At Key Speakers Bureau, a WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprise, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service to our clients. To help you get the most out of your booking experience, our expert team shares insider tips for booking speakers with ease and maximizing impact.
Did you know Key Speakers is proudly certified as a women-owned and operated company? Partner with us and experience the dedication and expertise of a WBENC-certified team committed to supporting your event goals.
Start with a Clear Budget and Timeline
We asked Kelli Y., VP of Operations, what clients can do to set themselves up for a successful speaker search. Her advice? Start by setting a clear budget and timeline – “Clearly define your budget so that you can receive speaker options within reach. Begin the booking process at least three months before your event date to ensure your desired speaker is available. Six months before is ideal, as popular speakers can book up well in advance.”
Be Transparent About Your Objectives
Bayli M., one of our valued Account Advisors, emphasizes the importance of transparency. When asked how clients can help us make the best recommendations, she explained: “The more transparent you are about your internal process, speaker objectives, and audience, the more effective your bureau partner can be at recommending the most fitting speakers for your event.”
Work with One Dedicated Bureau for a Smoother Experience
Account Advisor, Katie C., provided insight into why working with one bureau from start to finish simplifies the booking process. When asked why clients should avoid using multiple bureaus, she shared: “There is really no reason to shop around for bureaus. Working with one bureau from start to finish is much more efficient for you. Speaker’s bureaus use standard fee structures that are similar from one bureau to the next, so partnering with just one bureau partner will save you time, and will give you a dedicated team to handle everything seamlessly—making the whole booking process easier and more reliable.” Our bureau brings decades of industry connections, handling all the details so you can focus on what matters most.
Communicate Details Early and Stay Open to New Ideas
Shayran C., Event Specialist, offered her perspective on how clear communication and flexibility go a long way in the speaker booking process. She recommends sharing specific details about your event and being open to suggestions – “Clearly explain your audience, event format, and key objectives. Be open to alternatives—we often suggest similar speakers who may bring unexpected value and flexibility to your event.”
Take Advantage of a Bureau’s Broad Access and Expertise
Industry expert and Account Advisor, Laurie I. shared her thoughts on the unique advantages of partnering with a speaker bureau. When we asked her what clients might not realize about working with a bureau, she noted: “The best part of working with a bureau is that we have access to ANY and ALL speakers. We’re your partner from start to finish, making the booking process seamless and handling all issues, so you’re free to focus on other event elements.” Some speakers prefer to keep their speaking details private. If you’re eager to book a specific personality, just reach out—we’re here to help!
Trust in Expert Speaker Vetting
Wendy H., Account Advisor, weighed in on the importance of having a bureau handle speaker vetting. She emphasized that clients can feel confident knowing we’re continually reviewing speaker options for quality and fit. “Key Speakers is constantly vetting speakers, so you don’t have to. We’ve got your back throughout the entire speaker selection process, making you look great to your audience and stakeholders!”
With these insights from our team, partnering with a WBENC-certified bureau like Key Speakers means more than just booking a speaker—it’s about ensuring a seamless, impactful experience from start to finish. We’re here to help you find the right speaker and make your event unforgettable. Reach out to us to get started!
Your annual sales kickoff is a chance to start the year strong, and finding the right motivational speaker can be an essential catalyst for success. By focusing on your team’s needs and seeking out speakers with a blend of inspiration and practical insight, the stage will be set for a year of stellar sales attitude and growth.
Understand your audience’s needs
Before diving into the speaker search, ask yourself what your team truly needs at this moment. Are they facing burnout and need a morale boost? Consider Colette Carlson‘s motivational talk: “YOU Management: Strategies to Avoid Burnout, Boost Resilience, and Accelerate Success”
Look for expertise in sales or business growth
A speaker like Alex Banayan, with a proven track record in sales or business growth will be relatable to your audience. You want a speaker who can offer tangible, actionable strategies that your team can apply in real time!
Prioritize motivation with practical takeaways
While inspiration is key, it’s equally important that your speaker offers practical tools and techniques. In Crystal Washington’s keynote, “NextGen Sales Connections: The Future’s Tech-Powered Growth Strategies”, your team will learn how to harness emerging technologies to enhance sales processes and connections.
