Known for his historic free solo ascent of El Capitan, Alex captivated our audience by sharing insights into mastering one’s craft, the need for meticulous preparation, and managing fear under extreme pressure. His presentation included rich and sometimes breath-taking visuals from his various climbs, and he delivered key lessons on managing risk and cultivating mental resilience. Beyond his climbing achievements, Alex’s commitment to sustainability through the Honnold Foundation underscores his dedication to inspiring others to pursue excellence while contributing to the greater good.
John O’Leary – John’s story is nothing shy of head-shaking remarkable. Burned over 100% of his body as a child … his parents being told to prepare for the worst … then his unbelievable fight to survive and thrive is simply amazing and highlights a triumph of will and a determined human spirit. He has written two bestselling books, On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life anda follow-up, In Awe. A full-length feature film entitled Soul on Fire is based on his first book and scheduled for release on October 10th. John’s presentation inspires and empowers audiences to embrace resilience, rediscover joy, and unlock their full potential. He was so well-received in our recent program that dynami booked him again for another client.
If you’re looking to ignite a roomful of potential at your upcoming meeting or event, do your homework. Trust me, it will pay great dividends. Or let dynami do the homework for you. We’re only a call, text or email away!
Cheers,
Kenneth Jones
