what makes a great keynote speech

Here’s an Excellent Keynote Speech GUIDE: With 2 Great Examples

You’ve probably been asked to give a keynote speech and you are afraid of it. Well, if you’ve never done this before, then there’s no need to panic. Thankfully, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s start with the basics, shall we? 

So, what is a keynote speech? 

Being asked to give a keynote speech in front of a large audience can be a little intimidating. However, it’s the greatest honor to be selected as a keynote speaker. That said, you must deliver the best speech you possibly can. 

Now that we’ve covered what a keynote speech is, it’s time to key steps that you should take when preparing a keynote speech. 

How to prepare a keynote speech

Keynote speeches are very important. With that in mind, it’s one of the best opportunities for you and your business. Therefore, if you’ve been asked to be the keynote speaker, take advantage of such an opportunity. But, first, you will have to prepare your speech: 

1.     Find out the theme for the day

Basically, there are three main types of speeches. They include motivational, educational, and entertaining speeches. Start by deciding the type of speech you’d like to go with. But whatever your choice will be, remember that you are going up there to add value to your audience and not brag about your achievements and who you are. Therefore, if you are not going to motivate, educate, or even entertain your audience, then there’s no reason for you do go up there. Don’t do it, period!

2.     Outline your presentation

Before jumping into designing your presentation, the first step is to ensure you have a clear outline of your speech. The structure is vital to the design of your keynote speech and also to your delivery of it all. 

Sadly, most speakers always skip this part. And, it’s usually visible in their delivery and line of thought. The best way to handle this situation is by creating a sort of blueprint for your presentation which will include: 

3.     Now fill each section

Make sure that you are brief and clear when filling each section. More importantly, don’t crowd up your content. You will also need to ensure you have most of the keywords in your mind. This will save you the time you use to check on your keynote speech instead of maintaining eye contact with the crowd. 

4.     Make the work visually attractive

Without a doubt, you should always ensure that your work has some visual ideas that would be easy to interpret. Add graphs or charts where necessary, but only where necessary. Too much of anything will lead to you losing the attention of your audience. 

5.     Add personal stories

Play a game, add a question, or simply just maintain eye contact with your audience. This will help you gain their full attention throughout your speech. 

6.     Finally, rehearse

There’s no shortcut in this section. For you to present a killer speech in front of your audience without sounding nervous is through research. By rehearsing your speech several times, you can understand what it means to your audience and also see places where you can improve your speech. 

Now that you already know how to get ready for your speech, let’s take on how to open a keynote speech. 

The next points of discussion are: how to open a keynote speech, how long should a keynote speech be, and some great examples of keynote speeches. Before digging into that, let me add below some of the top related and interesting articles that can add to what you’re learning from this one. If any of the titles picks your interest, please click and open in a new tab, so you can check them out later. Enjoy!

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Top 7 core interpersonal skills in leadership.

At any time, a leader is seen as one who guides one or more people to fulfill something stipulated; today, however, we understand that this journey comprises the achievement of results and the evolution, in some way, of all who participate in the process. Leaders are people with high power to inspire those around them,…

An Easy Guide to All 15 Types of Speech

How to open a keynote speech.

The audience will lean in to try and hear your first few words. And at that moment, the audience will form their first impression of you with the first words you utter. An example of the first opening words include, ‘um, good evening everyone….I’m happy to be here in front of you. I will like to thank you so-so-so-so much…..’

To get the full attention of your audience, here are some quick tips on your opening statements. 

Before we go into how to open your keynote speech…

I would like to announce that you can get more insightful tips and how-to’s from our recently launched eBook, now available at Barnes & Noble , at $4.99. We tried to pack it with valuable information and price it below $5 to be as inclusive as possible with our pricing. Click below and Get a Copy!

Key tips on the opening statement in your keynote speech

How long should a keynote speech be.

You will know when the keynote does not last long enough when the message said by the speaker doesn’t have a deep effect on the audience. Additionally, the length of the keynote speech depends on the time allocated to the event. 

Examples of Excellent Keynote Speeches 

If you follow the instructions above, you won’t even need examples to sharpen your skills. However, here are some of the examples you can check out to give you a deeper understanding of keynote speeches

To wrap it all up…

A keynote speech is an incredible way to get over public speaking and be able to introduce yourself to the audience. It doesn’t matter the number of people in the gathering. Always remember to count every opportunity that comes your way. 

REFERENCES & FURTHER READING

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• Presentations
• Public Speaking

What Is a Keynote Speech? (+10 Speaker Tips to Deliver Powerfully)

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Being asked to give a keynote speech can be a little intimidating, especially if you've never given one before. You may even be wondering: what is a keynote address?

Keynote speeches are important and being asked to give a keynote talk can be a great opportunity for you and your business. So, if you're asked, consider taking advantage of the opportunity. But first, you'll need to learn a little bit more about keynote speeches.

In this short tutorial, we'll cover what you need to know about giving a keynote message. We'll provide you with a keynote address definition. We'll provide you with some good keynote speech examples. Plus, we'll cover ten tips to help you become a better keynote speaker.

For valuable tips on how to create a top-notch presentation, be sure to download our free eBook:   The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations .  It'll help you master the complete presentation process.

What Is a Keynote Speech?

So, you're probably wondering what a keynote speech is and how it differs from any other speech you might give. A keynote address is typically given to set the theme for an event . Examples might include the main speaker at business conference or even a guest speaker at a graduation.

Keynote speakers are sometimes well-known figures or even celebrities. In other instances, depending upon the audience, they may just be someone who's very accomplished in their field. Keynote speakers are often paid for their services and a professional keynote speaker who is in demand can earn quite a bit. Even if you've never given a keynote message before, being asked to give one is both an honor and a great opportunity.

Keynote speeches are usually based on the speaker's own experiences and knowledge. They can also include motivational and inspirational elements. Effective keynote speakers often make use of storytelling as well. But the most important factor for keynote message success is audience engagement. The keynote speaker needs to capture and hold the audience's attention and set the tone for the entire event.

If you're trying to learn about a particular type of public speaking, hearing an example can help. One good example of a good keynote speech comes from Oprah Winfrey, who gave the keynote address at the 2018 commencement for the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. You can listen to her speech for yourself:

For even more examples of effective speeches, many of which could serve as keynote addresses, study this roundup of some of my favorite Ted Talks:

How to Make Your Presentation Stand Out With a Slideshow

If the keynote address you'll be giving will include a slideshow presentation, you need to make sure that slideshow is the best it can be. Part of making effective use of a slideshow is to make sure that your presentation design is attractive and eye-catching. Admittedly, this can be tough to do if you're not a professional designer.

Fortunately, there's any easy way to create an engaging slideshow even if you're not a designer yourself. Envato Elements is a great way to find beautiful presentation templates for any need. These professionally designed templates will help your slideshow to really stand out. Plus, you'll be able download stock photos, WordPress and web templates, graphics, and more—all for a single flat rate! Download as much as you need as often as you need it. This is just the type of service a busy professional needs.

 But even if you're sure you're only going to give the one presentation and you don't need any of the other assets available through Envato Elements, we've still got you covered. You can purchase an affordable, one-time download of a professional slideshow template through GraphicRiver.

Now that you know where to find good slideshow templates, you may be wondering which templates to pick. The template roundup below can help:

Now that we've discussed how to use a slideshow for your keynote message, it's time to examine some tips for giving a better keynote speech.

Speaker Tips for Giving a Keynote Speech

You're pulling your keynote message together and you need to make sure it's effective. But it's been a while since you've given a speech, or maybe this is your first one. How can you make sure your speech is a success?

Here are ten tips for public speakers that'll help you deliver a powerful keynote address:

1. Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience is vital for any public speaker, but it's especially important for keynote speakers since it's vital that they establish rapport with their audience and also because they set the tone for the entire event. So, as early in the speech preparation as possible, give some thought to who you'll speaking to. Tailor your speech to their needs and interests. Ask yourself these questions:

• Who'll be listening to this speech?
• What do they already know?
• What do they need to know?

What are these listeners interested in?

If you know nothing about your audience, try asking the contact person who invited you to speak.

2. Do Your Research

If you've been asked to give a keynote speech, there's a good chance that you're already quite familiar with your topic. But don't take that knowledge for granted. Double-check your facts. Also, look for recent developments and include any relevant updates to your material. Pay special attention to information that'll be useful to your listeners.

3. Tell a Story

Storytelling is a great way to connect with an audience. If you've got personal experiences that your audience can relate to turning those into a story can often help engage your audience. Even if you don't have personal experiences, you may be able to share the experiences of others. For example, sharing the story of how a client successfully overcame an obstacle may inspire your listeners—especially if they've faced a similar obstacle.

4. Consider Giving an Interactive Presentation

Adding an interactive element to your keynote message is another way to capture your audience's attention. There are several types of interactive elements you can add including getting audience feedback in real-time and incorporating a Q&A session into your presentation. To learn more about interactive presentations, review this tutorial:

5. Practice Your Speech

Like any other speech you might give, you should practice a keynote speech until you're very familiar with the material. Strive to know your speech topic so well that you could talk about it without your notes if you needed to. As you practice, use your presentation notes or outline as a prompt rather than reading your speech. If possible, practice the speech in front of a friend or family member who's willing to provide feedback. The following tutorial includes a checklist for practicing a speech that could be helpful:

6. Overcome Your Fear

Does the idea of getting in front of an audience and talking make you uncomfortable? Well, you're certainly not alone. Studies from the National Institute of Health (and other sources) have shown that as much as 77% of the general public may fear public speaking. With a keynote message the fear and pressure is sometimes greater since the presentation is such an integral part of the event. Fortunately, there are methods you can use to overcome the fear of public speak ranging from positive self-talk to body language and more. In the tutorial below you'll discover over 20 ways to fight the fear of public speaking:

7. Stay Focused on Your Goal

If you're giving a speech, it's easy to become distracted. Unfortunately, if you stray too far from your topic you're likely to lose the interest of your listeners. This is where your speaker notes can be particularly helpful. Make sure that your speaker notes are visible (and use a large enough font that you can read them easily). If you do lose your pace or feel you've gone off topic, don't be afraid of a brief pause while you check your outline. You can learn more about creating speaker notes to your presentation tool in these short tutorials:

8. Be Brief

Avoid overexplaining the topic of your keynote address. You can do this by stating each point once followed by your supporting detail for that point (including slides and other visual aids). Next, summarize the point and move on to the next point. If you expected the audience to react to a point and they don't respond in the manner you expected, resist the temptation to go back over the point. Finally, when your presentation is complete you can restate the main purpose of your talk. Being brief and being focused matter and the audience will appreciate you for it.

9. Get Enough Sleep

You probably already suspect that you're not at your best when you go without sleep. Now science supports what you've always suspected—lack of sleep negatively impacts your performance . So, do your best to get a good night's sleep before your keynote talk. But that may be easier said than done--especially if you're at a business conference where there's a temptation to stay up late socializing and visiting with colleagues and potential clients. There are some practical steps you can take, even when you're traveling, to improve your sleep. You'll find some of those steps in this tutorial:

10. Share It Online

Once your keynote address is over, you can still benefit from it. One way to do that is to share your speech online. Sharing your speech online helps you to reach a larger audience than you initially spoke too. There are a number of ways to share your speech online, including:

• YouTube.  This popular site is useful for sharing video presentations.
• Vimeo.  Another site that can help you to share a live presentation.
• Facebook live.  You can live stream your presentation through Facebook.
• Other social media . You can include a link to your presentation on most other social media sites.
• Your website . Including a video on your own website can be a great way to impress clients and prospective clients.
• SlideShare . If your keynote address included a slideshow presentation, you can share it on SlideShare.
• Email . You can also share links to your keynote speech through email.

To learn more about sharing your keynote address, study these tutorials:

Make Great Presentations ( Free PDF eBook Download )

We also have the perfect complement to this tutorial, which will walk you through the complete presentation process. Learn how to write your presentation, design it like a pro, and prepare it to present powerfully.