Check out their engagement style
How a speaker delivers their message is just as important as the content itself. Do they engage with the audience through interactive elements? Known for his interactive presentations, Riaz Meghji engages audiences through dynamic elements such as real-time audience participation & thought-provoking questions.
Get a sense of their reputation
Tara Renze is known for delivering impactful and memorable presentations, and consistently leaving a lasting impression. Her reputation is also backed by numerous positive testimonials, making her quite a sought-after speaker. Make sure you do your homework when exploring speakers by watching videos of previous talks and reading reviews from other clients.
Consider the right fit for your company culture
Finally, ensure the speaker aligns with your company’s values and culture. A speaker who “gets” your industry, knows your audience, and can tailor their message to your team will always deliver an impactful event. Click here to explore more Sales Strategy Speakers.
So, are you ready to book the speaker who can make a difference at your next sales kickoff? Let’s start the conversation and find your perfect match!
Thinking about hiring a speaker for an event but you’re just not sure how much it will cost? Key Speakers Bureau makes it easy by helping you find and hire keynote speakers, negotiate the most favorable terms and coordinate logistics. With nearly 30 years of experience, we’re here to help you understand the factors to consider when hiring a speaker for your event:
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
Generally, speakers charge a speaking fee per speaking engagement (not per minute, not per hour).
Is it less expensive to hire a speaker for a virtual event than for an in-person event?
Typically a virtual speaking event (either to a live audience or via a pre-recorded speech) will cost 10-50% less than their fee to travel to an in-person event.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
The fee quote provided by a speaker is typically based on a standard 60-minute keynote speech or moderated conversation. If you are looking for a speaker to deliver only a 15-minute speech, the fee will most likely still be the same. If you’re requesting the speaker to participate in a morning speech, and then another speech in the evening, this could be considered a full day event and may incur a 1.5-2x fee increase.
What other types of activities will speakers participate in and how much will it cost?
Beyond delivering a standard keynote talk, many speakers are happy to participate in other formats and activities to help you get the most out of their appearance at your event. In addition to delivering a speech, you can hire many speakers for: half-day and full-day training and workshops, breakout sessions, meet and greets, Q&A’s, panel discussions, emcee and event moderation, or marketing activities in addition to a speaking opportunity. Some speakers will even promote your event on their social media channels or create a marketing video that you can send to attendees to amp up excitement and drive ticket sales.
Sometimes speakers are happy to participate in these additional activities as part of their standard fee and other times this will increase their fee depending on the type and length of the activity. Please mention all desired activities to our Key Speakers Bureau team so we can facilitate your requests to keep in mind when suggesting speakers and negotiating your contract.
Do non-profits or schools receive discounts on speaker fees?
A few speakers have different rates for non-profit organizations or educational institutions but this can vary. Our team will request specific pricing once we know more about your event and your top choices for speakers.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
Not as much as you would think. Whether your audience consists of 20 or 500 people, this usually doesn’t affect their fee. However, if the event is to be live-streamed to a large audience across multiple regions or recorded for future use, it is more likely the speaker will charge a premium. It is important to let your agent know about recording intentions early in the ideation process, as many speakers do not allow recording or replay, and if they do, they often have guidelines around how recording can be used and for how long they can be saved.
Travel expenses and other costs
Traditionally, travel expenses are quoted separately from the speaking fee. How speakers handle their travel and expenses vary, but normally the client pays for the speaker’s airfare, hotel, ground transportation, meals and incidentals. The speaker usually books their own airfare and home-city ground transportation while the client books ground transportation in the event city and hotel accommodation.
Here are the three primary ways travel expenses are handled:
1) Speaker invoicing – Some speakers are happy to book all or part of their own travel expenses and then invoice the client for expenses incurred leading up to and during the event.
2) Travel buyouts – Most speakers prefer travel buyouts which range from $1,000 to $5,000. The buyout covers origin ground transportation and flights. If you are booking a high-profile speaker, it is possible this will be much larger due to private jet expenses, hair and makeup, travel companion expenses, etc.
3) Travel is included in the quoted speaking fee – Although less common, there are some speakers who handle their own travel and will include these expenses in their quoted speaking fee.
