What is Keynote Speaking?

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What is Keynote Speaking Exactly?

Keynotes are some of the most inspiring and moving speeches ever given. And when you hear a really good one, you remember it for a long, long time.

Who still remembers Steve Jobs’ speech introducing the iPhone? Or President Barack Obama’s keynote at the 2004 Demographic National Convention? Or Gary Vaynerchuk’s speech at the Inc 500 seminar in 2011? These weren’t just speeches; they were slices of time that gripped all who heard them.

But keynote speakers do not need to be famous and stand in front of thousands of people to be memorable. They simply need to set the right tone for the event and drive home the main message.

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Which Types of Events can Keynote Speakers Host?

Keynote speakers are commonly hired for a variety of events, such as:

Conferences

These types of events typically have one or more keynote speakers who are usually experts in their chosen field. In addition to delivering an opening speech to set the overall mood and tone, they may also be asked to present at a special breakout session or workshop for C-level guests.

Trade Shows

Trade shows allow businesses in a variety of industries to showcase their products and services. While demonstrations commonly are used to attract customers to individual booths, keynote speakers are used to attract both businesses and attendees to the event itself.

Award Ceremonies

Sitting for hours while awards are handed out can be a very boring way to spend an afternoon. But hire a great keynote speaker and you now have some entertainment. In addition, keynotes are often role models in certain fields and industries. Being presented with an award by someone distinguished shows your team members how much you value them.

Webinars

If Covid taught us anything, it’s that if you can do it in-person, you can do it online. Thanks to technology, keynote speakers are no longer limited to in-person events but can host webinars as well!

What is the Role of the Keynote Speaker?

The simple answer to this question is, a keynote speaker is the lead speaker for an event that drives home the main message and invites attendees to participate in the rest of the program. But the keynote speaker’s role goes beyond this. These pros take the audience on a journey, encouraging them to look at something with fresh eyes.

In addition, the keynote speaker is responsible for setting the tone for the event. This is usually done through motivational or inspirational elements, as well as storytelling and theatrical performances. The keynote speaker will sit down with the organization or event planner beforehand to fully understand their goals so they may then select the appropriate elements for their presentation.

What does it Take to be a Keynote Speaker?

Keynote speakers are often chosen because they have a high or unique level of expertise in their field. The more visibility in their chosen industry, the more likely people are apt to sign up for the event. And the more people in the seats, the more revenue for the organization hosting the conference.

In addition to being an industry expert, there are other aspects that make someone a great keynote speaker for hire:

What’s the Difference Between a Guest Speaker & a Keynote Speaker?

Keynote speakers are the main speakers of the event, typically presenting at the very beginning and end of the meeting or conference. Most corporate events, at some point, will segment into breakout sessions with smaller audiences. These smaller groups require a guest speaker to present important information and facilitate interaction.

Guest speakers typically have more in-depth information and content to present to these smaller audiences. They will develop their content to fit around specific subgroups within an audience to ensure its relevance.

Conferences usually hire an array of guest speakers. But the keynote speaker is the headline act, the figurehead of the entire event.

So, keynote speakers are headliners that set the tone and ensure the overall message or theme of the event is understood by the attendees. Guest speakers share specific, relevant information with smaller groups of attendees.

Conclusion

Keynote speakers are the heart of any event. Whether they are hired to present at a conference, meeting, award show or trade show, these professionals inspire, engage and educate the audience and make the overall event far more memorable.

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What is Keynote Speaking?

Ultimate Guide for 2022