What Is a Speakers Bureau? Your Guide to Better Event Planning
by Holly Ransom: Global leadership speaker, interviewer, event host and CEO of Emergent Leadership Development
Planning a standout event is no small feat—one that leaves an indelible mark on attendees is both an art and a science. It’s about weaving together the right elements, from ambiance to content. At the heart of this challenge lies one crucial element: finding the right keynote speaker.
That’s where speakers bureaus step in. These professional agencies simplify event planning by connecting you with expert keynote speakers who align with your goals and audience. Far from being just a directory of names, speakers bureaus act as strategic partners, ensuring every aspect of your speaker selection and event logistics is seamless.
As a professional keynote speaker, event host, and interviewer for the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of collaborating with some of the top speakers bureaus in the U.S. and Australia. Their meticulous attention to detail, unwavering commitment to excellence, and knack for weaving impactful narratives have been instrumental in bringing events to life.
If you’re wondering how a speakers bureau can transform your event, here’s everything you need to know.
Key Takeaways
Speakers bureaus are professional agencies that connect event organisers with expert speakers.
They provide guidance and access to a wide range of specialists, assisting in speaker selection, managing logistics, and creating successful events.
With the help of top speakers bureaus such as Executive Speakers Bureau, virtual or live events can be successfully managed through pre-event rehearsals, interactive content delivery and more.
What Do Speakers Bureaus Do?
A speakers bureau is an agency that represents professional speakers and connects them with event planners. These bureaus take the guesswork out of speaker selection, handling everything from matching speakers to event objectives to managing contracts and travel logistics.
Here’s a breakdown of what a speakers bureau typically does:
Matches Speakers to Events: Speaker bureaus connect you with speakers who fit your event’s theme, objectives, and budget.
Handles Logistics: From contracts to travel arrangements, they manage all the details.
Quality Assurance: Reputable bureaus thoroughly vet their speakers. They ensure that the speakers have a history of delivering engaging talks, have received positive feedback from previous events, and maintain a professional demeanour.
Adapts to Event Needs: Whether you’re hosting in-person, virtual, or hybrid events, bureaus provide speakers with the skills to succeed in any format.
Looking for speaker selection tips? Check out my guide on How to Find the Best Conference Keynote Speaker.
Why Work With a Speakers Bureau?
Partnering with a speakers bureau makes event planning easier and more efficient. Here’s how:
Saves Time: Let bureaus handle the speaker search, so you can focus on other event details.
Logistics Made Simple: From managing contracts to travel and tech requirements, bureaus take care of all the behind-the-scenes details.
Reliable Backup Options: Unexpected cancellations? No problem. Bureaus have a network of ready-to-go professionals who can step in and save the day..
Spotlight on Top Speakers Bureaus
Top U.S. Speakers Bureaus I’ve Had the Pleasure of Collaborating With
If you’re planning an event in the United States, these leading speakers bureaus can help make your event a success:
Executive Speakers Bureau, located in the vibrant heart of Tennessee, USA, is a distinguished agency that has made significant contributions to the event planning and speaking industry ever since 1993. With a comprehensive client list of high-caliber speakers, Executive Speakers Bureau is recognised for its exceptional service and unwavering support to event organisers.
SpeakInc is a prominent speakers bureau and the largest of its kind in the western U.S.. This bureau is renowned for its vast and varied selection of motivational, business and celebrity speakers, making it a favoured choice for many event planners.
Gotham Artist, nestled in the vibrant heart of New York City, is a boutique speaker bureau revered for its rich history and commitment to excellence. This bureau, renowned for its eclectic array of top-tier speakers, plays a vital role in aiding organisations to secure the world’s most influential speakers and entertainers for a diverse array of events. From academic institutions to corporate boardrooms to large-scale festivals, Gotham Artist is instrumental in crafting and delivering impactful live and virtual event programming.
My experience with each of these bureaus has been nothing short of excellent, They’ve been instrumental in the success of many events I’ve been a part of, and their steady support and expertise have made the event planning process a breeze.
Other Top Speakers Bureaus in the U.S.
Premiere Speakers Bureau stands as a premier speaker agency, boasting some of the best speakers in the realms of business and motivation. With speakers covering topics such as: mental health, leadership, management, and education, Premiere Speakers Bureau can provide the perfect speaker for any event.
Washington Speakers Bureau is known for its high-profile political, sports, and other business speakers and leaders, ensuring a successful and engaging event experience. With a roster that includes renowned names such as Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, and Colin Powell, Washington Speakers Bureau provides event organisers with access to some of the most influential figures in American history.