Download our new eBook:  The Complete Guide to Making Great Presentations . It's available for free with a subscription to the Tuts+ Business Newsletter.

Your Takeaways

You've just been given a keynote definition and some examples of great keynote speeches to follow. Now that you understand what a keynote address is and why it's important, you'll want to make your keynote message as good as possible. 

Even if you've never given a speech before, you can use the speaker tips in this article to give the best keynote address that you can. Once you've finished your keynote presentation, don't forget to share it for maximum impact. If you've enjoyed the tips in this tutorial, you may also enjoy our  Fundamentals of Public Speaking Learning Guide .

Have you given a keynote speech? What tips or advice would you add for others?

Editorial Note: This content was originally published in 2018. We're sharing it again because our editors have determined that this information is still accurate and relevant.

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What is a Keynote Speech: How to Leave a Lasting Impression

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As an event planner or someone responsible for organizing a conference or seminar, you understand the importance of finding the right keynote speaker.

A keynote speech sets the tone for the entire event, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. In this article, we will explore the world of keynote speeches and share insights on how to write and deliver a captivating keynote.

What is a Keynote Speech?

A keynote speech is a powerful presentation given by a keynote speaker at the beginning or end of an event.

It is designed to capture the audience’s attention, set the tone, and provide key takeaways that attendees can apply to their lives or work. A well-crafted and captivating keynote speech can inspire, motivate, and leave a lasting impact on the audience.

The Role of a Keynote Speaker

A keynote speaker plays a crucial role in the success of an event. They are experts in their field, often seasoned speakers who have honed their craft over years of experience.

A keynote speaker not only delivers a thought-provoking speech but also brings a unique perspective, shares personal stories, and engages the audience through humor, emotion, and relatability.

Writing a Captivating Keynote Speech

Writing a compelling keynote speech requires careful planning, organization, and a deep understanding of the audience. Here are some key steps to follow:

Understand Your Audience: Before writing your speech, spend time researching your audience. Who are they? What are their interests, challenges, and goals? Tailor your message to resonate with them.

Define Your Key Message: Every keynote speech should have a central theme or message that you want the audience to take away. Clarify this message and make it memorable.

Craft a Powerful Opening: Grab the audience’s attention from the start with a captivating story, intriguing statistic, or thought-provoking question. This will set the tone and create a sense of anticipation.

Organize Your Speech: Structure your speech logically and engagingly. Begin with an introduction, then move on to key points or stories, and end with a memorable conclusion that reinforces your key message.

Use Personal Stories: Personal stories are a powerful tool to connect with the audience emotionally. Share experiences or anecdotes that relate to your key message and make it relatable to the audience.

Incorporate Visuals: Visual aids such as slides or props can enhance your speech and make it more engaging. Use visuals sparingly to support your key points and avoid overwhelming the audience.

Practice and Rehearse: Delivering a flawless keynote speech requires practice. Rehearse your speech multiple times to ensure smooth delivery, confident body language, and effective use of pauses and intonation.

Engage with the Audience: Interact with the audience throughout your speech. Ask rhetorical questions, encourage participation, and create moments of connection. This will keep the audience engaged and make your speech memorable.

Tips for Giving a Motivational Keynote Address

Giving a keynote speech can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You have the unique opportunity to captivate an audience, inspire them, and leave a lasting impression. In this section, we’ll share some valuable tips to help you deliver a powerful keynote speech that engages your audience, conveys your message effectively, and ensures a memorable experience.

1. Know Your Audience Inside Out

Understanding your audience is crucial to giving a successful keynote speech. Research their demographics, interests, challenges, and goals. This knowledge helps you tailor your message to resonate with them and ensures that your content is relevant and relatable.

Connect with your audience by addressing their specific needs and aspirations. By showing that you understand them, you’ll build trust and captivate their attention from the start.

2. Craft a Clear and Compelling Key Message

Every great keynote speech has a clear and compelling key message. Define the central theme or idea you want to convey to your audience.

Keep it concise and memorable so that it resonates long after your speech concludes. Your key message should guide the entire structure and content of your speech, ensuring a cohesive and impactful presentation.

3. Start Strong with a Captivating Opening

The beginning of your keynote speech sets the tone for the entire presentation. Capture your audience’s attention from the outset with a powerful, attention-grabbing opening.

Engage them from the first moment with a captivating story, intriguing statistic, or thought-provoking question. A strong opening creates a sense of anticipation and hooks your audience, making them eager to hear more.

4. Structure Your Speech for Impact

A well-structured keynote speech keeps the audience engaged and enhances their understanding of your message. Organize your speech in a logical and impactful manner.

Begin with an introduction that establishes your credibility and builds rapport with the audience. Then, present key points or stories that support your key message. Finally, wrap up with a memorable conclusion that reinforces your main ideas and leaves a lasting imprint on your audience.

5. Use Stories to Connect Emotionally

One of the most powerful tools in a keynote speech is storytelling. Personal stories create an emotional connection between you and your audience. Share experiences or anecdotes that illustrate the key points of your speech.

Make them relatable and highlight the lessons learned. Emotionally compelling stories will leave a lasting impact, making your message memorable and inspiring.

6. Engage and Interact with Your Audience

Keep your audience engaged throughout your keynote speech by actively involving them. Ask rhetorical questions, encourage participation, or create moments of interaction.

This can be in the form of brief audience discussions, polls, or exercises. Interaction fosters connection and helps to break up the presentation, making it more dynamic and enjoyable for your listeners.

7. Utilize Visual Aids Effectively

Visual aids, such as slides or props, can enhance your keynote speech when used effectively. Use visuals sparingly and purposefully to support your key points, helping to reinforce your message visually.

Ensure your visual aids are clear, easy to read, and visually appealing. Remember, your spoken words should always be the main focus, with visual aids serving as supporting elements.

8. Practice, Practice, Practice

Delivering a flawless keynote speech requires practice and rehearsal. Practice speaking your speech out loud multiple times, focusing on your delivery, timing, and body language.

Rehearse in front of a mirror, record yourself, or seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors. This process allows you to refine your speech, build confidence, and ensure a smooth and impactful delivery.

9. Embrace Authenticity and Passion

Authenticity and passion are key to delivering a compelling keynote speech. Be true to yourself, speak from the heart, and let your enthusiasm shine through.

Your genuine passion for your topic will captivate and inspire your audience. Avoid trying to mimic someone else’s style or delivery. Embrace your unique voice and let your authenticity be the guiding force behind your speech.

10. Leave a Lasting Impression with a Memorable Conclusion

The way you conclude your keynote speech is just as important as how you start it. Summarize your main points, reiterate your key message, and provide a clear call-to-action for your audience to take away.

End on a high note, leaving your listeners feeling inspired and motivated. A memorable conclusion ensures that your speech lingers in their minds and prompts them to take action.

Finding the Right Keynote Speaker

When hosting a successful event, finding the right keynote speaker is paramount. This individual will not only set the tone for your gathering but also leave a lasting impression on your audience.

In this section, we will delve into the important factors to consider when searching for the perfect keynote speaker who will elevate your event to new heights.

Experience Speaks Volumes

Experience is a key ingredient in the recipe for a successful keynote speech. Look for speakers who have a proven track record of captivating audiences and delivering impactful presentations.

Seek out those who have spoken at similar events or within your industry, as they will have a better understanding of your audience’s needs and interests. Experienced speakers bring a certain expertise and authority that can leave a lasting impression on your attendees.

Expertise in Your Industry

While experience is important, finding a keynote speaker with expertise in your specific industry is a game-changer. These speakers have a deep understanding of the challenges, trends, and opportunities within your field.

They can relate to your audience on a deeper level and provide insights and anecdotes that resonate. By selecting a speaker with industry expertise, you are ensuring that your attendees receive targeted and relevant information that they can apply to their own work or lives.

Communication Skills that Command Attention

A keynote speaker may have an impressive resume and extensive knowledge in your industry, but if they lack communication skills , their impact will be diminished. Look for speakers who possess excellent public speaking abilities.

They should be able to engage the audience, hold their attention, and deliver their message with clarity and conviction. Seek out speakers who can combine storytelling, humor, and audience interaction to create a memorable experience.

Aligning with Your Event’s Goals

Every event has its own unique goals and objectives. When searching for a keynote speaker, it is crucial to find someone who aligns with your event’s overarching purpose. Consider what you want your attendees to take away from the event.

Do you want them to feel inspired, motivated, or educated? Look for speakers whose message and style resonate with your desired outcomes. Review their past performances and testimonials to gauge if they can deliver the results you are seeking.

Recommendations and Reviews

One of the best ways to find a keynote speaker is through recommendations from trusted sources. Industry colleagues, friends, or even professionals who have previously worked with speakers can provide valuable insights and firsthand recommendations.

Additionally, online platforms and speaker bureaus offer reviews and ratings from past clients, allowing you to make an informed decision. By tapping into the experiences of others, you can gain a sense of a speaker’s trustworthiness and suitability for your event.

Interviewing Potential Speakers

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential keynote speakers, it’s time to conduct interviews. This step allows you to assess their compatibility, professionalism, and understanding of your event.

Prepare a list of questions that delve into their experience, approach to speaking, and familiarity with your industry. During the interview, observe their communication style, responsiveness, and willingness to collaborate. A successful partnership with your speaker is essential for a seamless and impactful event.

Reviewing Past Performances

Before making a final decision, take the time to review recordings or videos of the potential speakers’ past performances. This will give you a firsthand glimpse into their presentation style, stage presence, and ability to engage an audience. Look for speakers who exhibit confidence, charisma, and an authentic connection with the audience.

Pay attention to their ability to tell compelling stories, convey key messages, and create an energized atmosphere. Trust your instincts and select a speaker who resonates with you and your event’s vision.

A well-crafted keynote speech has the power to captivate, motivate, and inspire an audience. By understanding your audience, crafting a compelling message, and delivering it with passion and authenticity, you can leave a lasting impression on your audience.

The right keynote speaker can elevate your event, set the tone, and create a memorable experience for attendees. So, take the time to find the perfect fit and unleash the power of a captivating keynote speech.

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How to Write a Keynote Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keynote speeches are an important part of many events, from corporate conferences and seminars to graduations and charity galas. If you have been tasked with delivering a keynote speech, you may be wondering where to start and how to create a presentation that will resonate with your audience. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll provide you with the tools and tips to help you write a compelling keynote speech that will leave a lasting impression on your listeners.

Understanding the Purpose of a Keynote Speech

A keynote speech serves as the foundation for the entire event. It sets the tone, establishes the main theme, and creates a connection between the speaker and the audience. Before you start working on your keynote speech, it's important to understand the various elements that make up a successful presentation.

When preparing for a keynote speech, it's important to consider the audience and their expectations. The speech should be tailored to the specific event and audience to ensure maximum impact. This means taking into account the demographics of the audience, their interests, and their level of expertise in the topic being discussed.

Additionally, a good keynote speech should be well-structured and organized. It should have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should grab the audience's attention and set the tone for the speech. The body should provide relevant and interesting information, and the conclusion should summarize the main points and leave the audience with a memorable takeaway.

Defining a Keynote Speech

A keynote speech is a presentation that is intended to inspire, motivate, and engage an audience. It's an opportunity for a speaker to share their ideas, vision, and insights on a particular topic. Unlike other presentations, a keynote speech is designed to be memorable and impactful. Good keynote speeches are able to capture the audience's attention and keep them engaged throughout the presentation.

One of the key elements of a successful keynote speech is the ability to tell a story. People are naturally drawn to stories, and a well-crafted story can help to convey a message in a memorable and impactful way. The story should be relevant to the topic being discussed and should help to illustrate the main points of the speech.

The Role of a Keynote Speaker

The role of a keynote speaker is to act as a thought leader and inspire the audience by conveying a compelling message that is relevant and meaningful to the event. They represent the values and goals of the event, and their speech should be aligned with the overall theme of the conference or gathering. The speaker should also be able to connect with the audience on a personal level, creating a memorable experience.

