Keynotes for Leaders FAQ

Why should I use a speakers bureau, like Keynotes for Leaders?

For the same reasons you’d utilize a travel consultant, financial advisor or realtor. Hiring a speaker is a considerable investment for many organizations. Our consultants know the marketplace and can make your job easier by bringing you exactly what you need for your event, while avoiding the pitfalls. Our experience, and years of forming relationships throughout the industry, will get you the most value for your money, and the right speaker for your event.  

How do you find a speaker for my event?

We use a super easy, 3-step process to match you with the right speaker.

We need a keynote speaker for next week’s event! Is it too late?  

Not necessarily. We often field last-minute requests and have been known to place a speaker at a moment’s notice. Of course, the closer we get to the deadline for your event, the more likely it is that speaker availability will be a factor.

What’s the best time to secure our keynote speaker?

Most companies book their keynote speakers 4 to 6 months in advance, but don’t hesitate to reach out at the last minute. We’ll accommodate you if we can!

Why can’t I just contact a speaker directly?

Most top-name speakers only work through bureaus, who manage logistics and scheduling for them. Plus, we know handling all the arrangements for a large-scale event can be time-consuming for you.

Our consultants take “speaker research” off your to-do list. We have a deep pool of speakers and can narrow down the options for you, bringing you speakers who fit your needs and saving you time to focus on other details.

Do I have to pay extra for the speakers bureau services?

No, we partner with our speakers, who give us a commission for every booking we manage for them. This way, the process is easier for the speaker, and you, our valuable client, get the best rates.

How much are your speaker fees?

Speaker fees start at $10,000 for a 2-hour session, in person or virtually. Nonprofit organizations are eligible for a 50% discount.

Do you accept pro bono requests?

Generally, no. However, we do evaluate all requests on a case-by-case basis and will gladly field your request amongst our speaker pool to gauge their interest and availability.

Why do you charge extra for travel?

We typically charge a travel stipend of $1,000 for in-person events, and ask our speakers to coordinate their own travel arrangements. That way you don’t have to worry about making yet another hotel reservation or keeping up with expense reports. You can focus your time on more important event logistics.

Of course, we love for you to give the speaker your recommendations on lodging and meals. And do alert them if they should arrive the night prior to your event.

Do you have a referral program if I recommend you to a friend?

Yes, thanks for asking. We love word-of-mouth referrals!

Please ask your friend to tell us you sent them. We’ll confirm that arrangement with you, and, should they book a speaker, we’ll give you a referral bonus after their event is finished. You’ll be eligible for 20% of the speaker fee. You can take the cash or use it as credit towards a future event of your own.

My boss just tasked me with finding a speaker for our upcoming conference. I’ve never done this before. What should I do?

First, determine your event audience, budget, date, and location. Then, reach out to us and our expert consultants will guide you through the process, from initial call to curtain call (and beyond). 

Our mission is to make you look good, by providing top-notch speakers and unparalleled service. Click here to request a speaker so we can talk about next steps now.

What if I don’t know what topic to choose?

No worries. Our expert consultants will ask you about the business challenges facing your company and about the leadership development needs of your event audience. We’ll work with you to find the right topic – and speaker – that will engage and inspire.

What are the trending topics I should know about?

Check out our latest blog posts for updates on the most requested topics.

I don’t see a topic that will resonate with my audience. Do I need to go to another speakers bureau?

If you’re looking for leadership best practices, we want to partner with you. We feature just a few of our most requested topics on our website, so you aren’t overwhelmed with too many options to consider.

Contact us to discuss your custom content needs, and we’ll tap our speaker pool to see which expert is available to work with you.

Do you have any resources for event planners during this time of COVID-19? 

Our speakers are experienced virtual presenters and can easily conduct a session for your company using your Zoom, WebEx, or Microsoft Teams platform.

For more tips, check out the CDC event planning guidelines.