Here is an example of a standard travel and expense requirement: $2,000 travel buyout in addition to the appearance fee to cover airfare, home-city ground transportation, meals and incidentals. Client to book and pay for hotel accommodation and professional event-city ground transportation.
Deposits and securing a booking
Some speakers have their own unique payment requirements. However, the industry standard is: If the event is taking place within one month of booking, the full balance will be due soon after signing the agreement. If the event is happening a few months out, a 50% deposit will be requested along with the signed agreement, and the balance is due at least two weeks before the event.
What speakers can I afford with my budget?
There are many entry-level speakers who are eager to give an excellent hands-on keynote for under $10,000. However, this fee range will typically not get you a world-renowned, seasoned motivational speaker. If your budget is less than $10,000 but you want a higher caliber of speakers to choose from, you can consider booking a speaker for a virtual or pre-recorded speaking engagement to cut down on costs.
If you have a budget of $15,000 to $100,000, this is a sweet spot to be able to hire a speaker with notoriety who is accessible and hands-on for your event. Most great speakers are happy to join a planning call and customize their talk to your unique goals.
Speakers who have a household name and who are considered celebrities rarely consider in-person speaking offers for less than $100,000 plus travel expenses. Speakers with a fee greater than this amount typically prioritize their primary career for which they are famous, and need more incentive to take on speaking invitations due to high demand. (think the Obamas, Tony Robbins, Oprah, Brene Brown, etc.)
Additional tips and takeaways
• Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees. Virtual speaking rates can be 10-50% cheaper than in person rates.
• There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
• Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
• When browsing our speakers, it’s easy to see where speakers are located or “traveling from,” or you can narrow your search to a specific state to keep travel costs down.
• You can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker if they have a personal connection to your organization, mission, or the event location (does this give them a chance to visit their hometown?) Consider adding a cover letter to your speaking invitation, with the help of your Key Speakers Account Advisor.
• Be upfront about what you will need from the speaker – such as recording permission, promotional requests, the activities you want them to participate in – so that Key Speakers can pair you with a speaker that checks all your boxes.
• Speaker bureaus like Key Speakers help guide you through the speaker booking process to help you negotiate the best deal with the most favorable terms.
Get started by using Key Speakers Bureau’s advanced search feature – use the fee slider to see which speakers fall within your event budget and desired category. Or, you can reach out to us via our contact us form to be paired with an agent who can help you find the perfect speaker for your event!
1 ) We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker. Luckily, bureaus are more than qualified to give objective insight on the right speakers to book and who to avoid. Having an ally on your side who is familiar with the talent booking industry goes a long way. We work for YOU. Not the speakers… not talent agencies… we are a resource for planners and always ensure that your needs come first.
2) We take care of the nitty-gritty contractual details. Leave the fine print to us so you can focus on other aspects of your event. Key Speakers mediates and absorbs some contractual risks so you don’t have to sign your life away.
3) With our highly communicative booking model, you’ll never be left in the dark with the status of your hired speaker. We pride ourselves with a quick response time and always keep you updated on all new developments concerning your event. We are always up for a briefing call so everyone is on the same page, too! Our agents are personable (after our morning coffee!) and are willing and able to do whatever it takes to secure a fantastic speaker for your event.
4)We have industry connections. Not to name drop… but we know people. It’s our job to connect you to who’s who in the industry. Working with a celebrity has never been so easy.
To put it simply, a speakers bureau is your one-stop resource for booking and managing speakers for your event. We do the heavy lifting for you. Our dedicated and knowledgeable booking agents ensure that the speaker’s message and personal brand perfectly align to your event objectives.
Black History Month is an annual event during the month of February focused on celebrating black history. As we look forward to celebrating this month-long holiday, we’d like to recognize the many incredible black leaders who have made a lasting impact on our country. From politicians and activists to artists and athletes, these inspiring figures have used their platforms to fight for justice, equality, and progress.
Black History Month is placed in February because it contains the birthdays of notable figures in society who have done a great deal to advance the cause of civil rights. Each year, organizations and institutions around the world host events and programs dedicated to celebrating black history and culture.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our list of some of the top black history keynote speakers available to book for your next event.
Top Black History Month Speakers
If you’re looking for someone to inspire and educate your audience this Black History Month, look no further than our list of top black history speakers. These iconic figures continue to share their views of the Black perspective through a unique lens of life experience.
