Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Public Speaker
When people learn that I spent years in TV news, I often get asked to speak. Sometimes, it's facilitating one of our corporate team building programs or moderating an industry panel. Other times, it's delivering a keynote at a conference. But whatever it is, I always love it. For me, Public speaking is a way to bring people together and it's a chance to use my on-camera skills, storytelling background and comfort in front of a crowd, in a way that can make an impact.
As a San Diego–based public speaker who also travels for events nationwide, I’ve had numerous conversations with Meeting Planners about what goes into choosing the right presenter. We've all heard it. Choosing the right speaker can either elevate your entire event or leave your audience disengaged. And while every event is unique, I've noticed that Meeting Planners here in San Diego... and across the country, often ask me the same core questions when they’re evaluating potential speakers.
To help you choose the best fit for your next conference, corporate event or team-building retreat, here are the most important questions to ask before hiring a public speaker.
1. What Topics Do You Specialize In?
Great speakers don’t just talk and look good on stage. They bring depth, experience and perspective. Be sure to ask the speaker what they’re passionate about, what fuels their passion and where their expertise comes from. The last thing you want is a speaker who's passionate but they have no experience to back it up.
Look for someone who can deliver content that aligns with:
- Your event theme
- Your audience demographics
- Your organization’s goals
- The tone you want to set (inspirational, educational, energizing, practical)
Years ago, I remember when a Meeting Planner shared that her company was going through a tough time. She asked if I had real-life experiences with overcoming challenges, noting that they didn’t want someone who would just say, “Focus on the positive and everything will work out.” As a former TV News Reporter and now business owner, overcoming obstacles is part of my daily life, so that’s absolutely something I can speak about. Audiences can tell when a speaker is authentic, and when the message truly fits your event, they'll respond.
2. Do You Customize Your Content for Corporate Audiences?
Cookie-cutter speeches never work. Ask if the speaker can customize their presentation to your industry, company culture and/or overall vision.
A strong speaker should be able to adapt by:
- Incorporating your team’s language or values
- Adding relevant stories or examples
- Adjusting the content for different audience sizes or levels
Customization is what turns a talk into a real, memorable experience for the audience.
3. How Do You Engage Audiences at Conferences and Corporate Events?
It's no secret that we're living in an era of short attention spans. A Meeting Planner once told me, "If a speaker doesn't grab my attention within the first 3 minutes, my mind starts to wander." Audience engagement is everything.
Ask about:
- Audience engagement: Are there interactive moments OR is it a traditional 45-minute monologue?”
- Storytelling approach: As a former TV news reporter, I love this part! Make sure your speaker can deliver their message through compelling storytelling.
- Q&A format: Can they handle questions confidently and encourage dialogue?
- Humor or energy style: Choose a speaker whose tone & energy level matches your audience and event vibe.
- Multisensory elements: Does the speaker use any tools to enhance engagement?
Whether your conference is in San Diego or anywhere across the U.S., you want a speaker who can read a room, shift energy if needed and keep people connected from start to finish.
4. What’s Your Onstage Style?
Some speakers are high-energy, while others are soft-spoken. Some are funny while others are more thoughtful and heartwarming. There is no wrong answer, however, it's critical you choose the speaker who is RIGHT for your event.
Be sure to check out the speaker's:
- Video clips/Speaker reel
- Testimonials
- LinkedIn Profile
This gives you a realistic sense of how they’ll land with your audience.
5. What Do You Need From Us to Ensure a Great Session?
This question is an important one, as you want to set up your Speaker for success. A strong speaker will clearly outline their preferences and technical needs, such as:
- Stage layout/Confidence Monitor
- Microphone type
- Room configuration
- Audience capacity
- Site visit opportunity
- Rehearsal time
This shows they’re experienced and helps avoid surprises.
6. Can You Provide ROI for Our Audience and Event Goals?
At the end of the day, a great speaker isn’t just inspirational, they serve a purpose.
Ask how their talk will:
- Move the audience to action
- Reinforce your message beyond the event
- Add lasting value
Whether it's a leadership retreat, a corporate conference or a panel workshop, you want a speaker who does more than entertain. You want someone who understands your vision, does their homework and can elevate your event.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right public speaker can transform your event. By asking the right questions, Meeting Planners and corporate organizers can find someone who aligns with their vision, brings professionalism to the entire process and creates amazing memories for their audience.
If you’re planning a conference, team building event or corporate offsite, in San Diego or anywhere in the U.S., I’d love to be considered as a partner in helping make your program unforgettable. Email darlynne@groupadventures.com