Another important aspect of being a keynote speaker is the ability to engage the audience. This can be done through the use of humor, storytelling, and interactive elements. Engaging the audience helps to keep them interested and invested in the presentation, which can lead to a more memorable and impactful experience.

Setting the Tone for the Event

A well-crafted keynote speech sets the tone for the entire event. The speech should establish the main theme, outline the goals of the conference, and motivate the audience to become more engaged. The speaker must understand the challenges facing the audience and offer insights that will help them overcome those obstacles.

In addition to setting the tone, a keynote speech can also help to build excitement and anticipation for the rest of the event. By providing a memorable and impactful experience, the audience will be more likely to stay engaged throughout the event and take away valuable insights and information.

Overall, a keynote speech is an important element of any event. It sets the tone, establishes the main theme, and creates a connection between the speaker and the audience. By understanding the various elements that make up a successful keynote speech, you can create a presentation that is memorable, impactful, and tailored to the specific needs of your audience.

Knowing Your Audience

One of the key elements of a successful keynote speech is understanding your audience. The more you know about the people you are addressing, the better equipped you are to craft a message that will resonate with them.

Researching Your Audience

Before you start writing your keynote speech, it's essential to research your audience. You need to know what their interests are, what motivates them, and what challenges they are facing. This will help you tailor your message to their needs and create a connection with them.

Adapting Your Message to the Audience

Once you have researched your audience, you need to adapt your message to their needs. This means using language and examples that resonate with them. You want to craft a message that is not only relevant but also compelling and memorable.

Engaging the Audience

Engaging your audience is the key to a successful keynote speech. You want to connect with them on a personal level and create an emotional response. This can be done through the use of storytelling, humor, and interactive exercises. It's essential to keep the audience engaged throughout your speech, so they leave feeling inspired and motivated.

Crafting a Compelling Message

A keynote speech needs to have a clear and compelling message that resonates with your audience. You want to provide insights and offer a new perspective that will leave a lasting impact.

Identifying Your Main Points

Your keynote speech should have a clear structure that outlines the main points you want to convey to your audience. Identify the key messages you want to communicate and how they relate to the event's theme. Make sure these key points are relevant to your audience.

Developing a Strong Thesis

Your thesis statement is the central message of your keynote speech. It should be clear, concise, and compelling. Your thesis should capture the main idea of your presentation and should be an underlying theme throughout your speech.

Using Stories and Examples

Stories and examples are a great way to engage your audience and make your message relatable. Use real-life examples and stories to illustrate your main points and help the audience understand the impact of your message.

Organizing Your Keynote Speech

The structure of your keynote speech is essential to its success. Proper organization helps the audience follow your message and stay engaged from start to finish.

Creating an Outline

A clear outline is the foundation of your presentation. It helps you create a roadmap that outlines the key elements of your keynote speech and ensures that you don't miss any important points. The outline should be structured in a logical order that makes sense to your audience.

Structuring Your Speech

Your keynote speech should have a clear structure that follows your outline. Begin with an opening that captures the audience's attention and establishes the main theme. Move on to the body of your speech, which should be structured around your main points. Finally, conclude your speech by summarizing your message and leaving the audience with a clear call to action.

Balancing Information and Entertainment

The best keynote speeches strike a balance between providing valuable information and entertaining the audience. You don't want to overload your listeners with too much information, as they may become overwhelmed. Use humor, personal anecdotes, and real-life examples to keep the audience engaged and entertained.

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Keynote Speech

Chatgpt prompt.

Please craft a speech that will serve as the main address at an event, providing a comprehensive and engaging overview of the theme or purpose of the occasion. This speech should be well-crafted and thoughtfully written, incorporating a clear and compelling message that resonates with the audience and leaves a lasting impression.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

Writing a successful keynote speech takes time, preparation, and effort. By following these step-by-step guidelines, you'll be able to create a speech that is engaging, inspiring, and memorable. Remember, the key to a successful keynote speech is understanding your audience, crafting a compelling message, and delivering it in an organized and entertaining way. So, get ready to inspire and motivate your audience with your powerful keynote speech!

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How to Write a Keynote Speech

Last Updated: October 28, 2022 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 108,882 times.

A good keynote speech is gripping and inspiring. It sets the tone for the event, program, or conference, and it can really unify the audience. If you’ve been invited to write and give a keynote speech (congrats!), you might not be sure where to start, or maybe you’re looking for tips to elevate your speech to the next level. Either way, we’ve got you covered! This article will walk you through how to craft a memorable keynote speech from start to finish.

Brainstorming Ideas for the Keynote Speech

• If there is a theme of the event, you may use this as your purpose or inspiration for the speech. For example, if the theme of the event is “Social Responsibility,” the purpose of your speech may be to explore your experiences with social responsibility on a professional and personal level.

• For example, if your audience is within an age range of 20-30 and are social responsibility advocates, you may make the speech light, engaging, and full of specialized language that you know your audience will understand.

• For example, if you are writing a speech around the theme of social responsibility, you may focus on three key points: the history of social responsibility, the current state of social responsibility, and where social responsibility is headed next.

• You can find the top keynote speeches of 2016 at https://www.bigspeak.com/best-keynote-speakers-of-2016 .

Crafting the Keynote Speech

• For example, if you are writing a keynote speech on diversity in the classroom, you may tell a story about a student of color that you worked with in your classroom as a teacher.
• You may also look in the news for a story about a student of color who publicly spoke out about difficulties with diversity in the classroom, preferably a news story based in your area or country.

• For example, if the purpose of your speech is to discuss social responsibility in the corporate world, you may open with a fact about how consumers tend to buy more if a brand is socially responsible.

• For example, your purpose may appear as, “I am here today to talk to you about social responsibility, the theme of this conference and the theme of much of my professional work.”

• For example, you may make a funny aside that is self-deprecating, such as, “I wasn’t always a great teacher. Sometimes, I was known as the fun teacher or the angry teacher. Not always the great one.”

• For example, you may highlight terms like “unity,” “engagement,” and “social consciousness” in your speech by returning to them at least twice. You may begin the speech by mentioning these terms and then return to them again later in the speech.

• For example, you may use a funny saying that you use with your students in your classroom in the speech. Or you may use less formal words and terms to keep the tone of the speech conversational.

• For example, you may have a call to action that refers to the story or fact you used at the beginning of your speech: “Just like my student who reached out to a peer in need, I ask you all now to be vulnerable, to try to reach out to someone in your community who needs help.”

Polishing the Keynote Speech

• When you read the speech aloud, notice if you skip over any words. You may be able to remove any words you skip over for flow.
• If you read the speech aloud to others, you can ask them for feedback. Ask them if they found any parts of the speech boring or hard to follow. Be open to getting constructive feedback on the speech so it is at its best.

• Correct punctuation is especially important if you are going to read the speech aloud to an audience, as the punctuation will tell you when to pause or take a breath. Often, a comma means pausing in your speech and a period means taking a short breath.

• If there is a time constraint for the speech, you should also time yourself reading the speech to confirm it is within the limit.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/brainstorming/
• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mitch-ditkoff/post_3868_b_1868754.html
• ↑ https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/blog/10-tips-for-improving-your-public-speaking-skills/
• ↑ https://www.toastmasters.org/Magazine/Articles/Six-Rules-of-Humor
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffschmitt/2013/07/16/10-keys-to-writing-a-speech/#25d3cdba4fb7
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/publicspeaking/chapter/11-2-steps-of-a-conclusion/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/reading-aloud/
• ↑ https://www.unr.edu/writing-speaking-center/student-resources/writing-speaking-resources/editing-and-proofreading-techniques

About This Article

A good keynote speech is inspiring and can set the tone for an entire event. Start your speech with an engaging anecdote to grab your listeners' attention. The story can be from your own experience and should relate to the topic of the event. Then, tell your audience what the purpose of your speech is. You might say something like, “I am here to talk to you today about social responsibility, which is the theme of the conference and the theme of my professional work." Use a little humor and a light-hearted tone to keep the speech engaging and make it more memorable. Make sure to write the speech along the lines of how you normally talk so it sounds natural when read out loud. At the end of your speech, finish with a strong call to action. This part of the speech should compel listeners to do something to help the cause. For example, if you're giving a speech for a humane society, you may encourage listeners to volunteer at their local shelter. To learn how to polish your keynote speech, read more from our Writing co-author! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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What Is a Keynote Speech? Plus 5 Steps to Help You Write One.

Eleni Kelakos August 24, 2020 Peak Performance , presentation skills training , public speaking training , speech coaching

You’ve been asked to deliver a keynote speech at an upcoming event.  And while you may be flattered by the request, you have a lot of questions, like: “What is a keynote speech anyway? What makes it different that other presentations?  How long should a keynote speech be? And how do I write a keynote speech

Before I answer those questions, let me congratulate you for having been asked to deliver a keynote speech.  Because being invited to give a keynote speech means that have developed a perspective, a public persona, or a big idea that is interesting enough to be featured in the spotlight. Professionally speaking, you have arrived! 

Typically, keynote speakers are experts in their field.  Some professional keynote speakers, like me and many of my colleagues in the National Speakers Association , are even paid to deliver their keynote speeches. Whether you are paid or not, giving a keynote address is both an honor and a fantastic opportunity to share your expertise what an appreciative audience.

What Is A Keynote Speech?

The answer to “What is a keynote speech?” is inherent in the very language of the question:  The words key and note .  Essentially, a keynote speech is a speech in which you establish and develop a main (key) theme and set an overall tone (note) for the event. Often, the subject of a keynote address or keynote speech is intended to reinforce—and rally the audience around– the event’s chosen theme.  For example, if the theme of an event is performing at your peak as a leader, there is a good chance that the keynote speaker will be delivering a speech that underscores that theme.

Keynote speeches can be informational, inspiring, entertaining, and motivating. The best keynote speeches contain a bit of each those elements, expertly woven together.   

What Makes A Keynote Speech Different Than Other Presentations?

One of the best ways to understand what makes a keynote speech different that other speeches or presentation is to understand what it is not :   A keynote speech is not a speech or presentation in which you teach skills or concepts on a deep, experiential, nuts and bolts level.  It’s a speech in which you are doing most of the work.

If you are asking your audience to do individual or group work in spoken or written form through more than half of your speech,  what you are delivering is either a training program or a workshop, but not a keynote speech.  This is not to say that keynote speeches can’t have interactive elements; many of the best do, but in doses small and simple enough to allow the members audience to ingest the lessons while maintaining a focus on the speaker. Overall, keynote speeches tease out their key theme at a much higher level of focus than more involved, granular, and usually more lengthy workshops, breakout sessions, or training programs ( like these ).

How Long Should A Keynote Speech Be?

A keynote speech is typically thirty to sixty minutes in length. 

Generally speaking, the shorter the keynote speech, the better.  This is especially true when delivering a keynote speech after lunch or dinner, when people are winding down over a meal (or even a cocktail or two) and have a shorter attention span.  Whatever time slot you’ve been given as a keynote speaker, it’s your job to stay within its parameters—even if the event is running late, and you have to shave ten minutes off your keynote speech.

How Do You Write A Keynote Speech?

The question “How do I write a keynote speech” is often the reason thought-leaders, speakers, and business leaders contact me for support in writing one.  Because, if you’ve never put a keynote speech together before, it can be daunting.  As I always tell my online group keynote coaching or individual keynote coaching clients, organizing and crafting a keynote speech is a creative process. This means your keynote speech will often dictate what it needs to be as you’re writing it. You must be willing to nudge it into being, and be patient as it unfolds.

