October 10, 2022

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Return on investment is essential when spending a lot of money on something. A keynote speaker can be a valuable but costly investment, especially if the speaker is well-known.

Event professionals want to get the most out of their speakers. So, is it appropriate to invite your speaker to other activities at your event? The answer is yes.

While an invitation doesn’t mean an acceptance, there’s no harm in extending invites to other activities during your event. It could work in your favor and result in unexpected, unique engagement opportunities between the speaker and attendees, VIP clients, company executives, etc.

After contracting your speaker and finalizing your schedule, share event activities that may interest them. If travel permits, they may be excited to attend other events, pre- or post-speech.

Invitation Tips:

? Consider inviting them to a welcome reception, special dinners, or even afternoon activities where they can engage with attendees while having fun.

? Position the invite: “It would be an honor to have you at XYZ. If your schedule permits and you’re interested, we’d love to have you join us.”

? Ask if they’d be open to a VIP dining experience before or after their speech with company execs (e.g., the person who introduces them to stage).

The payoff:

? Your speaker feels included.
? Your attendees can engage on a more personal level.
? You increase ROI at no additional cost.

Have you invited your keynote to social events? Share your experience in the COMMENTS below. ⏬