Deciding you want a speaker for your event is only the first step. Finding good keynote speakers can be a challenge for anyone not well versed with the speaking industry. Speaker's bureaus are a great choice for event planners who want access to a variety of skilled public speakers.

What Is a Speakers Bureau?

A speaker's bureau works in a manner similar to a travel agent. The bureau maintains a list of many speakers they work with so they always have a list of available keynote speakers for your event. Some bureaus have speakers on a variety of topics while others specialize in certain types of speakers.

Event planners pay no fees for hiring a speaker through a bureau. The bureau makes its revenue from commissions paid by the speaker. Speakers like the partnership since the bureau gives them a wider range of potential clients. It allows the speakers to take breaks from working to deal with other situations without alienating their client base, since the bureau can find substitute presenters during this time.

The bureau uses their knowledge of the industry and event organization to assist the planner in choosing the right speaker for the event. Keynote speakers who work well for certain gatherings might not be idea for others. This can be due to the speaker's area of expertise, presentation style, or geographic availability. The bureau acts as a matchmaker, linking up planners with the best speakers for their needs. It is an arrangement that benefits all parties involved.

Why Use a Speakers Bureau?

One problem with hiring a speaker directly is you never know what you are getting. Is the speaker demanding or chronically late to events? Bureaus know the keynote speakers they work with and know something about their abilities and professionalism. The bureau's reputation rides on the capabilities of their speakers so it is in their interest to place speakers who have a history of great performance.

The fear of every planner is the speaker who doesn't show up. Even the most dedicated professionals have emergencies and may have to cancel an appearance. A bureau can choose from their roster of thousands of other speakers to line up a replacement even at short notice. This service can keep an event from turning into a disaster.

If you have a favorite speaker, don't be worried that using a bureau will freeze out this presenter. Bureaus don't have exclusive lists of clients. In effect, all speakers work for all bureaus. There may be a handful of celebrity speakers who work with specific bureaus, but in most cases any presenter can be hired with this arrangement.

There is really no downside to using a speaker's bureau. Many organizations prefer this arrangement to working with keynote speakers directly.