If you’re wondering “So, how do you write a keynote speech?” I suggest you start by asking yourself the following five questions:

• Who are the people the audience you are speaking to? The more you know about your audience, the more you can create a keynote speech that is relevant and of service to them.
• What pain, problem or challenge are you there to shine a light on or solve on behalf of your audience?
• Based on your answers to the first two questions, what is your big idea, the “key note” you are there to expand upon in your keynote speech?
• What are the three main points, lessons, or takeaways you want make (and flesh out with stories, data, and other sticky evidence) that are in support of your big idea, and will make up the body of your keynote speech?
• What can you choose to do to begin and end your keynote speech in a way that is maximally memorable and engaging?

If you are struggling to put together your keynote speech, don’t despair. You don’t have to go it alone. There are professional keynote presentation coaches who can help you turn your big idea into a magical, moving, memorable speech. 

Fill Your Keynote Speech With Who You Are

Whether you write keynote speech by yourself, or with the help of a trusted keynote presentation coach , remember this: The greatest resources you’ve got to draw upon are your unique experiences, expertise, and stories.  Fill your keynote speech with who you are and what you know. Be human and relatable, so your audience can connect more deeply with you.

And when the time comes for you to step up to the podium and give your keynote speech remember: Your words matter. Use your words responsibly. Use your words with intention. Use your words to change your world.  

Need support putting together your signature keynote speech? Check out my Build a Brilliant Keynote Online Group Course .

Would you rather work with me on e -on-one explore my keynote presentation coaching options..

Successful as a keynote speaker: How to give a perfect keynote speech

More and more people dream of a career as a keynote speaker. Standing on stage, with the spotlight only on you, speaking about your heartfelt topic. 

Easier said than done. Because what actually makes a good keynote speaker? What does a keynote speaker talk about and how should a good keynote be structured?

If you want to find out what's behind the profession of keynote speaker and how you can become one too, then you should continue reading this post carefully now.

What is a keynote speaker?

A keynote speaker is an expert who shares his or her expertise on a particular topic with the audience. Keynote speakers often speak on topics related to personal development, entrepreneurship or society.

In doing so, they pursue the goal of sharing their knowledge or providing food for thought that moves the audience to critical reflection. Keynote speakers are therefore often invited to company events to get the audience present in the mood for a particular topic and to motivate them.

The keynote itself is often characterized by good Storytelling and personal anecdotes, which should emotionally engage and trigger the audience. An emotional trigger helps to awaken a deeper interest in the topic. This is especially important for rather dry topics around numbers, data and facts.

A keynote speaker is therefore not only a provider of knowledge, but also a motivator at the same time. The decisive keyword in this context is Infotainment .

Infotainment refers to the clever combination of knowledge and entertainment that a good keynote speaker should possess. This requires rhetoric at the very highest level, as well as the prerequisite, Expert in a particular field (e.g. digitization).

If a keynote speaker combines the art of infotainment with terrific rhetoric and expert knowledge, he can achieve great things. A good example of this is Steve Jobs, for example, who skillfully combined dry knowledge with entertainment and thus made a topic (computers) that many people found boring respectable.

What does a keynote speaker talk about?

The most important thing for a good keynote speaker is: a burning passion for the topic. Because every keynote speaker has a specific topic that he wants to bring closer to people. However, it is not only about pure knowledge transfer, but also about an emotional and important message for the listener.

Every good keynote should therefore have a clearly recognizable message that runs like a thread through his speech. Because that is what the audience will remember at the end of the day. And that's exactly what a good keynote speaker should aim for: a message that moves emotionally, inspires people and stays in their minds.

There are no limits to your choice of topics and the resulting message. Anika Tiegs, for example, is incredibly successful in talking about her experiences and her life change to a dominatrix. Her clear message is: "Be yourself and don't apologize for it!"

The more own experiences and emotions you have done with your topic, the more credible you come across. Your message is based not only on theoretical, but on real experiences - and that impresses and inspires.

However, it's just as important to remember that your topic may be completely new, shocking, or triggering to most listeners. Depending on the emotion you want to elicit with your keynote, you can tweak a number of different levers to achieve the desired response. 

Your keynote should be structured in such a way that the audience can follow you without any effort. You want to know how to do that? Then read on now.

What makes a good keynote?

The keynote is the backbone of any keynote speaker, as it contains the structure and thread that turns your topic into an inspiring message.

Another characteristic of a really good keynote is that it entertains and engages the audience. If you start boringly and don't build up any tension in the first 10 seconds, you will quickly lose the audience to their smartphone or the person sitting next to them.

In particular, exciting details, interesting quotes, funny pictures or bizarre facts trigger interest in your audience and you already have their attention. At the beginning of your keynote, for example, you can also pose a question or assertion that you only resolve at the end of your keynote, thus creating an arc of suspense.

Abundance of information is a quality feature

The wealth of information within your keynote is also an important quality feature. Convincing people of your topic in just 18 minutes is not that easy. That's why many keynote speakers tend to pack far too much information into their keynote, which virtually overwhelms the listener. In the worst case, your important message will not be perceived at all. So less is definitely more here.

Moreover, the power of pauses is vastly underestimated by many keynote speakers. Speakers who insert short pauses between topic sections and sentences not only give themselves, but also their audience a mental break. That way, your audience can process information better and you can catch your breath in between.

Last but not least, one thing above all is important for a good keynote: your body language and rhetoric. Nothing emphasizes your statements more than the right gestures and facial expressions. However, you should make sure that your movements do not appear too hectic and restless and rob you and your keynote of credibility.

So in summary there are 5 points , which make your keynote really good:

• Not a boring start : The first 10 seconds of your keynote are crucial
• Create suspense Exciting details, facts or quotes make your keynote directly more interesting.
• Less is more : Too much information in a short time cannot be processed by your audience, so less is more
• Take breaks Let not only your audience, but also yourself take a breath now and then and make short breaks.
• Your body language Your gestures and facial expressions, when used correctly, can positively support your message.

How to become (a good) keynote speaker?

A keynote speaker who cares about delivering properly on stage and getting his message across clearly, unmistakably and inspirationally does one thing above all: practice, practice, practice!

Because your Keynote can be the best keynote in the world - if you don't work on your performance, i.e. your body language, rhetoric and stage presence, you will be less well received by the audience. After all, you are the sole entertainer on stage and all eyes are on you.

Some people are born speakers, others have to work harder to become a good keynote speaker. But how does one actually become a keynote speaker? Can anyone make it to the big stage and is there training for those who want to improve their skills?

Unprotected professional title

One thing first: The profession of "keynote speaker" is not a protected job title. Basically, anyone can call themselves one. However, there are only a few keynote speakers who have really mastered their craft and can deliver good keynotes.

In general, it can be said that you should definitely think about a corresponding keynote speaker training if you pursue the goal of enriching the world with your knowledge and your own message. Because in such a training you get the necessary tools at hand, with which you not only shine on stage, but also create a really good keynote.

You will learn which techniques you can use to inspire the audience and convince them of your content and, above all, how to say goodbye to your stage fright.

Learning rhetoric from scratch

But the most important thing you learn for your success on stage? Rhetoric! Rhetoric is a special linguistic craft that you learn from scratch in your training as a keynote speaker. With the right methods and a lot of practice, you will be able to convince your audience and establish a connection between you and them. 

So again, at a glance - this is what you learn in a keynote speaker training:

• Systematic structure
• Communicate message clearly
• Inspire and captivate the audience
• How to use rhetorical stylistic devices skilfully
• How to trigger the emotions of your audience

Would you like to become a keynote speaker yourself and raise your rhetorical skills to a professional level? Then find out now about our Speaking training THEKEY.

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How to Present an Engaging Keynote Speech

Hosting & Hospitality Read time: 9 minutes

What is a Keynote Speech?

How long is a keynote speech, what makes a successful keynote speech, how to write a keynote speech - in 5 easy steps, how to start a keynote speech, how to end a keynote speech, tips for presenting an engaging keynote speech.

Keynote speeches are the heartbeat of any event, whether you're the event organiser delivering it or selecting a speaker to do so. They offer a chance to inspire and shape the event's narrative, leaving a lasting impact on delegates. The keynote's theme is typically aligned with the overarching theme of the event so crafting an engaging keynote speech is essential to connect with attendees and ensure the success of an event.

This guide will offer invaluable insights and practical tips for crafting, delivering, and perfecting a keynote speech from leading industry experts. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the art of keynote presentations, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques needed to engage and inspire an audience.

A keynote speech is often the opening or closing address at an event and is designed to convey a central message, set the tone, and captivate the audience. In contrast to shorter presentations, keynote speeches provide an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into a subject matter and demonstrate the extent of the speaker’s expertise.

• The purpose of a keynote speech is to convey a central message, set the event tone and engage audiences.
• A keynote speech typically takes place during the opening or closing of a conference.
• Keynote speeches are usually delivered by a notable expert, celebrity or prominent figure within the field.

A keynote speech should typically be between 30 - 60 minutes long, with the ideal duration falling around 45 minutes. This time frame allows for a focused, impactful presentation without overwhelming the audience.

• Dedicate at least 60 minutes within the schedule for the keynote presentation.
• Event organisers should coordinate with keynote speakers to ensure their presentation fits the allotted time.
• You should always allow extra time within the schedule to accommodate audience engagement, questions, and potential overruns, as it's easier to fill extra time than to rush through a keynote speech.

A good keynote speech is characterised by its ability to inspire, educate, and engage the audience. It should have a clear message, captivating delivery, relatable stories, and a strong connection with the audience's needs and interests. Outstanding keynote speeches do more than just provide information; they inspire the audience to take action.

Here are the top three things to consider for a successful keynote speech:

• Preparation time - Preparation time is paramount for keynote success, as it allows for content refinement and effective delivery. Keynote speeches often require weeks to months of preparation to ensure a well-structured and impactful presentation.
• Audience research - In-depth audience research enables the speaker to tailor their content to meet the audience's expectations, making the speech more relatable and engaging.
• Clear purpose - A clear purpose, goals, and intentions provide a roadmap for the speech, ensuring that the message is focused, concise, and aligned with the desired outcomes, making the keynote more impactful and memorable.

When writing a keynote speech, structure the speech in three sections: an engaging opening to capture the audience's attention, a substantive body with key messages and supporting content, and a compelling conclusion that summarises the main points and leaves a lasting impression.

To contribute to this guide, the team at ICC Belfast have enlisted the help of event industry experts who have created five easy steps on how to write an effective keynote speech:

1. Develop a Throughline

A throughline is the central theme or narrative thread that runs consistently through a keynote speech. It serves to connect various elements of the presentation, providing coherence and helping the audience follow the topic by reinforcing the core message and making the speech more impactful and memorable.

More than 900 businesspeople from across Northern Ireland and beyond are set to attend the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry President’s Banquet 2023 in ICC Belfast. The evening will be a celebration of global business leaders players, commemorating the membership organisation’s 240th anniversary in the company of Ireland Captain Johnny Sexton , who is making his first appearance of this kind since returning from the Rugby World Cup in France. Those lucky enough to have secured seats will hear Johnny in conversation with broadcaster, Holly Hamilton with the central theme focusing on leadership and what it takes to be the best.

Petrina McAuley from NI Chamber shares her top tips for developing a throughline through a keynote speech:

Define the core message:

• When you identify the main message or theme you want to convey in your keynote speech, everything else falls into place. Decide on this from the outset and a structure will be set for your overall theme.
• Ensure that your core message is clear, concise, and relevant to your audience's needs and interests.
• Thread the core message consistently throughout your speech and this will provide focus both to you and attendees.
• Connecting anecdotes, examples, and bringing the content back to your central theme will always maintain a cohesive narrative and reinforce your throughline.

2. Brainstorm Ideas

Brainstorming ideas is crucial because it allows for the exploration of diverse perspectives and angles, helping to uncover unique themes and subtopic ideas. It enables a comprehensive understanding of the topic's full scope, facilitating the development of a rich and engaging keynote presentation that resonates with the audience.