Race & Gender Justice Activist; Daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Reverend Tutu is a South African Anglican priest and human rights activist. Born in Johannesburg, she is the daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Leah Tutu.
Tutu has been involved in activism since she was a teenager, working to end apartheid in South Africa. After the fall of apartheid, she continued her work as a human rights advocate, fighting for justice and equality for all people.
Rev. Tutu is an inspiring figure, and her work to promote human rights is invaluable. She has spoken out against racism, poverty, and other forms of discrimination, and she continues to be a powerful voice for change.
Marcus Bullock is an entrepreneur and powerful advocate for criminal justice reform. After spending time in prison himself, he dedicated his life to fighting for change. In his speeches, he discusses the importance of compassion and understanding and urges audiences to never give up on the fight for justice.
Bullock is the founder and CEO of Flikshop, Inc., a software company that builds tools to help incarcerated people stay connected to their families and build community.
Daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr; CEO of The King Center
Bernice King is a powerful figure in the civil rights movement and the daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. She has dedicated her life to fighting for justice and equality, and she is a powerful advocate for peace and nonviolence.
Bernice King’s speeches are always inspiring and informative. She speaks candidly about the challenges faced by the civil rights movement, as well as the importance of continuing Dr. King’s legacy of peace and nonviolence. Her speeches are both moving and motivating, and they always leave audiences inspired to take action.
Shaun Harper is a race and gender scholar and activist. He is the executive director of the Race and Equity Center at the University of Southern California and has dedicated his life to the studies of race, gender, and LGBT issues in corporate and academic environments.
Harper has written extensively about racism in America, and he is a powerful voice for change. His speeches offer a unique perspective on diversity and inclusion in America. He is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to learn more about this important topic and can be an excellent choice as a keynote speaker when celebrating Black History Month.
An iconic figure of the Black Power movement, Dr. Angela Davis is a writer, scholar, and political activist. She is best known for her work as a radical feminist and her advocacy for the rights of prisoners and other marginalized groups.
A powerful orator, Dr. Davis has spent her career fighting for social justice. In her speeches, she challenges audiences to think critically about race, gender, and class in American society. Her passion and commitment to making positive change make her an excellent choice for any event looking to promote dialogue and action around social justice issues.
Lance Bottoms has a long history of fighting for social justice. As an attorney, she worked to promote equal access to education and housing for all residents of Atlanta. As a city council member, she championed measures to reduce crime and improve public safety. And as Mayor, she has pledged to make Atlanta a more equitable and inclusive city.
Lance Bottoms’ speeches reflect her dedication to social justice. In her talks, she discusses the importance of fighting for equality and breaking down barriers. She also highlights the challenges and opportunities facing Atlanta today and urges audiences to get involved in the city’s progress.
Keisha Lance Bottoms is an inspiring leader and a powerful advocate for social justice. Her speeches are sure to engage and inspire any audience interested in making positive change in their community.
Professor of History and African American Studies at Georgetown University; Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author
Marcia Chatelain is a historian and educator who studies race, racism, and social justice. She is the author of The South Side: A Portrait of Chicago and American Segregation.
Chatelain is an engaging speaker who offers a unique perspective on the black perspective in America. In her speeches, she provides historical context for the current discussion of race in America. She also offers strategies for dismantling racism and promoting social justice. Her talks are informative and inspiring and provide attendees with a better understanding of the complex issue of race in America.
Anthony Ray Hinton is a civil rights activist and author who was wrongly convicted of murder and spent 30 years on death row for a crime he didn’t commit. During his time in prison, Hinton became a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform and wrote a book about his experiences called “The Sun Does Shine.”
Since his release in 2015, Hinton has continued to fight for criminal justice reform. He speaks publicly about the need for reform and the importance of compassion and understanding. He also urges audiences to never give up on the fight for justice, no matter how difficult the struggle may be.
Brother of George Floyd; Advocate for Social Change
Philonise Floyd is the co-founder of the Philonise and Keeta Institute for Social Change and has dedicated his life to fighting for social justice. Brother of George Floyd, the institute’s principles are to advocate for children and families in an effort to eradicate the daily impacts of police brutality in communities across the country.
