Tuesday, 27 September 2016

Locating An Experienced Conference Keynote Speaker

By Patricia Stewart


Depending on the type of event, speaking engagements can be short and to the point or lengthy. For example, a conference keynote speaker associated with a development or engineering firm in Columbus, Ohio might need longer than someone speaking to a social group. In either case, it is important to select an individual with a great deal of knowledge in the related area.

Most often, social groups like Bi-Net USA, NORM-L and others tag individuals who have been involved in the community for quite some time. Whereas, companies often pay large amounts of money to well educated individuals within a company or visiting speakers. In either case, it is also important to check references in relation to cancellations, dependability and other core factors before making an invitation.

In addition, the individuals invited to speak often have different backgrounds. For example, someone speaking at a social conference is going to highlight information related to the organization such as those who have made a difference in the past. Whereas, a company or school is most likely going to want to invite a well known activist, entertainer or employee who can speak on a specific theme or aspect as related to the event.

When it comes to this type of address, the format is most often a speech which establishes a main or underlying theme to an event. For example, in the 1990 International Bisexual Conference in San Francisco, California, the theme was educate, advocate, celebrate. As such, the keynote speaker talked about the importance of these three elements with regards to bisexuals becoming a more accepted aspect of society.

Ultimately, the goal of most keynote addresses is to create a larger umbrella or idea. In some cases, such as at literary festivals, it will be authors or others who fill these slots. Whereas, in politics, it is often the candidates who host town halls or other small speaking engagements in which the candidates or campaign staff provide the keynote.

While different from social gatherings, educational, political and industrial exhibitions and conventions still use a similar format. One of the only differences being that the address is often delivered to set the tone and summarize a specific message. Whereas, an address at a school or university may focus on a specific area of knowledge or learning.

Keynotes are also provided at graduation ceremonies from middle-school through college. In addition, a number of universities host ongoing speaking engagements from various community organizers, musicians, politicians and others over the course of the school year. Whether raising knowledge about a political march, upcoming event or just to provide information, these events are often well attended by students and community members.

Ultimately, audience members are asked to either create or obtain interest in a specific action or event. By always selecting an individual with related experience, organizers can assure a successful conference or event. Otherwise, organizers may be taking a huge risk in inviting someone who might be a no show, or show up outside of a scheduled time slot. Lastly, it is also recommended that organizers review credentials, public speaking history and run a background check on all individuals planning on speaking at an event.




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