Three Conversations Every Meeting Planner Should Be Having: The Keynote Is Becoming the Beginning, Not the End

One of the more interesting changes we’ve noticed this year is what happens after the keynote. Keynote speakers, pay attention…this is a big opportunity for you.
Five years ago, many engagements ended when the applause stopped. Today, organizations are increasingly asking speakers to stay involved. Sometimes that means consulting. Sometimes executive coaching. Sometimes a leadership series, virtual follow ups, or multiple workshops throughout the year.

Why?

Because trust has already been established. Prep work has already been done. Candid communication has already been exchanged about problems, opportunities, and vision for the future. Once an organization invests the time to educate a speaker about its business, challenges, and culture, there is tremendous value in continuing that relationship rather than starting over with someone new.

This trend is especially common among organizations focused on leadership development, employee engagement, and workforce upskilling. Many have Learning and Development budgets specifically designed for long term growth rather than one day inspiration.

However, not every keynote speaker is built for this work.

The ones who succeed tend to have deep business experience, multiple areas of expertise, and a genuine interest in building long term relationships instead of simply delivering a speech.

One final thought from the bureau side: We love seeing speakers develop long term relationships with our clients. In fact, it’s something we actively encourage. The only request? Keep your bureau partner involved. The strongest partnerships are built on transparency, whether it’s another keynote, a consulting engagement, or an ongoing advisory role. When everyone stays connected, everybody wins, especially the client.

My Closing Thoughts

The keynote industry continues to evolve, and that’s one of the reasons I enjoy being part of it. After nearly a decade in this space, I cannot imagine another career that pairs the joy of serving our clients with challenge of having to be a continuous learning. We play in all industries, and that’s what makes this work so interesting and exciting.

Meeting planners expect more. Audiences expect more. Speakers continue to find new ways to deliver value beyond the stage. That’s good for our industry, and even better for the organizations we serve.

What trends are you seeing with your own meetings and events?

I’d love to hear your perspective in the comments. Have a great fall season!