The creation of ' The Virtual Delegate ,' a six-part digital event series, stemmed from a brainstorming session with ICC Belfast and international keynote speaker David Meade around the event industry's need to unite and address the widespread challenges during a period when in-person networking and substantial interaction were significantly limited. This initiative was watched by over 3,000 viewers on LinkedIn and was recognised with an Innovation Award as part of the annual Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) Excellence Awards .

David has become one of the most dynamic, engaging, and sought-after keynote speakers with a client list that features some of the world’s most successful organisations. His top tips when it comes to brainstorming ideas for a keynote speech:

Begin with mind mapping:

• I always start with a mind map because this creates a central theme or topic in the centre of a blank page. Mind maps allow you to branch out with related subtopics and ideas in a non-linear fashion and mean you can always connect them back to the central theme.
• I always like to expand each subtopic on the mind map with details, anecdotes, and supporting content and then refine later when I’m putting the final touches to my keynote speech.
• No man is an island so collaborate with a team or trusted individuals to generate a wide range of ideas. The Virtual Delegate was an excellent example of coming together with like-minded people, brainstorming an idea and creating something innovative that had never been done before.
• Brainstorming sessions will encourage open discussion and idea-sharing, and this creativity with diverse perspectives allows you to identify keynote themes and angles.

3. Choose Key Talking Points

Refining ideas and selecting the strongest three topics as key talking points is vital for maintaining focus and clarity in your keynote speech. It ensures that the audience isn't overwhelmed with information and can absorb the most impactful content, making your message more memorable and engaging.

In 2023, ICC Belfast hosted a gathering of senior leaders from across Northern Ireland, where they renewed their dedication to driving economic growth in the city. The event featured an interactive session with renowned international speaker, author, coach, and educator, Andy Fell . The ‘ What Winners Do’ session, which was delivered by Andy, focused on the importance of collaboration in advancing the shared objective of enhancing Belfast's reputation as destination for business events.

Andy shares his top tips for choosing key talking points:

Consider your audience relevance:

• As the keynote speaker you need to deliver something that is relevant and engaging and what I like to do is evaluate the potential topics and base my speech on the target audience's needs and interests.
• I also like to prioritise topics so that they address specific pain points or provide valuable insights that will engage and resonate with the audience.
• Assess the potential impact of each topic on the audience. Consider which topics are likely to leave a lasting impression and always make your message memorable.
• Remember to remove weaker topics that lack depth, resonance, or relevance, ensuring your speech is focused and compelling.

4. Decide on a Keynote Structure

Speech structure is crucial for maintaining a seamless flow and ensuring appropriate timing during a keynote presentation. A well organised structure helps the speaker transition smoothly between sections, making it easier to stay on schedule and engage the audience effectively.

As a member of Visit Belfast’s executive leadership team, Rachael McGuickin leads a multi-award winning team where she is currently Director of Business Development, Sustainability and Transformation. Rachael is responsible for promoting Belfast internationally as a leading business events, cruise and group tour destination and often delivers keynote speeches in order to attract inclusive and sustainable growth for the ‘ World’s Best Conference and Events Destination ’ 2023.

Rachael’s top tips when deciding on a keynote speech structure:

Use a three-act structure:

• I will always divide my keynote speech into three acts: introduction, body, and conclusion.
• The introduction captures attention, the body delivers key messages, and the conclusion summarises and leaves a lasting impression.
• Never underestimate the introduction, you have less than five minutes to grab and keep the audience’s attention or you lose them. I always use a story, an unusual fact or statement to try and keep the focus of the audience in the introduction section.
• Create an outline with clear signposts as this will guide the audience (and you!) through your speech.
• Use transition phrases, visuals, and summaries to indicate the start and end of each section as it brings structured to your speech and enables well-paced delivery.
• It will always take you longer than you think!
• It is so easy to take away from a great keynote by speaking for too long and your content will lose impact.
• It is a privilege to speak to an audience – never overstay your welcome.

5. Draft and Redraft

Creating a first draft allows you to capture your initial ideas and thoughts without the pressure of perfection, providing a foundation for your keynote speech. The refinement through editing enhances clarity, coherence, and impact, ensuring that your message is effectively conveyed and resonates with the audience.

One Young World ambassador, author and social impact officer for Education Authority , Aimée Clint , has an extensive portfolio when it comes to delivering speeches. In 2019 she was named Europe's Top Entrepreneur Under 20 after she pitched her idea at the event in London, and walked away with a £10,000 investment. In 2023, at the One Young World Summit in Belfast, she hosted 24 sessions on the Reckitt Accelerating Impact stage in Hall 2A .

Aimée’s top tips for drafting a keynote speech:

Create an initial draft:

• Begin drafting your speech by freely expressing your ideas and key points without worrying about perfection.
• The initial draft is all about getting your thoughts on paper and structuring the speech.

Follow an iterative editing process:

• Review your draft multiple times as this will refine your content, structure, and flow.
• Pay attention to clarity, coherence, and engaging elements such as storytelling and audience engagement.

Start a keynote speech with an engaging introduction. You could open with a captivating anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a relevant quote. Capturing attention from the beginning is crucial, as it sets the tone, piques the audience's interest, and draws them into the speech, increasing the likelihood of them staying engaged throughout.

Here are some ideas for starting a keynote speech:

• Interesting fact - Begin your keynote with a surprising statistic or intriguing piece of information related to your topic. For instance, ‘Did you know that in the next five years, our world will generate more data than in the entire history of humanity?’
• Humorous statement - Lighten the mood by starting with a joke or anecdote that relates to your topic. For example, ‘They say the best way to survive a business meeting is with humour, so let's start with a joke.’
• Engaging story - Capture your audience's imagination by opening with a personal or relatable story that connects to your message. For instance, ‘Let me take you back 15 years in a small café in Ireland, where a chance encounter changed the course of my life.’

It's important to finish a keynote speech with a strong conclusion that leaves a lasting impact. You can wrap up by summarising key points, offering a call to action, or inspiring the audience. Ending on a high note ensures that your message resonates and motivates the audience to act or remember the core message.

Here are some ideas for ending a keynote speech:

• Summarise key points - Conclude your keynote by summarising the key takeaways of your speech, reinforcing the central message. For example, ‘In summary, we've explored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and resilience in today's ever-changing world.’
• Call to action - Inspire your audience to take action by providing a clear and compelling call to action. For instance, ‘Now, I challenge each of you to take the first step toward implementing these principles in your own lives and workplaces.’

ICC Belfast's top tips for presenting an engaging keynote speech cover four key areas:

• Maximise on storytelling - Storytelling resonates with audiences as it adds relatability and emotion to your message, making it more memorable and engaging.
• Utilise language - Employ various linguistic techniques, such as humour, metaphors, alliteration, and repetition, to keep the audience's attention and bring your concepts to life.
• Use more than words - Beyond content, consider the tone of voice, cadence, body language, and eye contact to enhance your keynote. Visual aids can also complement your message effectively.
• Recover from mistakes - Learn how to recover gracefully from any errors during your presentation through practice and preparation, ensuring a smoother delivery.

Presenting a Keynote at ICC Belfast

ICC Belfast provides expert support for keynote presentations during conference events:

• Flexible event spaces - ICC Belfast offers a range of versatile event spaces, from intimate seminar rooms to the impressive Main Auditorium , capable of accommodating up to 2,000 delegates. This diversity ensures that you can choose the perfect setting for your keynote presentation, tailored to your audience size and preferences.
• Award-winning production services - With state-of-the-art technology and award-winning  production services , ICC Belfast enables you to deliver impactful keynote presentations. High-quality sound and lighting, advanced AV equipment, and professional technical support ensure a seamless and engaging experience for both speakers and audiences.
• Flexible configurations - The venue's flexible space configurations and theatre-style seating options allow for optimal audience engagement, clear sightlines, and audiovisual setup to ensure your message reaches every attendee.

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What Elements Make a Keynote Speech Successful?

Knowing how to compose a good keynote speech can make a massive difference in the success of your public speaking engagement. The process can be daunting, but by understanding the key elements and dedicating time to preparation, you can captivate and inspire your audience. This guide will walk you through these necessary steps for crafting a compelling keynote speech.

Understanding Keynote Speeches

Being a keynote speaker is an honor that underscores the value of your ideas and vision. A keynote speech typically sets the tone for an event, aligns with its overarching theme, and is often positioned as the highlight of the agenda. Generally lasting between 45 to 60 minutes, it provides an opportunity to delve deep into a subject matter, showcasing your breadth of expertise and taking listeners through an engaging story arc.

Establishing The Core Message

To make your keynote speech both compelling and relevant, it’s essential to have a clear key message . This message serves as the throughline for your speech and should encapsulate the essence of your narrative. Your keynote’s theme should align with the event’s broader theme, thereby creating a harmonious blend and encouraging your audience to draw significant insights. When decided on a topic, aim for depth, mining personal experiences, learnings, and perspectives that will resonate with your audience.

Aligning With Audience’s Interests

For a keynote speech to be effective, it needs to strike a chord with the audience. Make an effort to understand your audience’s needs, interests, and expectations. Take the time to research, empathize, and structure your content in a way that is most likely to engage and inspire them. Remember, a successful keynote speech is not just about delivering information; it’s about motivating the audience to take action.

Creating a Solid Structure

Ensuring your keynote speech has a clear structure is crucial to maintaining audience interest. Start off with a strong opener that hooks your audience and sustains their attention. You could address a common concern, share a surprising statistic, or start with a personal anecdote. Similarly, finish with power. A compelling conclusion can help reinforce key ideas, make your speech memorable, and spur the audience to action. Don’t forget to incorporate a direct call to action, prompting your audience to make tangible changes.

The Role of Entertainment and Personal Stories

Balancing entertaining elements with valuable content can dramatically enhance audience engagement. Employ humor where suitable and tell real-life stories that make your speech personal. By sharing relevant anecdotes and insights, you can establish a strong connection with your audience, making your message more impactful and relatable.

Practicing and Improving

Practice is paramount to delivering a captivating keynote speech. Invest sufficient time in rehearsing your material, inserting pauses for effect, and getting comfortable with the flow of your content. Remember to gather feedback, make necessary adjustments, and aim to continually improve. Practice until you feel entirely ready, but avoid over-rehearsing, which could make your speech seem robotic or affect your natural enthusiasm.

Conclusions

Delivering a stellar keynote speech requires careful planning, understanding your audience, developing a strong narrative, and engaging delivery. By focusing on these aspects and dedicating sufficient time to preparation and practice, you can inspire your audience, leave a lasting impression, and make your speaking engagement a massive success.

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7 things that make a great keynote

Imagine: you are standing on a stage and look straight into a darkened room full of people. You read enthusiasm in their faces. People are standing, applauding and cheering. You feel a wave of positive energy coming in your direction. You have just finished your keynote and have managed to tap into your audience’s emotions. They trusted you and you were able to take them on a journey. You were able to motivate and inspire them. This feeling is indescribably beautiful. 

This is the result of a great keynote that every speaker wants. 

Throughout the course of this blog post, I will show you what the ingredients for a brilliant speech are. 

A keynote that will: –

• remain in the memory of your audience. 

Maybe you want to give a good keynote yourself. My 7-point guide brings you closer to this goal.

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1. Why do you need an outstanding keynote?

First of all, think about what you want to achieve with a keynote.  

If you want to tailor your keynote to an event, you should also be aware of its goal. The goal of the event must be clearly defined and determined in advance. 

The term “keynote” refers to the vocal sound that a choir is tuned with. A keynote tunes the audience to a topic that should be seen in a larger context. This sounds very strategic, but is the actual purpose of a keynote.

A good keynote may – no, should of course – also be entertaining. With a keynote, the central message of an event is conveyed to the audience in a relaxed manner. The presentation should provide impulses, trigger a specific topic or stimulate critical discussion.

Many keynotes are only 20 or 30 minutes long, although they can last up to an hour and a half. Must be able to win the audience over to your topic and to the central idea within this short space of time. You have to do everything you can to get the goal, the product or the vision across to the audience in the best possible way.