In his speeches, he discusses the importance of education and activism in the fight for social justice. She also urges audiences to get involved in their community and help make positive change.
Sybrina Fulton is best known as the mother of Trayvon Martin, an unarmed teenager who was shot and killed by a neighborhood watch volunteer in 2012. Since then, Fulton has become a powerful advocate for criminal justice reform and racial equality.
In her speeches, Fulton discusses the importance of fighting for justice and ending racism. She also talks about her own personal story, and how it has motivated her to fight for change. Fulton’s speeches are moving and inspiring, and offer attendees a glimpse into the fight for equality and justice in America.
Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of black Americans and to learn about the challenges they have faced. These speakers offer a powerful and necessary perspective on race, identity, and social justice. By booking one of these speakers for your event, you can ensure that your audience will have a meaningful and educational experience this Black History Month.
Common Speaker Topics for Black History Month
Topics for Black History Month are most often both inspiring and informative. Whether focusing on an issue like civil rights or the role of the family in black culture, the best speakers push their audience to consider new ideas and move to action to improve the black experience across the country. Here are just a few of the most popular speaker topics for Black History Month.
The Role of Black Culture in America
Black culture has played a significant role in shaping American society. From music and fashion to art and literature, black culture has left an indelible mark on the United States. This is especially evident during Black History Month when Americans celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the country.
Developments in Civil Rights
The civil rights movement was a pivotal moment in American history. During Black History Month, it is important to reflect on the progress that has been made since then and the work that still needs to be done. Speakers can discuss the various developments in civil rights over the years and how they have affected the black community.
The Future Black Experience Across the Country
Despite progress made over the years, black people continue to face many challenges. Speakers at Black History Month events can discuss the future prospects for black people across the United States and ways that everyone can help create a more equitable society.
The Importance of Education
Education is often cited as one of the most important tools for black people to achieve success. Black History Month is an ideal time to discuss the importance of education and how it can help close the achievement gap between black and white students.
Booking the Perfect Black History Month Keynote Speaker
When booking a black history month speaker, it is important to consider the audience and the overall tone of the event. Some events may be focused on celebrating black achievement, while others may be more focused on promoting social justice or sharing stories about overcoming adversity.
No matter what the focus of the event is, scheduling and budget are two additional important factors to consider when booking a speaker. From a budget standpoint, many speakers will require accommodations, travel fees, meals, and possibly even security in addition to their base speaker fees. It is crucial to evaluate the full costs from the beginning when choosing a speaker. Otherwise, you may find that your expectations are not aligned with the actual cost of bringing a specific speaker to your event.
Booking a speaker as early as possible is a great way to ensure you have the speaker you would like. Often, prime dates with great speakers are likely to be booked months or even years in advance.
Final Thoughts
There are many great speakers who can help educate and inspire audiences during Black History Month. By featuring one or more of these speakers at your event, you can ensure that your audience will have a meaningful and memorable experience.
The best way to ensure that the event is successful is to work with a speaker bureau that can help you find the perfect keynote speaker based on your objectives and budget. The team at Key Speakers has extensive experience booking speakers for black history events. We can work with you to find a speaker who will inspire and engage your audience. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you make your event a success.
Book A Top Black Motivational Speaker For Your Event
Interested in inviting a black motivational speaker to share their expertise and perspectives at your Black History Month event? Contact us!
As we find ourselves in the midst of one of the most disruptive and challenging times in the evolution of business, your organization might be looking for a helping hand to keep you up to speed. How can meeting planners ensure the keynote speakers they book are relevant to impress your audience? We’ve done the research. See all the latest and greatest motivational speakers with topics to consider for your upcoming event, vetted by Key Speakers.
