Conference Speakers: Understanding The Selection Criteria

There is a lot that conference speakers can bring to your event or conference and settling on the right individual is of utmost importance. If you are to deliver what your attendees want you should consider having relevant, fresh speakers as well as energizing entertainment. Attendees come not only for the active experience but also to learn and speakers who can connect with them at a personal and professional level should be part of the selection criteria.

This guide will help you understand the selection criteria when choosing the right conference speaker.

Try Not To “Go Fishing”

It goes without saying that budget is an important aspect when it comes to selecting the right international conference speakers. While it’s essential to get value for your money it’s best if you are objective and realistic about what you really want.

Live entertainment and speakers can take up most of your budget and you should consider them an investment. For instance, if you’ve allocated $15,000 for a speaker don’t be tempted to go in search of one that’s below $7,000. Doing this will cut your returns in half and double your search time.

Go For Industry Oriented Speakers

It’s important for your speakers to understand your industry. Most audience will find generic topics fun and interesting but the need of your audience is information that is both relevant and specific to their issues. Apart from understanding the industry and industry trends, the speakers ought to tweak the presentation to current issues and trends facing your attendees.

Ask Audience Or Members Of Your Organization

Instead of guessing you should get views from the audience on the topics that they find interesting. Also, you can ask them what they want to hear and you’ll be surprised at the feedback you’ll get. Apart from the audience, members of your organization can also help you brainstorm on topics that they find interesting. About 80% of most conference speakers come from recommendations and this is something you would want to consider.

Check News Or Ask Your Contact

Undertake a routine check on news and news articles related to your issue or topic. Get to understand the experts that they quote or interview but keep in mind that this works on subjects that are timely. What’s more, don’t hesitate to ask your contacts on LinkedIn or Facebook or get recommendations on speakers that have been used in the past.