The keynote address cements what a conference or meeting is all about. It sets the agenda or confirms the deliberations already made. This places the
keynote speaker at the center of your proceedings. You probably wonder why the speech is not delivered by the chairman or most influential member of the congress. This only confirms the centrality of the address and the need to get the right person.
There is some clout that comes with finding an authoritative in your area. This should be a person envied by all players. An influential and successful person in the industry will fit the role. You should consider a person who most participants regard as a role model. This means that he or she commands authority, not because of the role currently assigned but his or her mere presence.
Your chosen person must be aware of the challenges and success experienced by participants and the industry in general. This information is used to confirm decisions made and motivate the crowd to pursue greater goals and wins. Being conversant with the crowd enables him or her to give an address that is relevant. Understanding the lives of a people makes it easier to relate with them.
Though conferences are serious business, an element of fun must be present. A funny and engaging person will deliver a memorable speech. Such speakers are entertaining and will leave an impression to sustain the momentum until the next gathering. In most cases, the speech is delivered after several days of lengthy deliberations. The person acts as relief yet with a touch of humor. It takes creativity to hammer home ideas using fun and still make sense.
Some speakers will be called upon to double as moderators. This works for smaller groups or where participants are required to give views and generate ideas. An outgoing person will perfectly fit this role. The speaker must be pleasant in delivery and not intimidate the participants. The organization of the hall must also facilitate such an environment. This method works best for smaller groups.
Keynote speeches are slotted for different purposes depending on their allocation in the program. The speech may be allocated the beginning, middle or end of meeting. A speech at the beginning is meant to determine or expound on the agenda. Speakers slotted the middle of a symposium have the duty of energizing deliberations towards a climax. Should you be asked to close a meeting, your responsibility is to crown all deliberations.
There are people to avoid when selecting a speaker. Controversial personalities will only cause division within the group. Persons who advocate for radical ideas can only be invited if the group stands by such. Obvious figures are also likely to deliver a flat speech since their style and ideas are already known. Only consider personalities who will add value to your program.
While the speakers have personal styles and ideas to perpetuate, brief them on the issues to address. Make them understand your current position as a company, organization or group. Their address should guided by expectations and sensitive to your unique situation. This is why it is important to find an individual who embodies your journey and situation.