What Makes a Great Keynote Speaker?
If you have ever been to a conference, you know the routine. A welcome speech usually precedes breakout sessions and smaller talks before the big keynote at the end of the event.
But rather than simply cap off a conference, team-building event, or tradeshow, what if a keynote speech really hammered it all home? What if the keynote speech was something the audience was clamoring for rather than something purely used to mark time?
The key to a good keynote speech is purpose. And the key to purpose in a keynote speech is a keynote speaker who knows what they are doing.
In this article, you’ll learn the answer to the question: “What is a keynote speaker?” You’ll also discover the key facets of keynote speaking that separates good speakers from great ones.
What is the Difference Between a Keynote Speaker and a Main Speaker?
Before we dive into defining what is a keynote speaker, we need to first define the role.
A keynote speaker is one who is paid by conference or event planners to cap off their event. They usually work alone, though sometimes they may participate in a Q&A-style conversation with an event host. Regardless of the format of their speech, they offer the cornerstone experience of a conference or executive event. They set the tone for the overall event.
A main speaker, on the other hand, is expected to go even deeper. They should offer greater layers of detail about the conference’s focus through subsequent talks, sessions, and more.
In short, a keynote speaker offers a one-off experience for event guests, whereas a main speaker may be more involved throughout the event.
The Keys to Great Keynote Speaking
Now that we understand the keynote speaker meaning, we can identify what makes for a great keynote speaker. Here are the key elements to get excited for:
Preparation
Before a keynote speaker takes the stage, there’s usually a lot of prep work to be done. This is the case for both physical and virtual events. Keep in mind that great keynote speakers don’t simply hit the stage and wing it. Instead, they typically meet with conference planners, executive clients, and more to better understand the theme of the event.
Once a full debrief is complete, the motivational speaker will typically form a presentation outline. This outline should tie core themes back to elements that were identified during the discovery conversation.
Some back and forth is natural during this step as the keynote speaker and their client(s) hammer out the details. They might discuss what to include (and omit) in the final presentation.
Great Public Speaking
A keynote speaker should be at home with a mic in their hand. That’s because great keynote speeches are delivered using the core public speaking skills that we all abide by. Namely:
Preparation (see above)
Audience Understanding (see below)
Organization (using an outline to prepare their speech)
Editing (no one-size-fits-all speeches here!)
Genuineness (the speaker was brought on as a personality, after all)
Accessible Language (employing humor, anecdotes, and intentional word choice)
Memorization (great speeches aren’t read, they’re spoken)
Confident Body Language (no explanation needed)
Dynamic Openers and Closers (the keys to keep an audience engaged)
Few Distractions (keep the focus on the speaker)
While many keynote speakers will do things in their own style, there’s no silver bullet. Many effective public speakers will employ some combination of the skills above.
Thematic Alignment
Great keynote speeches are about more than simple anecdotes. Speakers should be thought leaders. They should have something to say, offering insightful perspectives and guided thinking along the way. They should also always tie back to the core theme of the event.
Imagine an executive conference that is about boosting sales. An ill-prepared keynote speaker might offer some generic platitudes about “being your best” or “always striving to improve.” But a conference keynote speaker who understands the audience is equipped. They can align the themes of their stories with the challenges and potential solutions that are relevant to the audience’s day-to-day.
Thematic alignment is what makes for great keynote speaking. It keeps the audience engaged, keeps the content relevant, and helps generate a purpose for the event.
Charisma
A motivational keynote speaker should be an inspiration both on and off the stage. That’s because a conference keynote speaker’s work isn’t done when the curtain drops. There are usually countless opportunities for more intimate engagements after the big speech. Expectations to share their unique perspective include:
Book signings
Wrap up breakouts
Mix and mingle corporate events
VIP dinners
And more.
Ultimately, a great keynote speaker should embody the themes of their keynote speech. After all, inspirational speakers are more than just a big name. They are there to truly motivate and inspire.
Confidence is key when working as an inspirational and motivational keynote speaker. One should effortlessly inspire companions and strangers alike with off-the-cuff insights that carry their theme even further.
More than anything, guests expect a keynote speaker to be personally consistent, not to code-switch from event to event.
Learn More from Magician and Keynote Speaker Jon Dorenbos
Jon Dorenbos is no stranger to the keynote stage. His motivational keynote speeches have captivated and inspired corporate audiences for years. And all with charisma, thematic alignment, and a keen sense of awe.
Breaking into public speaking can be hard. If you want more insights about the keys to great keynote speaking, take it from the man who knows it through and through. This bestselling author and great speaker has helped inspire countless audiences with his one-of-a-kind talks.