Linda Bernardi – Digital Disruption Strategist; Former IBM Chief Innovation Officer and Watson Co-Lead With a passion for innovation & leadership, Linda Bernardi possesses a unique vision and a fierce commitment to promoting innovative, disruptive ideas and technologies. In her role as “innovation provocateur,” Linda helps organizations break free of their comfort zone, defy conventional wisdom, and shatter outdated paradigms in their quest for market- changing products, services and methods. Speaking Topics: Leadership in Highly Competitive Landscapes; How AI Will Change Your Business; Emerging Technologies; Disruption & Innovation; Emerging Technologies
Scott Galloway– NYU Brand Strategy & Digital Marketing Professor; Co-Host of “Pivot” Podcast on Vox Media Scott Galloway is an entrepreneur, marketer and uber-cool Clinical Professor at the NYU Stern School of Business where he teaches brand strategy and digital marketing. He is also the founder of Red Envelope, Prophet Brand Strategy and L2 inc, acquired by Gartner. He is author of the New York Times Bestselling book, The Four: The Hidden DNA of Amazon, Apple, Facebook, And Google, and most recently, The Algebra of Happiness: Notes on the Pursuit of Success, Love and Meaning. Speaking Topics: Post Corona: From Crisis to Opportunity; The Great Disruption: Business in Times of Covid-19; WeWTF; Streaming Wars; The Algebra of Happiness
Cassandra Worthy – Growth Enabler, Founder & CEO of Change Enthusiasm Global Cassandra Worthy is Founder & CEO of a well-respected Growth Enablement Firm. She is a former Fortune 100 Innovation Leader, highly dynamic speaker & presenter, chemical engineer, but above all else the world’s leading expert on Change Enthusiasm®. Through her corporate experiences, she has not only endured but THRIVED during major change challenges including acquisition and significant organizational restructure. In her dynamic keynotes and workshops, with wit and infectious energy, she now teaches this unique strategy with world-class business leaders across any and every industry, from CPG to Retail to Insurance to Healthcare…just to name a few. Speaking Topics: Explore the Underbelly of Exceptional Leadership Through Change; Master the Chemistry of Change; Engineering a Resilient and Inclusive Culture: Practical Tools to Nurture High-Level Workforce and Customer Engagement
Robert Safian– Founder of The Flux Group; Managing Editor of Fast Company, Time, Fortune, Money Bob Safian is an unparalleled source of insight on the future of global enterprise. His acclaimed podcast Masters of Scale: Rapid Response has been cited by The New York Times as one of its “Podcasts for the Pandemic Era.” Previously, he led the influential, award-winning business magazine Fast Company for 11 years, turning it into the world’s leading progressive business media. Speaking Topics: Lessons of the World’s Most Innovative Companies; Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence; How to Succeed In The Age of Flux: Leadership That Matters
Valorie Burton – Certified Coach and CEO and Founder of the Coaching and Positive Psychology Institute Valorie Burton i author of six books on personal development, including How Did I Get So Busy? and What’s Really Holding You Back? She is deeply committed to helping people be more resilient so they can thrive in life and work. She helps readers and audiences get unstuck, be more productive, and live with balance and purpose. Speaking Topics: Listen to Your Life Getting Unstuck and Following Your Unique Path to Extraordinary Success; How to Use the Proven Power of Positivity to Overcome Your Obstacles or Successful People Think Differently; Coaching for Leaders – How to Bring Out the Best in Yourself & Others
Mike Walsh – Top Business Futurist and Authority on Innovation, Technology and Emerging Markets: “The Futurist for Leaders” Mike Walsh is the CEO of Tomorrow, a global consultancy on designing business for the 21st century. He advises leaders on how to thrive in this era of disruptive technological change. Rather than focusing on the distant future, Mike focuses on the next five years – scanning the near horizon for disruptive technologies and consumer innovations on the verge of hitting critical mass – then translating these into usable business strategies. As a global nomad, speaker and consumer trend scout, Walsh brings a truly global perspective to every event. Speaking Topics: The Future-Proof Organization – Beyond COVID-19; New Rules for a New World; Designing Your Business for the 21st Century; The Algorithmic Leader
Melissa Agnes– Crisis Management Advisorand Author of Crisis Ready: Building an Invincible Brand in an Uncertain World Melissa Agnes is a leading authority on crisis preparedness, reputation management, and brand protection. Agnes is a coveted speaker, commentator, and advisor to some of today’s leading organizations faced with the greatest risks. As a strategic advisor and keynote speaker, Melissa Agnes has worked with NATO, Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense, financial firms, technology companies, healthcare organizations, cities and municipalities, law enforcement agencies, global non-profits, and many others, helping them understand risk and build invincible brands that can withstand even the most devastating of events. Speaking Topics: Crisis Readying your Organization for the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Impact; Choosing Your Lens: Transforming Issues into Opportunities; Building an Invincible Brand
