Hot Talk BACK

Testing, testing 1,2,3 – are you hip to the hot topics set to hit speakers' podiums this upcoming conference season?

Of all the details a planner needs to put into play, matchmaking a keynote speaker and topic with the event's objectives can often be the most daunting elements to nail. The best approach, however, is to begin with the end.

Define your objectives and how a speaker and message fit not only into your overall event, but also how they add value to the experience you are attempting to deliver. Do you need a big name to attract attendance, or an expert to address a specific subject? Are you looking for substance and style, inspiration and education, or information wrapped in a form of entertainment?

This year, the issue of trust is proving to be a hot button as society searches for respite and reassurance from a half-decade of unpredictable turmoil: from terrorism to corporate scandal, from bursting stock market bubbles to rising concern of infectious diseases. As the dust begins to settle on such unprecedented change, individuals and businesses are looking to restore their sense of trust and heighten likeability, whether it be in brand building, leadership or creating an exceptional workplace.

Hand-in-hand with the trust theme are wellness topics aimed at the personal level. Now that reality has hit that we live and work in an increasingly fast and unbalanced world, we are beginning to realize the key to success is really all about sustainable high-performance. For guidance, search out speakers who can address the issue of achieving that ultimate work-life balance with emphasis on ways to achieve success without burnout.

What the future holds is always a magnetic subject, especially in the area of trends: How to set 'em and how to ride 'em. In particular, the lightning speed of today's technology is having a huge impact on business, sending the corporate world scrambling to keep up with the ever-changing rules for strategizing and managing. Look for speakers who can help sift through the growing avalanche of information in painting the big picture.

Celebrities are still effective draws, revving up a program and enticing attendees with their star-powered personas. Olympic athletes and other famous personalities with experiential tales of personal best inspire audience members. This includes successful business leaders who have been “in the trenches” and can offer a wealth of expertise in managing and motivating the troops and meeting customer expectations.

Speaker Know-how In determining the best speaker for the job, ask for personal referrals from colleagues and hook up with professional speakers bureaus who will locate and book talent according to your specifications and needs. Here are a few other tips from our speaking industry experts:
Preview and Interview: Obtain tapes or attend a live session of potential speakers, then arrange a one-on-one with shortlist choices. A quality pro will ask questions about your audience's needs and offer ideas on how they can tailor the presentation to your group.	Contract Details: Avoid surprises (and charges) with a written contract outlining expectations including payment terms, travel and accommodation arrangements, required attendance at social events, taping of the presentation and whether the speaker may sell products on-site.	Set the Stage: Hey, even dynamic speakers can always use a little help in the showbiz department, so set the room and stage for optimum impact and audience interest.