This is where the real difficulty lies when creating a keynote. The goal is quickly recognized, but it takes experience to skilfully implement it.

2. Know your audience

Now that you have set the goal of the keynote, there is one no-less-important point: you need to know your audience.

• What is the average age of the audience?
• Are there more men or women present? 
• What do the audience members do professionally and in what roles?
• What is the emotional involvement with your topic? 
• Are the participants familiar with your topic or are they beginners?
• Are the attendees here voluntarily or is it “part of the job”?

A good keynote is harmoniously focused on the audience. The wording used reflects the language of the audience.

The better you know your audience, the better you can emotionally engage them. That creates trust. If the audience trusts you, that’s already half the way to a successful keynote. Above all, knowing how your audience feels about the topic is essential. Your audience will feel understood and in good hands with you.

3. Clear structure and dramaturgy are the essence of an outstanding keynote

A good speech is characterized by a clear structure and dramaturgy that fits the topic. Does my keynote follow a clear theme? Is there a comprehensible beginning, middle section and conclusion to my speech? Is my entire keynote aligned with the main objective? Do I have enough examples or stories in my subsections?

A good keynote speaker pauses in the right places and varies the tone, tempo and volume. Similar to a narrative, an excellent keynote creates dramatic tension. Good keynote speakers don’t fall out of the sky, especially when it comes to the challenge of maintaining the right tempo. This is where point 6 comes into play.

4. Creating emotions through storytelling

In addition to creating dramaturgical suspense, a keynote should also contain various magic moments. In other words: it can be emotional. Storytelling is more popular than ever, because what better way to engage the audience than a speaker using figurative and flowery words to convey a topic? The speech should be filled with life so that it can develop its own dynamic. So: your speech is given life by your stories.

Creating emotional moments is incredibly important. The audience is immediately awakened by a perhaps provocative introduction right at the beginning of the speech. That way you create interest and can gracefully move on to the main topic.

The end of the keynote can also be a real highlight. You can leave a good last impression with a concluding anecdote or striking question. In this way, the audience is encouraged to think beyond the keynote. 

After all, that’s the purpose of a keynote. If your keynote is still a topic of conversation at the bar, you’ve already done a lot right.

5. Activate your audience

Not only is an audience that sits quietly and passively in its seats mind-numbingly boring for the keynote speaker; there is also a danger that the audience will miss the target and the topic. With a good speech, the audience is both energised and challenged.

But how do you do this most effectively? The answer is by challenging your audience while always listening to your listeners and viewers. The audience must feel that they are being invigorated and taken on a journey, because this is the only way to achieve a transformation on all levels.

Of course, the activation of the audience is also crucially dependent on your own energetic state. You have to be in the highest possible state yourself. If you want to spark the fire in others, you must first of all burn for it yourself. More tips on how to increase your stage presence can be found here.

6. Practice makes perfect

The perfect keynote does not fall from the sky; nor does the perfect keynote speaker. Successful keynote speakers regularly practice their speeches. They carefully prepare the content and all necessary materials. A test audience is often given the opportunity to enjoy the speech in advance so that the presentation can be optimally prepared. Many hours of work are invested until the speech is ready.

It’s not primarily about the content, but about details such as dramaturgy, structure or the rehearsal of punchlines. The right body language is also an essential part of a convincing presentation. And since the message should also travel, the right voice training is also part of the ideal preparation.

When practicing, the focus should always be on the audience. A test audience can give you helpful tips on how to immediately improve your speech. If there is no audience with whom you can practice the speech in advance, record your own speech at home with a video camera or cell phone. This gives you the opportunity to watch and optimize individual sequences over and over again.

7. Flexibility and improvisation are the key points to a great keynote

Last but not least: the ultimate discipline! What distinguishes a good keynote from an outstanding one? An outstanding keynote is characterized by the fact that the speaker does not stick rigidly to his speech, but can react flexibly to what is happening in the audience. Here, direct input from the audience can also be incorporated into the presentation. The more the audience can identify with the keynote, the more valuable the feedback.

A total focus on what is happening in the room at any time during your keynote is also valuable. For example, the technology can sometimes fail, meaning that improvisation is then called for. An often-practiced keynote leaves enough free space within the content to react flexibly to unexpected events. If you are an experienced speaker and you have already given the keynote several times, you are quite capable of changing your speech during the presentation without the audience noticing. It is important that you always keep your goal in mind, because as long as you know where you want to go, you will find a way.

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Keynote from an amateur or from a professional?

This question may sound a bit provocative. Basically, whether you are an amateur or a professional keynote speaker, it takes a lot of practice to deliver a captivating keynote. This is because keynotes are not just simple lectures; they are strategically-sophisticated speeches that pursue goals. Product keynotes á la Steve Jobs, for example, were crucial to Apple’s success. Even with speeches by great speakers like Bill Clinton, Tony Robbins or Arnold Schwarzenegger, nothing is left to chance.

You need time to practice and rehearse your speech and to feel comfortable on stage. Possible challenges arise when unforeseen situations arise, for example if all of a sudden the technology fails or a heckler in the audience interrupts you. Inexperienced performers will have difficulty coping with such disturbances. They lack the practice and experience to be able to improvise flexibly.

My tip: if the quality of a keynote at your event determines the well-being of your company because an innovative product is to be marketed or certain values are to be transmitted, follow the example of the big boys; leave nothing to chance and get a professional keynote-speaker.

Have you ever held or experienced a keynote yourself? What makes a keynote so special? Leave me a comment about it!

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How to Write an Effective Keynote Speech

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It's an honor to be asked to deliver a keynote — you want to be at your best. The longer a speech is, the easier it is to get lost in the text. It might take a couple of hours or half a day to write a short speech , but a keynote can take weeks to draft, edit, and finalize. Organization and outlining can save you endless hours of revisions.

Writing a Keynote

There are four basic tenets to remember when you sit down to write your killer keynote.

• Understand your audience. Who are they and how do they relate to your subject matter? What are their hot buttons? How can you get them to not just be in the audience, but to listen and agree? What are the words, phrases, or information points that will get heads nodding in agreement?
• Start at the end . What do you want the audience to do? In a perfect world, what would every person be inspired to get up and do after listening to your speech? Everything in your speech should build up to that call to arms or point of resonance. If you bring the audience there in a straight line, or if you telegraph it, the speech will be boring. Try to add some humor.
• Split it up into three parts – and split those parts into three. It's tough to tackle a 30-minute speech, but by splitting it into three sections of 10 minutes apiece, then taking those three sections and dividing them each into three, you can work on the 10 three-minute segments independently until they're polished. This isn't an iron-clad rule, but a technique that's a good way to make sure each part of your speech is balanced. If you simply write out the entire text, the structure might get lost. You could spend 15 minutes describing a problem and two minutes on the solution without realizing it.
• Variety, variety, variety . If your speech is nothing but statistics, the audience may turn on you. Any sort of repetition must have a purpose. Too much of a good thing turns bad. A solid keynote speech has variety: stories about real people, examples from history, metaphors, interesting numbers, new ideas, and other exciting moments to keep the audience engaged .

Good vs. Great Speeches

A great speech doesn't simply string elements together. It weaves them like a tapestry and takes the audience on a roller coaster. Look at each section of the speech and ask yourself, "Which emotions will the audience feel? What about the section before and the section after?"

The speech shouldn't be random or repetitive. Even if you're talking about a tough issue, like hunger or disease or an economic downturn, there's a reason you're speaking — and that reason is hope for change. Thirty minutes of "this is a horrible, horrible problem" and "thank you for letting me speak" won't work.

Give the audience hope that they can make a difference or fuel for further contemplation on the topic, and offer concrete and specific courses of action, along with the rationale and expected outcome. Explicitly saying, "You can do something" is too direct. In Hollywood, they'd say that dialogue is "on the nose."

Tell real stories about average people, not billionaires or geniuses, who made a difference. Local people, if you can. Make it real to your audience.

There's probably somebody in the audience who will be affected by this issue or has worked as a volunteer or advocate. That person's story is rhetorical gold. Don't start with it, end with it.

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Elements To A Successful Keynote Speech

Content Structure

Content structure is important to a successful speech so that your message is well received. Here is a basic outline to follow so that your audience will follow you:

Introduction – Part A. Introduce yourself. Although someone has probably done so already, take a moment to acknowledge the audience.

Introduction – Part B. Tell the audience what you will talk about and what the benefit(s) they will receive from listening.

Main Points. I prefer this to having a formal “body” of my keynote speech. By utilizing main points, I can reorder or remove information to best engage my audience. This flexibility requires that I know my material and can read my audience.

Conclusion – Part A. Concisely recap the main points of the speech and connect any dots that some listeners might miss.

Conclusion – Part B. This is your call to action . Tell audience members what they can do to best utilize the information you’ve presented. Encourage them to take appropriate actions and what resources are available.

Conclusion – Part C. Thank the organization for inviting you to speak and your audience for their attention.

A significant element of a successful keynote speech is the delivery. To engage your audience you must:

Know them. Speak with event organizers and conduct research to learn about your audience and their interest in your topic.

Make appropriate eye contact. Demonstrate that you see them as a specific group, not a generic audience.

Modulate your voice. Vary your tone of voice so you don’t put anyone to sleep or speak as if there are exclamation points at the end of each sentence.

Vary your speech pattern. You want to speak relatively slowly but speed it up from time to time to share your excitement about a point or finding.

While these tips may seem simple and obvious, it is important to maintain focus when giving a keynote speech. A successful keynote speech merges your words and delivery into an informative and compelling presentation. Be prepared, be yourself, and engage your audience to assure your words have the desired effect.

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Four Tips for Delivering a Great Keynote