Dr. Stephen Klasko – Healthcare Futurist, President of Thomas Jefferson University and CEO of Jefferson Health Dr. Steve Klasko, MD, MBA, is a transformative leader and advocate for a revolution in our systems of healthcare and higher education. As president and CEO of Philadelphia-based Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health since 2013, he has steered one of the nation’s fastest growing academic health institutions based on his vision of re-imagining health care and higher education. Speaking Topics: 5 Lessons We Must Take from the Coronavirus Crisis; Population Health, AI and Transforming Care Delivery – Moving From Philosophy to Practice; The Future of Hospitals; We CAN Fix Healthcare – The Future is NOW
Lucy Hone – Leading International Authority on Wellbeing and Resilience Lucy Hone is a research associate at AUT University, a director of the New Zealand Institute of Wellbeing & Resilience, a published academic researcher, best-selling author and blogger for Psychology Today. She now assists organizations – from government departments, to leading law firms and schools – to design and implement wellbeing and resilience initiatives creating sustained and meaningful change. Speaking Topics: Maintaining High Performance in the Age of Burnout; The Secrets of Resilient People; The Secrets of High Performing Teams
click here for a custom virtual training Webinar for Key speaker’s clients by James Taylor
The webinar will focus on these topics: 1. The Eight Types Of Online Events (And Choosing The Right One) 2. Best Practices With Transitioning Live Events To Virtual Platforms 3. The Three Types Of Studio Setups For Presenting Online 4. How To Create Your Own Online Summit Or Industry Conference 5. Choosing A Great Keynote Speaker Or Trainer For Your Next Online Event
In order to adapt and plan effectively moving forward, we need to start with the basics. With linked sources, here’s an outline contrasting the various forms of online speaker presentation formats.
While watching a presentation online, did you know if the presenter was delivering it in real-time? Was the event recorded prior to its delivery? Were you watching it at a convenient time for you? Here is a quick rundown on different methods to deliver your events.
live Streaming
Coverage of an event broadcast over the internet, often via social media channels. Streaming is commonly used when gaming on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. An event is happening NOW. No matter where you are or how you received the link to view. If you could throw a virtual tomato at the presenter, it would hit them in real-time.
ON DEMAND
What works for the presenter, or the company delivering the presentation doesn’t always work for the person who wants to attend the event. By recording the live event, the company can then host it on-demand for future attendees to access when it’s convenient for them. Sometimes the organizer will mislead you to think an on-demand talk is actually live buy setting the start-time to be 15 minutes after you open the invite to make it feel like you are watching along with others.
RECORDED
The speaker records their presentation prior to the audience joining the web room. The footage may be edited, cut, or media inserted.
HYBRID
A conference, trade show, seminar, workshop or other meeting that combines a live, in-person audience with a virtual, online audience. (source) Hybrid events can be a mix of any other formats mentioned here. Perhaps you’d like to record the seminar portion of a speakers presentation and then go live afterwards to answer questions.
Other Terminology:
Aside from the four basic methods listed above, here are some common terms which are used to describe sorts of virtual events.
WEBINAR A webinar has interactive elements, such as chat and live surveys/polls that allow the attendees to engage with the presenter.
WEBCAST A webcast allows for limited interaction between the audience and the presenter via the Internet. This is often a presentation delivered in front of a live audience in the room, while simultaneously being filmed and broadcasted for an online audience.
SIMULCAST A simultaneous broadcast. The most relevant meaning of simulcasting is to live stream to more than one channel at once. (source)
VIRTUAL PRESENTATION May also be called a digital presentation. A live, on demand, or recorded presentation taking place online and made using digital tools such as PowerPoint. It may also include embedded digital elements such as videos or animations. It can also be screen sharing and whiteboarding sessions.
WEB CONFERENCE A web conference often a discussion (or meeting) occurring between multiple people using a conferencing software or provider. There is more than one speaker or session and works best with a virtual emcee or moderator.
With the help of business creativity, innovation and artificial intelligence expert, James Taylor, we are eager to provide some basic guidelines for those speakers who are learning the ropes of presenting virtual presentations. This guide contains suggested equipment lists and setups for speakers, masterclass leaders, emcees, hosts, on-screen talent and clients who have to deliver virtual keynotes, trainings, interviews or presentations.
