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What You Need To Know About A Speakers Bureau And How They Work

by John Hall of Calendar
Finding and booking a keynote speaker who will inspire and motivate your audience is no easy task. Even if you are fortunate enough to find an ideal speaker that meets your criteria, you still have to negotiate the speaker’s fees, draw-up contracts, and figure out travel arrangements. Here are details you need to know about a Speakers Bureau and how they work.
There is a possibility the speaker won’t meet your expectations because they don’t exactly speak well, aren’t familiar with your objectives, or are difficult to work with. What I’m conveying here is: some keynote speakers actually believe themselves to be – well – Beyonce. Keep in mind, you know the type of person your organization expects you to provide. And, you are working with a keynote speaker, after all.

When I give a keynote, the organizers come and enthusiastically ask about my favorite Speakers Bureau. Who do my other speaker friends like? I’ll be honest, it’s hit or miss and I don’t advertise any on my site.

Organizers immediately jump to people or bureau’s on my site, when in reality — I love dealing directly with an organizer to create a close  relationship. However, I really understand the value of a Speakers Bureau and think they are sometimes a good fit for an organization to hire.

Here are five benefits that will catapult you into their competent hands to start working with them today.

An obvious point for both speakers and the organizer is that Speakers Bureaus have become pretty amazing at handling logistics. Relations between you, the speaker, fees, transport, accommodations, timing, and communication – they rock this space.
The bureau has your back, every step in planning your event. I can’t underscore enough what it means to forge a lasting relationship with someone you can always rely on — like the bureau. 

Most speaking bureaus add about 20 to 30 percent of additional costs. 

With a bureau, you can miss the chance to form a stronger relationship. Some speakers are influential people with good connections. If the speaker likes you, there’s a good chance they’ll help you in the future. Think strategy here, just as you do for any business arrangement

Frequently Asked Questions

The Planning Stage

  • The speaker I want doesn’t match the budget I’m working with. How can I find someone similar?

    Fee ranges are a normal part of searching for a speaker, and the speaker who most quickly comes to mind may not be one that matches your fee range. When you have a clear idea of the type of presentation your event needs, your Real Champions League Agent can help you find a speaker who checks the box on your budget and knocks it out of the park on stage. If you’re not sure which type of speaker you’re looking for, contact us and let us put our expertise to work for you.

  • Will I have the opportunity to connect with the speaker prior to my event?

    Many of our speakers, or speaker’s representatives, are available for a briefing call prior to each event. This gives you the chance to explain your event, your audience, and convey any details you feel would be helpful for your speaker. If that level of detail is necessary for your event, please be sure to include a briefing call in the contract that you coordinate with your Real Champion League Agent.

  • The speaker that I’m looking for is not on your website. Do I need to look elsewhere?

    Real Champions League Agency partners with most every speaking agency for that very reason. Let your agent know who you are looking for and we will reach out to the representing bureau to secure that speaker for your event – all at no additional cost to you.

Speaker Logistics

  • How do I coordinate travel and other logistical arrangements for my speaker?

    Your assigned Event Services Manager will make all your speaker’s travel arrangements. Once travel arrangements have been finalized and confirmed, you will be provided with a detailed itinerary.

  • In the event of inclement weather, will my speaker be able to get to my event?

    Weather happens! Real Champions League prides itself on planning for the unexpected. So, in all kinds of weather our team makes every effort possible to get your speaker to the event, while keeping you updated every step of the way.

The Day of the Event

  • I would like to have books available for my conference guests. Can I purchase books?

    Book availability and pricing details vary by each speaker. If you are interested in purchasing books for your event, please make arrangement by contacting your Real Champions League Event Services Manager.

Speaker Contracts and Agreements

  • I signed a contract for a one-hour presentation; however, my boss would now like to add a 30-minute speaker reception afterwards. Is that possible?

    Modifications can be made to a contract if the new requests are addressed in a timely manner. All contractual changes should be addressed with your Real Champions League Agent.

  • Can I record video/audio of my speaker’s presentation?

    Each speaker has their own parameters regarding the ability to record video or audio. Prior to the event, please check with your Real Champions League team on the specifics of including that in your speaker’s contract arrangements. 

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