It’s probably safe to assume that very few people actually enjoy public speaking. But for certain roles in events and marketing, it’s a necessity. Keynote addresses in particular, are often critical to communicating a business’s core message and introducing new products, services or company initiatives. Whether in-person or online, a keynote speech has the power to set the tone for the entire event. Speakers need to convey confidence and enthusiasm, maintain a consistent tone and deliver a clear and impactful message that boosts a call to action. Whether you’re preparing your next keynote address or trying to improve your public speaking skills in general, here are four important tips to keep in mind. Understand Your Audience When you’re speaking to a room full of people, especially to deliver a major keynote address, it’s critical to have a solid understanding of who your audience is and what they’re hoping to learn or gain from your speech. When developing the content and overall message, it’s essential to think of it from the audience’s point of view. A good place to start is by doing some research and diving into the who, what, where and why as it relates to your audience. Who are they? What are they trying to achieve and/or what’s important to them? Where are they coming from? Why are they listening to you speak and why are you speaking to them? “Understanding your audience is vital for any public speaker, but it's especially important for keynote speakers since it's vital that they establish rapport with their audience and also because they set the tone for the entire event,” writes Laura Spencer in this article on delivering an effective keynote speech. A keynote address is meant to inspire action, deepen the connection between audiences and a company or business and should leave a lasting impression. Content is the foundation for all of it. And by taking the time to clearly understand what your audience needs and wants, you’re laying the groundwork for a long-lasting relationship with your audience. Don’t just think of your audience as a crowd, but instead as individuals all hoping to learn and grow. By addressing them as real people with real goals, you’re opening the door to a more personal experience which can help make your speech that much more impactful. “One big trick in speaking to your audience is to treat your public speaking as if you are just speaking to one person at a time,” says cross-cultural business speaker and communications expert Jessica Chen . “The more personal the conversation, the less nervous you will become and the more it will resonate with those listening. It’ll feel like you’re talking to them, not above them.” Slides are Important, but They Aren’t Everything Slides are usually one of the core additions to any keynote address. And while it’s absolutely important to have a direction for your speech and to build a roadmap, a great keynote helps create a connection with the audience. Relying on slides or repeating what’s on them verbatim makes it harder to build an intimate relationship with the people watching and listening. It also makes it that much harder to pivot if any technical issues pop up. “Knowing your transitions and flow is important, but not as much as knowing the key insights you want your audience to walk away with,” notes Inc . The main takeaway is to think of slides as more of a guide and not the be all, end all. You’re up there to deliver important information but also to inspire and tell a story. Approach your keynote address with authenticity and be yourself. Public speaking is no easy task, but taking a moment (or a few) to breathe, relax and get comfortable with your audience can go a long way in building trust, affinity, and even a sense of fun. So yes, slides are perfect for helping the keynote move where it needs to go, but it’s more about delivering an honest and personal message that will resonate with audiences and leave them feeling informed and excited. Rehearsing is the Most Important Component The idea of having to give a keynote address can feel nerve wracking. To alleviate some of the pressure and ease the process, one of the biggest things you can do is rehearse. And when you think you’ve practiced enough, go back and do it a few more times. There are so many reasons why rehearsing your speech is essential to making it a success. Practicing gives you the opportunity to hone your content and finetune it until it flows well, is easy to understand and delivers a memorable message. It also lets you refine your intonation and delivery. A great keynote address should leave audiences feeling excited, motivated and inspired. Taking the time to craft the right speech and ensure it will connect with your audience is what it’s all about. Another reason to rehearse is to be able to memorize your words as best you can. When you don’t have to rely on looking at a sheet of paper the whole time, you can look out at your audience and establish more of a relationship with them. It also helps you to be prepared in case any unexpected issues arise. “The more you rehearse and become comfortable with the content, the freer you'll be to take chances, experiment, and truly focus on your delivery, rather than trying to remember what comes next,” notes Melanie Deziel , an international keynote speaker and founder of Storyfuel , in an article published on Hubspot. Another thing to consider when rehearsing is putting together your own practice audience. Find a relaxing or cozy spot and ask some trusted family members or friends if they can listen and share their thoughts. You can even record yourself speaking and play it back to see if you’re moving too fast or where you want to change your delivery. The tactics you can use when practicing are endless but the most important thing is to do it. Conclude on a Thoughtful Note The way you end your speech is just as important as how you open and deliver it. Whether it's abrupt or meandering, the wrong kind of ending can leave your audience with a less than stellar impression and reduce the impact of your overall message. The goal is to provide a thoughtful conclusion that resonates with audiences, reinforces your key themes, and prompts action. “Whether you’re facing a parole board or delivering Q4 sales results, your speech is only as good as your conclusion. There’s no single best way to wrap up, but my general rule is to always write out your conclusion in advance and memorize it,” says speech trainer, journalist and author John Bowe . “Look them in the eye and give them something to remember after the presentation is over.” Using these keynote address techniques may not calm all of your nerves, but taking the time to prepare, understanding what your audience wants, and concluding in a memorable way will ensure you accomplish your goals and make an impact.

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17 Presentation Techniques For A Great Keynote

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How much time do you take to design your presentation? Days? Weeks? Where do you get your inspiration from and how do you find the right design elements? Wouldn’t it be fantastic if you could create a remarkable keynote presentation in a day or two? I think anyone can do it, if they pay attention to the following presentation techniques and manage to combine them in a way that helps them put the right ideas in the right context.

Also read:  7 Things To Improve In Your Keynote Speech Presentation

Achieving presentation flow is a challenging task. Not everyone has a knack for design. So pay attention to each of these ideas, both the simpler ones and the more complex, and make your own combo to improve delivery and convince your audience.

1. Visuals are your friend

Using different types of visuals can be a great way to help your audience remember and react. Photos, illustrations, icons, symbols, sketches, figures, and diagrams are much more easy for the brain to retain than words. Think of a company logo for example – how many times has your brain recognized the logo even before you remembered the name of the brand?

Another great thing about using imagery is that it makes you more charismatic. It seems that speakers are seen as more charismatic when otherwise identical speeches contain more imagery . Here’s a great example – a former US president’s inaugural address was rewritten to create low and high imagery versions in an experiment. The audio recordings of the two speeches were played for the participants to the study who were randomly assigned. After listening to the speech, they provided ratings on various summary leadership measures. The result? The speech with high imagery was attributed to a more charismatic person.

2. Keep the presentation short and to the point

Thousands of psychological, neurobiological and social science studies have been conducted on how humans “pay attention.” The famous Microsoft “study” claimed that the human attention span went from 12 seconds on average in 2000 to just 8.25 seconds in 2015, which is shorter than that of a goldfish. What most of these studies concluded is that, most of the time, we don’t pay attention. It’s just how our brain works.

Keep your presentation short and sweet and, more importantly, simple. Even if your ideas are complex, you need to find a way to help your audience focus and follow your speech. Make sure your slides are not too busy if you want the audience to listen to you instead of reading slides.

3. The rule of three

This is a rather well-known technique that’s based on the fact that people tend to only remember three things. When you design the flow of your presentation, work out what the three messages that you want your audience to take away are. Then, structure your presentation around them, using the right design elements to separate the three.

The same rule can be applied to an individual slide –  it’s recommended that you use a maximum of three points on a slide. Make sure that they aren’t bullet points or presenter notes. Those should not be on the screen when you’re doing a keynote speech. If Google’s CEO does not  use bullet points , neither should you.

Also read:  5 Pro Tips For Giving Better Presentations

4. Focus on telling stories instead of throwing numbers

Even if you have a technical or scientific topic to present, you still need to tell a story. That is the essence of a keynote speech, to be memorable, emotional, compelling. And that means storytelling.

Tell stories and anecdotes to help you illustrate your ideas and your research. This will definitely make your presentation more effective and memorable. In a UCLA study , students were asked to recall a series of speeches they had heard. Only 5 percent remembered any individual statistic, while 63 percent remembered the stories presented in those speeches.

“Things are not what they seem.” It’s that to get people to sit on the edge of their chair or to get them involved in your story, the audience has to constantly discover something new.

Howard Suber, UCLA

5.  Know what slide is coming next

Memorizing every single word in a presentation is not a good idea. That’s why you shouldn’t have chunks of text altogether. But knowing what slide comes next is a must. Even if you are an amazing speaker and you’ve been really busy so you’ve had the presentation made for you, go through it at least once before.

It helps to build trust and keep the audience engaged when you say “On the next slide [Click] you will see…”, rather than than act confused when the next slide appears. It will also help with the flow of the presentation.

6. Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse

Practice is key for public speaking. Many experts say that rehearsal is the biggest single thing that you can do to improve your performance. This technique will make you so comfortable with the presentation content that you won’t need notes or prompts and you’ll appear conversational but knowledgeable.

Perform your presentation out loud at least four times. You can try something different each time: one in front of your friends or colleagues, one alone and one in front of a real scary audience, for good measure. You should also try to do a video recording of a rehearsal. It will help you spot improvement points, from how you are standing, if you are jangling keys, to how well your presentation is structured.

Also read:  Use These Presentation Apps To Rehearse Anywhere

7. Have an emergency plan

This does not include running off the stage. But it is a well known fact that something is bound to go wrong. It’s either the projector, the lights, the audio, the laptop, the fonts, etc. It’s always good to have a back-up plan. This way you won’t be blindsided, stressed and confused in case something goes off track. A useful tip is to check out the presentation room beforehand, so that you know what could go wrong.

Murphy’s kit: Have a printed out set of slides, data stick of your presentation and a laptop with your slides on it.

8. Involve the audience

One of the most powerful presentation techniques is inviting the audience in and have them contribute in some way. This will get them emotionally invested and it will differentiate you from inexperienced, nervous speakers.

Plan a inclusion of the audience in your presentation somewhere. It can be a slide with a question, a game or just an empty slide to help you connect with people and re-gain their full attention. Here are some ideas for audience activities–from a simple show of hands, to requests for brief personal input, to role playing and games, to small group exercises- and their merits:

The show of hands is good for polling the audience and gaining real-time feedback. It lets audience members know where they stand with respect to the group.Brief personal input reveals the diversity of experience in the room.Role playing and games are excellent for practicing sales situations and interpersonal responses.Group exercises allow participants to learn from each other.

9. Don’t read off the slides word for word

Please. Your audience is surely capable of doing that for themselves. They don’t need you to be standing in front of them reading off the screen.

Build your presentation in a way that it provides context for your speech, with visual elements and clear, simple ideas. Use your slides as outlines or conversation points that you build on, just like you would in a normal discussion. Experienced speakers often use slides to add a quick parenthetical note to something they’re saying to the audience.

10. Find the right speed

Most people go too fast. Mostly because they’re nervous or they’re pressured by the time constraints of the format. It’s really easy to rush through your content and speak very quickly, especially if you’re panicked. But it’s much easier for an audience to engage with your content and remember something if your delivery falls into a natural rhythm. Pace yourself and remember to punctuate your speech with pauses to emphasise key points.

Here’s a great exercise shared by Sims Wyeth , who learned it from Marian Rich, a voice and speech teacher in New York who worked with many famous actors to help them improve their vocal presence.

“The exercise will teach you that your voice is a wind instrument, and you must have ample air in your lungs to play it well.

Mark a paragraph / in this manner / into the shortest possible phrases. / First, / whisper it / with energetic lips, / breathing / at all the breath marks. / Then. / speak it / in the same way. / Do this / with a different paragraph / everyday. / Keep your hand / on your abdomen / to make sure / it moves out / when you breathe in / and moves in / when you speak.

Before you whisper each phrase, take a full bellyful of air and then pour all the air into that one phrase. Keep your throat open, and don’t grind your vocal chords. Lift your whisper over your throat. Pause between phrases. Relax. Then, take another full breath and whisper the next phrase. Whisper as if you were trying to reach the back of the room.

Once you’ve whispered the paragraph, then go back to the start and speak it in a conversational way, but again, pour all the air into each phrase and honor the silence between phrases. I can’t stress that enough. Take your own sweet time at the forward slashes.”

If you’re more of a slow talker, with a constant calm rhythm, you might run the risk of boring the audience. Keep people awake and interested by learning to increase your speaking speech without losing articulation and thought clarity. Start by learning what makes you slow. Record a one-minute monologue on tape and use a stopwatch or second hand; listen for the following types of slow spots.

11.  Include some humor

Humor can be one of the most powerful techniques for giving a great keynote presentation. You can use it in the beginning to relieve the tension in the room and help ease the transition into the bulk of the content. Appropriate humor that’s true to you let’s your audience get a sense of your personality and makes for a memorable presentation.

If you’re not a natural punster, do not despair. Anything can be learned. Here are a few techniques you can try:

Exaggeration: “Then I talked to a woman whose voice was so high only the dog could hear it.”Puns: “Did you hear about the guy whose whole left side was cut off? He’s all right now.”Self-deprecation: “And then, even though I knew it was too hot to eat, I bit into the pizza anyway. Because, clearly, I am an idiot.”Wordplay: “She brought me a plate of french fries instead. At least I thought they were French because they had an attitude and wore berets.”References: “Do. Or do not. There is no try.” – Yoda

12. Follow Guy Kawasaki’s 10-20-30 rule

Guy Kawasaki wrote that a presentation “should have ten slides, last no more than twenty minutes, and contain no font smaller than thirty points”. Although this was meant for entrepreneurs creating pitch decks, it’s a useful pointer for keynote speeches as well, especially from a design point of view.

Opt for a legible font and type size. Don’t use eccentric fonts that will make it impossible to make out the actual words. Stick to standard, easy-to-read fonts, preferably sans-serif (fonts such as Arial or Helvetica).

13. Pause from time to time

Both in your speech and in your presentation, white space is an important component. Whitespace is a fundamental building block of good design. Its one of the first thing any visual designer is taught. However, to many speakers it is simply a waste of space that could be used to better promote their message or express an additional idea.

Speech pauses allow you to punctuate your spoken words, giving your listeners clues as to when one phrase, one sentence, or one paragraph ends, and the next begins. Brigitte Zellner notes that pauses “participate in rendering human communication more intelligible. (…) In other words, pauses “stick out like sore thumbs”, and thus may occupy “beacon” positions in speech, serving to structure the entire utterance for both speaker and listener.”

