As an event planner, you will have the unique experience of searching for a keynote speaker for your next event. With a wide array of speakers to chose from, it’s imperative that the keynote speaker chosen possesses qualities that inspire, educate, and entertain your audience, which considerably narrows down your options. Luckily, here is a list of five qualities that every keynote speaker should have to ensure your event is a success.
Relatability
In order to resonate with an audience, a speaker first has to relate to the audience – show them that you’ve been there too! All humans share common experiences, such as love, family, obstacles and more. Play up to those experiences in your keynote presentations. For example, Stephanie Decker, one of the most in-demand keynote speakers, connects with audiences through the love of her children. Almost every parent can agree that they would do anything for their children, which is what makes Stephanie Decker’s story more relatable.
At age 37, Stephanie Decker found herself in a life-altering moment. As her house began to disintegrate around her, she shielded her two young children with her body. Her dream home fell in, crushing her legs, but because of her heroic actions, Stephanie’s children were amazingly unscathed. This heroic story never fails to resonate with audiences, appealing to their emotions and touching the hearts of audience members everywhere.
Credibility
Next, a speaker must have credibility. Anyone can say inspirational things, but having something successful to back you up can make a world of difference. Take Mark Thompson as an example. Mark is the CEO and cofounder of Virgin Unite Mentors, Sir Richard Branson’s network for executive coaching and entrepreneurial innovation. In addition, Mark is also a Founding Patron of Virgin Unite’s Entrepreneurship Centre. A successful venture capitalist over the last two decades, Mark was as an early investor in companies like Facebook, Netflix and eSurance. Success like this proves to audiences that this speaker knows what it takes to get you to the top.
Humor
Humor is almost the surest way to engage audiences. There is not one person on earth that does not love a good laugh. Speakers who use humor can take the most mundane topics and make them engaging. One speaker who does this is Dr. Brad Nieder. Dr. Nieder is a funny doctor, keynote speaker and clean comedian who blends healthcare humor with wellness advice and an uplifting message. Audiences love his “Laughter is the Best Medicine” program, finding it entertaining and inspiring. With the unique ability to make something as complicated as the healthcare system simple and humorous, Dr. Nieder and speakers that are like him, use their quick wit and funny stories to engage audience members on any kind of topic.
Creativity
No two industries are the same, and a good speaker knows this. Speakers have to come up with ways to be innovative and stand out from the pack. Innovation and Creativity speaker David Trumble is a great example of this. In his presentations, he incorporates both a keynote and artwork that is customized for his audience. He takes the audience on a journey to use their creativity and embrace the blank canvas of infinite possibilities. By making use of his elaborate artwork, David leaves a mark on audiences minds, illustrating the many ways that they can tap into their potential, in and out of the workplace.
A Great Message
Lastly, speakers should have a great message. In order for a keynote presentation to be effective, every audience member has to walk away feeling inspired and motivated to achieve greatness. Motivational speakers are really great at achieving this. They encourage audiences to carefully examine their weaknesses and come up with ways to use it to their advantage.
Ready to start searching for your next keynote speaker? Contact Eagles Talent Speakers Bureau today.
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