Eagles Talent Speakers Bureau offers a diverse range of speakers for various event types, with a focus on inclusivity and representation. Their roster of exceptional speakers includes renowned speakers such as Magic Johnson, Tony Robbins, and Steve Wozniak, ensuring a memorable event experience.
Top Australian Speakers Bureaus I’ve Had the Pleasure of Collaborating With
Inspire Speakers is a Sydney-based speaker agency, that has been connecting event organisers with expert speakers since 2014. Known for its comprehensive roster of speakers across various fields, Inspire has a reputation for providing top-notch service and ensuring a seamless event planning process. I’ve been collaborating with Inspire for the past couple of years and their advocacy on my behalf has been an absolute gift. 10/10 recommend!
Growth Faculty, is an another remarkable Australian-based speakers bureau that I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Known for its commitment to fostering growth and development in businesses and individuals, Growth Faculty brings together some of the world’s most influential thought and business leaders, authors, and speakers under one roof.
Some of the recent highlights of my experience with Growth Faculty was touring Australia and New Zealand with James Clear and Adam Grant. Touring with these two thought leaders was not only an enriching experience but also a testament to the kind of high-caliber international speakers that Growth Faculty brings together.
Navigating Virtual and Live Events with a Speakers Bureau
As the world adapts to digital events, bureaus have embraced the shift, offering expert guidance and support for online engagements. At the same time, live events continue to hold a special place in the event industry, providing unique opportunities to create experiences for people to connect and share their experiences.
Adapting to the Digital Shift: Virtual Event Planning
In the wake of the digital shift, speakers bureaus have adapted their services to accommodate virtual event planning. By providing expert advice and assistance, bureaus ensure that online events run smoothly and deliver the same level of impact as live events.
To guarantee audience engagement in virtual events, bureaus can:
Conduct pre-event rehearsals
Facilitate networking and chatrooms
Select engaging speakers or presenters
Present interactive content
Moreover, bureaus can equip speakers with the necessary tools and training to thrive in a virtual environment.
A partnership with a speakers bureau for virtual event planning grants event organisers access to a wealth of knowledge and support.
Selecting the Perfect Keynote Speaker for Your Event
Finding the perfect keynote speaker can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but when you get it right—wow, it changes everything. A great speaker doesn’t just deliver a talk; they connect, inspire, and create those “aha” moments that stay with your audience long after the event is over. They have the power to set the tone, spark meaningful conversations, and leave a lasting impact.
If you’re wondering where to start, I’ve put together a guide on How to Find the Best Conference Keynote Speaker for Your Event. It’s a comprehensive guide that delves into the nuances of selecting the right speaker who can resonate with your audience, communicate your event’s theme effectively, and leave a lasting impression.
And if you’re on the hunt for inspiration, check out my Top 10 Leadership Speakers in 2023. It’s a curated list of incredible speakers who know how to captivate a room, whether you’re planning a corporate event, a leadership seminar, or a motivational workshop. These are the kinds of speakers who don’t just talk—they transform your event into an experience your audience won’t forget.
Why Speakers Bureaus Are a Game-Changer
Think of speakers bureaus as the masterminds behind the magic, weaving together the perfect tapestry of voices and visions to elevate any event. As the event world quickens with new trends and technologies, top-tier bureaus, are reshaping the narrative for both virtual and live audiences alike. When you collaborate with a speakers bureau, you’re not just booking a speaker; you’re crafting an unforgettable journey, sparking moments that resonate long after the curtain falls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does a speakers bureau play?
A speakers bureau serves as a bridge, linking clients with the best keynote speakers around, conference facilitators, celebrity guests, and motivational speakers. Utilising the services of a speakers bureau allows you to curate engaging panels, workshops, and events that will leave a lasting impression on attendees.
Should you join a speakers bureau?
Joining a bureau is a great early-career strategy since they can guide you towards opportunities and negotiate higher fees for you. These connections will also help your speaking business in many ways, since they interact with so many speakers and event planners alike.
What steps should I take to become a professional speaker?
If you’re aiming to carve out a career as a professional speaker, it’s crucial to hone your expertise in a specific subject matter, develop your public speaking abilities, master the art of speech writing, and maintain a professional online presence. Start your speaking journey by offering free talks locally and gradually build your reputation and increase your speaking fees.
Looking for a speaker, host or moderator for your next event?
Chat to us today to see how Holly can help bring your event objectives to life!
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