Choosing the right speaker is much more than a matter of gut feeling. After all, the performance on your stage reflects not only the topic, but also your company, your values, and your event. As an experienced speaker agency, we know what really matters when selecting speakers – and how you can avoid typical mistakes.
In this article, we will show you the most important selection criteria and decision-making factors so that you can make the best choice for your event.
What to consider when selecting a speaker:
- Relevance of content
The most important principle is that the speaker must fit your topic – not the other way around. This may sound trivial, but it is often the cause of disappointment at events. Pay attention to the following:
- Is the speaker’s topic really relevant to your target audience?
- Can he or she contribute their own experiences and practical examples?
- Are current developments and challenges addressed?
As an agency, we make sure that the content focus is not just superficially appropriate, but truly substantial – especially when it comes to complex, sensitive, or future-oriented topics.
- Target group orientation
Not everyone can effectively address every target group. An academically oriented speaker may shine at an executive conference, but seem out of place at a trainee kickoff event – and vice versa.
That’s why we work with you to examine:
- What is the professional or cultural background of your audience?
- How large is the group – and how willing are they to interact?
- What are their expectations and level of knowledge?
Experienced speakers adapt their style, wording, and examples to the situation. We make sure that they have this ability – and ensure this in advance through briefing and coordination.
- Personality and stage presence
A speaker can be top-notch professionally – and still fail to inspire anyone. Conversely, a charismatic speaker with less depth can have a big impact. The ideal, of course, is a combination of both.
Important questions:
- Does the speaker exude presence and authenticity?
- Are they able to build and maintain suspense?
- How do they interact with the audience – respectfully, humorously, lively?
This is where our agency experience comes into play: we know many speakers not only on paper, but also on stage—and we know how they come across in different formats and settings.
- Adaptability
No two events are alike – which is precisely why the speaker’s flexibility is crucial. This includes:
- the willingness to tailor content to your corporate world
- the ability to react spontaneously to the audience
- technical understanding of different presentation formats (e.g., hybrid, online)
When selecting speakers, we check whether they are not only willing to give their presentation, but also willing to really help shape your event.
- References and experience
The best speakers are not always the most famous – but they usually have a proven track record of success and genuine stage experience. Pay attention (and we will do so for you) to:
- References from comparable industries or target groups
- Customer testimonials and event reports
- Video material or live impressions
If you wish, we can provide you with authentic material or testimonials in advance – so that you can get a good feel for the person.
- Format compatibility
A speaker who is convincing on stage does not automatically work in a virtual format. Here, too, the same applies: not everyone fits into every format.
That’s why we check in advance:
- Is the speaker digitally confident (camera, sound, interaction)?
- Does the style fit the planned duration (e.g., 15-minute impulse vs. 60-minute keynote)?
- Is a hybrid variant possible or sensible?
We clarify the technical aspects (camera, sound, lighting) with you and prepare our speakers specifically for this.
Good speakers are not recognized by their names – but by their impact
Choosing the right speaker is a strategic decision. It’s not just about finding someone to talk about a topic – it’s about finding someone who moves people, triggers thought processes, and makes your event unforgettable.
As a speaker agency, we support you in exactly this: with experience, market knowledge, and a quality network of professional personalities. We don’t just suggest names – we recommend people who are right for you. In every respect.
Feel free to contact us – we will advise you personally and without obligation: +41 (0)43 55 66 44 0 or welcome@premium-speakers.com