What to Look for in Your Next Keynote Speaker

May 17, 2015

Much like the headliner at a major music festival, the keynote speaker at a trade show may influence many attendees and exhibitors as they make the final decision on whether to make the trip at all.

When narrowing down the list of qualified applicants to dazzle an exhibition, here are some standard practices a trade show manager should abide by.

When searching for a keynote speaker, it's not just the credentials of the speaker you're looking for – it's their raw appeal and charisma that will make them memorable for attendees.

Event organizers should meet with any potential keynote speaker prior to confirming their involvement with the trade show, and ensure that the keynote address will inspire, teach, and provide attendees with a positive outlook for the remainder of the exhibition.

• Credibility. Does the speaker work for Google or hold a position of high esteem? Have they had enormous success? Examples include: military, professional or Olympic athletes and coaches.

• Authority. What makes them an authority on the topic? Perhaps they have written a book on the topic, or been interviewed on TV, featured in the New York Times or even given a TED talk. These are all trust signals.

• Charisma, passion, humor, audience involvement and high ENERGY are all proven winners. Think Gary Vaynerchuk. He has an incredible personal story and audiences can feel his passion.

• Call to Action and a key message. What does the speaker want your audience to do next? Make sure there is a clear next step offered in the speech. The best speakers inspire their audience to make positive change.

Visit potential speakers’ websites to view video clips and testimonials. Check out their social media profiles -- a big following is a good sign. You might want to look into securing a guest speaker (ideally a big name within the industry) to break up the event calendar and draw more attention to the show.

Above all, trust your judgment and know your brand – a keynote speaker sets the tone for a trade show, and the power is in your hands!

Ever wish hiring a keynote speaker was easier? Download the Event Organizer's Guide to Keynote Presentations here.

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MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy. Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative. Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates. The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities. MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025. MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.

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