8 Life Hacks for Working with Speakers

It’s often difficult to build a constructive dialog with a speaker so that they can reveal themselves to the fullest at an event. Based on our experience, we have compiled 8 life hacks on how to successfully communicate with speakers.

The way of communication

Do not write to the speaker in the messenger. It’s better to send an email. Describe your event in detail so that the person understands where they are going and what they are going to say. This is important for choosing a topic, and an individual approach will help build a good relationship with the speaker.

Presentation

Ask the speaker to make a presentation (unless they decide to prepare one themselves). Visualization is important for better perception of information. If the speaker needs help with the presentation, provide it. But don’t be too annoying: you don’t need to remind them of the presentation every day.

Target audience

Tell the speaker who the target audience is and explain the purpose of the event. Speakers are looking for common ground with the audience. Tell the speaker who the target audience is and explain the purpose of the event. Speakers are looking for common ground with the audience.

Announcement

Coordinate the text for the speaker’s announcement with the speaker. This way you will avoid inaccuracies, as the information you find about the speaker in open resources may be outdated or incorrect.

Additional materials

Material preparation for the speech is an important component. Ask if the speaker needs a flipchart/markers/stickers for the presentation. You, as the organizer, should provide the speaker with everything they need for their speech.

Technical component

The speaker should not connect the projector or make other technical preparations by himself. Find people to help him with this. Remember: they came to the event to tell their story. The technical part is up to you.

Logistics

Most often, it is the organizers who have to take care of the speaker’s travel and accommodation. It is a normal practice to pay for the speaker’s travel, and if you have the opportunity, use it.

Nuances

Ask your speaker how he or she would like to be announced: by himself or herself or by the event host. This way you will avoid awkward pauses and unpleasant situations.