A great keynote speaker can take an event from acceptable to exceptional. Knowledge and expertise are important factors to look for when selecting a speaker, but there other equally important qualities for a speaker to have in order for your audience to leave inspired, ready to take action, and to remember your event for years. Here are three qualities for you to look for:
Keynote Speakers should be Storytellers
For your attendees to leave with a positive impression of your organization and event, it is essential to ensure that the content with which they are presented is engaging and memorable. The best way to do that is through stories, lots of stories. This enables the audience to learn lessons and relate these lessons in their lives. This activates their senses and the long-term memory. Great keynote speakers are great storytellers; they possess dynamic presentation styles that allow their message to be delivered in ways that are not only informative but also memorable. It is instantly engaging once a speaker says, “let me tell you a story.”
Keynote Speakers should be Adaptable
Beyond being memorable, a speech must also be applicable to the audience and event, keeping in line with the organization’s overall message and goals. A gifted keynote speaker ask themselves what their audience needs to hear and customize their messages, stories, and delivery based on the industry and the audience. Even though they may have a consistent speaking style, these presenters will tailor their approach with each speech, recognizing that there is no “one-size-fits-all” method for effective message delivery.
Keynote Speakers should be Humorous
Most topics within the corporate world are serious, but this doesn’t mean that they have to be boring. Infusing humor into any presentation can keep the presentation lively and the audience awake. Those bursts of laughter deliver oxygen to the brain and release endorphins, both of which serve to increase engagement and the overall audience experience.
When it comes to selecting the right speaker for your event, conduct thorough research to ensure that they meet the above qualities. Look over their website and social media accounts, read anything they have written, speak to others who have seen them speak before, and look for videos of their presentations available online. When you find a speaker with the right expertise and qualifications as well as the qualities above, you can be confident that your guests will have a valuable, entertaining experience.
