Are you looking for a professional speaker for your next meeting or event?
We have experienced professional members who can serve your needs. Our members have met rigorous qualification requirements so you can be assured of getting knowledgeable and practiced professionals to work with you. Our network is a great resource for help, guidance, support, information and referrals, too!
Please contact your speaker(s) of choice directly by using the contact information from the individual member pages. It may be beneficial for you to reference our information about choosing a speaker, particularly if you have not done so previously.
Would you like guidelines for what to consider when choosing a speaker for your next meeting, event, or workshop?
Many have questions regarding their search for the perfect speaker. Allow us to address some of the most frequently asked questions…
Finding the Right Speaker for You
The success or failure of most meetings, seminars, and conferences can be traced directly to the "quality" and "fit" of the speakers. Therefore, considerable effort should be directed toward the selection of topics and speakers for your events. The following steps should be taken when identifying topics and speakers:
- Identify the topics that will be of interest to your attendees by surveying members or by conducting brainstorming sessions with committees or boards
- Review the "Speakers by Topic Categories" section of this web site to identify appropriate speakers and review their credentials under the "Alphabetical Listing of Speakers"
- Discuss your upcoming event with those speakers that you feel best fit the topics you have identified.
- Preview a live performance or an audio or video cassette demo of those speakers that you feel are best qualified to meet your speaking needs. Ask for references and discuss potential speakers with their past clients.
Negotiating an Agreement
It is important that both you, the client, and the speaker reach agreement on all the details related to the speaking engagement. Therefore, the following items should be covered:
- Discuss all the specifics of the event including topic, date, time, location, audience, speaker responsibilities beyond speaking, audio visual requirements, possible cancellation, and fees and expenses.
- Agree in writing to all the specifics. A sample "Independent Contractor Agreement" is included on this web site.
Finalizing the Details
Following up on all the details will ensure a successful event. Some of the details that may need attention include:
- Inform the speaker of the size and make-up of the audience as the registrations for the event are received.
- Send the speaker information about local transportation, hotel reservations (including check-out instructions if applicable), and publicity about the presentation.
- Request the speaker send you a written introduction with instructions on how it should be delivered (read verbatim, select appropriate items, etc.).
- Arrange for any audio visual equipment required and keep the speaker informed of these arrangements.
- Plan your event so the session begins on time and the speaker has adequate time to provide your audience with the information you have mutually agreed will be delivered.
What is a CSP?
The Certified Speaking Professional designation, established in 1980 by the National Speakers Association (NSA), is the speaking profession’s international measure of professional platform skill.
CSP is conferred by the US-based National Speakers Association and by the National Speakers Association of Australia only on those who have earned it by meeting strict criteria. The letters CSP following a speaker’s name indicate a speaking professional with proven experience who understands what is required and knows how to deliver client satisfaction.
Why Should You Hire a CSP? It will make your job easier! The success of your meeting will be judged largely on the caliber, professionalism and appropriateness of the topic and presenter(s) you select. Choosing a CSP maximizes your opportunity of providing a speaker with a message that will focus, elevate and enhance the mission of your meeting and stick firmly in the memories, attitudes and action plans of your attendees.
How Many CSPs Are There? Less than 7% of the speakers who belong to the International Federation for Professional Speakers hold this professional designation. The membership of the International Federation for Professional Speakers is comprised of professional speaking associations worldwide. CSP is the international standard that these associations agree represent competence in the speaking profession.
What Benefit Does a CSP Bring to Your Meeting? A CSP brings a proven track record of continuing speaking experience and expertise. CSPs are committed to ongoing education, outstanding service and ethical behavior. CSPs offer wide varieties of approaches, topics and styles. Only you can determine which speaker will best fit your needs. A Certified Speaking Professional provides a solid place with which to begin your search.
What Are the Criteria? Every CSP must...
- Maintain membership and subscribe to the Code of Professional Ethics
- Serve a minimum of 100 different clients within 5 years
- Present a minimum of 250 professional speaking engagements within this same 5-year period
- Submit testimonial letters from clients served
- Submit professionally prepared promotional materials
- Receive excellent ratings from past clients on professional performance evaluations
- Continue education in the professional speaking field.