As someone who has been giving virtual keynote speeches and training online since 2010 I know how daunting it can be if you are new to presenting virtually.
However today anyone can build a simple home studio setup within a few days. Presenting online is a little like riding a bicycle for the first time. You might wobble a bit on the first few attempts, but then it will become second-nature to you.
A basic home studio setup for delivering online presentations can cost a few hundred dollars. However professional speakers and corporate clients should look to invest a few thousands dollars to build home studio or office setups that look and sound high quality.
Depending on what kind of presentations you give you would want one of four studio setups:
Basic – simple setup which can also be used in the home, office or on the road (for example from a hotel room).
Pro Keynoter – full seated setup when presenting from home or office.
Pro Trainer/Host – full setup for hosts/mc’s/trainers for home/office use which allows the speaker to stand and move more freely.
Corporate Studio – full setup in a corporate office to film a variety of presentations including direct to camera, training videos, online courses and interviews.
It is obvious that things are feeling out of our control recently, which can often leave us feeling fearful in the face of immense change. Because of the social changes we must make in our lives due to COVID-19, the events industry in particular must pivot in a unique and unprecedented way.
However, there is one thing we do have control over: how we choose to frame the discussion around issues relating to the Coronavirus. The manner in which we discuss (and therefore comprehend) these current events can also lend a hand in shaping how it is impacting our industry.
Here are some suggestions for re-framing common thoughts and discussion points relating to the impact of COVID-19 on the events industry—because words matter, especially in uncertain times.
Instead of: “The impact of virtual events will never match the impact of real-life presentations”
Try: “Virtual events are an invaluable tool which can reach audiences in a uniquely impactful way.”
Even though it may seem counter-intuitive, online presentations actually provide a unique opportunity to connect with a speaker on a very personal level. For example, in a Zoom presentation, audience members can interact with one another and post questions in the chatroom feature. Online events typically lend themselves to being great for Q&A formats. Questions can be asked and reviewed by a moderator in real-time, then presented to the speaker for their candid comments directly to the attendee who asked.
Plus, there are also some clear financial and logistical benefits to hosting virtual events. For one, speakers are generally quite willing to adapt their fee structures for events that take place online, making virtual presentations an extremely cost-effective option to boost morale, inform, and entertain attendees during social distancing. Is there a speaker you’ve had your eye on for a while but can’t accommodate the large fee? Now is the time to reach out to see what can be accommodated. There will also be no need to pay for speaker travel buyouts which typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on location and speaker requirements. In addition to being cost-effective, virtual events are also time-effective, requiring less effort and manpower to organize, set up, and clean up. Finally, receiving feedback on a speaker in the form of event surveys is also easier and instantaneous, as participants are already online and submitting virtual surveys is simple.
Instead of: “I miss meeting new people and the opportunity to network and form new connections at in-person events”
Try: “Isn’t it amazing that because of technology we can still enjoy human connection, even when we are apart for a short while?”
We are so lucky that through technology we can adapt to meet the needs of our industry and our human need to connect with one another. Our work is deeply rooted in person-to-person communication, which now more than ever is incredibly important. Even though this communication may look and feel different, we still are able to connect with one another and enjoy the and develop the bonds that make us human.
And… Something great has come from all of this: ONLINE HAPPY HOURS. In lieu of events which have been cancelled or postponed, create an online video chat space for your attendees to connect with those they would have met at your gathering. Drinks are cheaper too.
Just think of how amazing that first in-person event will feel when we are all together once again– because without a doubt, the live event experience will come back stronger than ever as a result of peoples’ intrinsic need to connect with others.
This will be all of us when this is over:
Instead of: “Our industry will never be the same—and that is worrisome.”
Try: “Our industry will never be the same—and that give us the creative freedom to define our future; we can use this to grow and innovate.”
The skills we acquire through this situation, like finding ways to engage online audiences and staying agile no matter what, are invaluable to professional development. The greatest reward to reap once we emerge from this fog will be our ability to move forward into the world, stronger together as an industry and as people.
Because it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, it’s important to realize the value our thoughts and words hold on our perceptions.
We will get through this together.
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