14. Try some icebreakers

Why not reference some fun facts? Or have audience members introduce themselves? The most effective keynotes are both informative and enjoyable at the same time.

“For the brain to remember, presenters must deviate from a pattern in some significant way.”

Carmen Simon, co-founder of Rexi Media

Although not everyone is comfortable with icebreakers it doesn’t hurt to try one or two and see how they work for your keynote. Here are some different icebreaker ideas.

15. Make it thematic

Another out of the box idea is to make the most of an upcoming or recent event/holiday/movie release etc. and create a thematic presentation. Go for a memorable appearance, costume and all, and a well-designed presentation to accompany your speech. Get the audience to remember your presentation by connecting it to something they like or even dislike. The emotional connection will help spark a valuable conversation and it will increase the chances of people remembering your ideas.

Connections among elements in memory can make a real difference. Art Markman uses the analogy of a bowl of peanuts in his book Smart Thinking. He says that if you take peanuts out one at a time, you get three peanuts when you reach into the bowl three times. But, if you pour caramel over the peanuts, then when you pull one out, you get a whole cluster. After you draw from the bowl three times, you may have gotten almost all of the peanuts out. Memory functions in a similar way. By encouraging connections among the key points in your talk, you help pour caramel over the peanuts in memory and increases the amount that people remember from what you present.

16. Stay connected

Make sure you have an offering for the gods of social media. A tweetable bit on a slide, a hashtag to connect online and to encourage comments and debates or a website with online resources. Connect this technique with the one on involving the audience and you’ll get online engagement as well as offline.

Your “tweetables” should resonate with the audience and to do that they need to be catchy. Use strong verbs and keep it short. Think about what you want your audience to take away from your presentation.

17. Share your slides after the event

It’s nice to build a long term relationship with your audience. After all, they will be the ones ensuring your the growing reach of your ideas. Sharing your slides is a great way to help them recall the content of your presentation. It’s also a great way to encourage engagement after the event so don’t forget to include the date, time and title of the presentation as well as your contact details.

Let them know that you’ll be making the slides available from the very beginning of the presentation so that they don’t feel the need to spend too much time taking notes instead of watching you. But don’t share your slides before the presentation otherwise you’ll spoil the show and give people an excuse to leave without watching.

What are some other powerful presentation techniques that work for you?

If you’re looking to step up your public speaking game, check out these 10 easy steps to becoming a keynote speaker!

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Keynote Speaker: Definition and How to Find the Perfect Fit

• October 9, 2023

What is the role of a keynote speaker?

A keynote speaker delivers the primary speech at an event and is typically the main act of a conference. They’re like an orchestra conductor, setting the event’s underlying tone and core message with the finesse of a maestro. Their speech isn’t just a monologue; it’s a carefully orchestrated symphony designed to inspire, motivate, or provide a central theme for the event.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the term “keynote” originates from the practice of having a musical note played on a keyboard instrument, like a piano, to set the pitch for the rest of the musical performance? Similarly, a keynote speaker sets the pitch for the event, ensuring the audience is tuned in and ready for the following grand performance.

Key Takeaways

• A keynote speaker is often an expert in the particular field the event focuses on, providing knowledgeable insights and perspectives that can stimulate and inspire the audience.
• Frequently, the keynote speaker sets the underlying tone and core message of the event. They powerfully embody and convey the greater purpose of the meeting or conference.
• Keynote speakers are usually well-known personalities or figures of authority in their fields, enhancing the credibility of the event and increasing its appeal to potential attendees.

What makes a good keynote speaker?

A stellar keynote speaker isn’t just the opening act; they’re the ignition switch for your event’s energy! Their purpose? To establish the central theme of a conference, convention, or any gathering and set it ablaze with interest and enthusiasm. It’s like they’re the storyteller who lights the fire of curiosity in everyone’s minds, compelling them to embrace the event’s message.

Brittany Hodak is an international keynote speaker and award-winning entrepreneur. She teaches leaders to cure apathy by harnessing the power of super fandom.

Brittany prides herself on being more than just entertaining — she aims to be highly engaging, too! Her high-energy keynotes are “the perfect mix between a hilarious stand-up comedian and a brilliant professor.” With each presentation, she makes customer engagement not only accessible but exciting , which is why more than 90% of Brittany’s calendar comprises referral gigs.

Learn more or invite Brittany to speak .

Brittany Hodak

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How To Get The Most Out Of Attending Keynote Presentations

Audience listening to keynote speaker

Conferences promote professional growth and development, collaboration, and phenomenal opportunities to network. They offer the chance to get out of the office and surround yourself with like-minded people in an atmosphere of congeniality and sociability. When you head back to the office, you should feel motivated, renewed, and ready to share new ideas with your colleagues.

Breakout sessions focus on specific topics. But it’s the keynote presentations that should inspire you most. Imagine how tech developers feel when they leave the keynote at an Apple conference . They’re more than ready to explore new frontiers, taking what they’ve learned along for the adventure.

As a frequent keynote speaker, I take the responsibility to inspire seriously. I strive to pull together the big picture, galvanize action, educate, and motivate my audience to leave and conquer whatever challenges they face.

These presentations shouldn’t be lectures. Speakers should engage and interact with you with vibrancy and energy. They should raise and answer questions, and leave you with compelling takeaways . But to get the most out of the ones you attend, you’ll need to do your part as well. Here’s how.

Do Your Homework

It’s OK to just show up, take a seat, and listen to a keynote presentation. In fact, that’s probably what most people do. But if you want to get the most out of the experience, come prepared.

Conference schedules will feature speakers’ bios and keynote topics. It will be infinitely easier to connect with presenters if you know something about their background. What about them can you relate to, admire, or want to learn more about? Read what they’ve published and what’s been published about them. Finding that type of information is fairly easy with a quick online search.

You should also research the topic slated to be addressed. Having a grasp of it going in will help you to understand the presentation better and to ask more informed questions if you choose to. And if the keynote is virtual, be prepared to turn on your camera to focus on the presentation rather than multitasking. That leads me to my next point.

Audience engagement isn’t just a marketing strategy. A great keynote should raise questions or prompt comments from the audience. As a presenter, it’s my job to draw the audience into what I’m talking about, pushing the door wide open to interaction. If I look out and see people dozing off or checking their social media feeds, I’m not doing my job.

But you also have a job to do. You need to engage in the presentation to get the most out of it. Note questions as they come to you, so you don’t forget them when it’s time for the Q&A. You should also jot down your ideas for applying what the speaker’s saying to your job. If, for example, the speaker talks about the value of role play in team projects, don’t dismiss it because you aren’t a D&D aficionado. Figure out how you can apply the principles of it to your team.

Take advantage of the opportunity to ask the presenter specific questions about your unique situation. That sort of engagement could cost thousands of dollars if you were to hire the speaker as a consultant. Don’t miss the chance to get some free direction. Most presenters truly enjoy sharing their wisdom with curious minds.

Share the Wealth

Keynote attendees should be like sponges, absorbing all the new ideas an event worth its salt will provide. If you soak up some wisdom, don’t keep it to yourself. Share what you’ve learned with others while everything is shiny and fresh.

Discuss what you learned with friends, old and new, who were also in the room. Whatever the speaker imparted will grow exponentially during this type of discussion. Note the highlights, the kernels of knowledge, and the takeaways the presenter offered you. Then make sure you volunteer those takeaways to your colleagues back at the office, even if you aren’t required to deliver a report.

Not everyone you work with can attend keynote presentations. If you’re chosen to, take back what you’ve learned. Just remember, you can only share it if you gleaned the most out of it while you were there. So, pay close attention.

Get a Bigger Bang for Your Attendance Buck

Time and money are inevitable investments in attending a keynote presentation. If you’re going to make it, make it count. Prepare before, engage during, and share what you’ve learned when you leave. You’ll be a better professional and your employer will reap the benefits as well. That’s a win for everyone—including the keynote speaker.

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What Makes Someone a Good Choice for a Keynote Speaker?

By Leah Doyle   

If you do any sort of event planning work, you’re likely familiar with the task of selecting and hiring a keynote speaker. Speakers are vital to any successful event that brings professionals together in an informative, networking environment.

The best keynote speeches motivate the audience, inspiring them around a common theme or purpose. Your keynote speaker’s message should align with your organization’s vision and goals for the event. The keynote address sets your event’s tone, so it’s important to find the right person to deliver it.

• An understanding of the event’s overall purpose. It may seem like this should be obvious, but too often keynote speakers are more interested in using their speech to sell themselves and their brand, rather than contributing to the overall vision for your specific conference or event. Make sure you select a speaker who’s bought into your goals and purpose, and who is more interested in contributing to that vision than in selling him or herself to the audience.
• A firm belief in your event and your organization. It’s important to hire a keynote speaker who not only understands your organization’s goals, but also really believes in them. This quality can make working with your speaker much easier from start to finish. For example, when a speaker really believes in an event, he or she is more likely to take an active role in promoting it through social media channels – and keynote speakers are often great influencers for marketing. A speaker who is genuinely excited about your event may also be willing to participate in other ways, such as contributing ideas to planning or participating in a separate panel session.
• A strong focus on your attendees’ needs and interests. The best keynote speakers understand the best way to approach their audience. Great speakers can expertly set up a positive rapport with their audience while also making their credibility clear, which gives the message of their speech and of your event more power and clarity. A good keynote speaker will show a willingness to work closely with your organization to ensure he or she thoroughly understands the best way to connect with your attendees.
• An understanding of the importance of entertainment. Humor is often a central ingredient in many successful keynote speeches, and a good speaker can use humor effectively, without going overboard or letting jokes fall flat. The best speakers strike a perfect balance in their tone, between entertaining and informative.
• Real stories that make the speech personal. The best keynote speakers understand they need to develop a solid relationship with their audience – for at least as long as their speech lasts. By using real stories and personal anecdotes and observations, a good speaker gains the trust of the audience, helping them connect to the message on a personal level.
• A call to action that crystallizes the message. Your event attendees should be leaving the speaker’s session – and your event – with a few concrete, actionable ideas. It’s up to your keynote speaker to inspire your audience not just with his or her ideas, but also with ways to turn those thoughts into action.

Written by Leah Doyle

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How to Find Keynote Speaking Opportunities

• Nathan Mixon
• August 16, 2024

Table of Contents

Introduction.

So you’re a keynote speaker or you’d like to be one. You’ve got a message that you think is worth sharing and can inspire change in people. If you believe it, then someone else will. But how do you actually get on stage and in front of an audience to share that message and that value?

Keynote speaking isn’t just about delivering a nice speech; it can also be a pivotal milestone in an aspiring speaker’s journey toward professional acclaim. Keynotes offer unparalleled opportunities for visibility, credibility, and career advancement. They serve as a showcase of one’s expertise, a platform to actually influence industry trends, and a catalyst for personal branding. For speakers who want to elevate their profiles and make a lasting impact in their fields, getting keynote speaking gigs is not just advantageous—it’s essential.

In this blog post, we will jump into keynote speaking, exploring its significance, strategies for securing engagements, and tactics for leveraging other speaking roles into coveted keynote slots. Following a structured approach inspired by The Speaker Lab’s SPEAK framework we will provide actionable insights and practical steps to help you navigate and thrive in the competitive landscape of public speaking.

Whether you’re an experienced speaker looking to expand your repertoire or a newcomer eager to make your mark in the industry, this guide will equip you with the tools and strategies you need to succeed in finding and maximizing keynote opportunities.

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Understanding Keynote Speaking

What is a keynote speech.

Keynotes are generally high-profile presentations that are delivered at big events to set the overarching theme or message of the event. They’re often inspirational, motivational, or informative with the aim of engaging and captivating a large audience. Event organizers will go to pretty great lengths to find the ideal speaker for their keynotes because of the importance it holds for the whole event.

Keynotes differentiate from other speaking formats in a variety of ways. Workshops, for example, focus on interactive learning, skill-building, and lots of participant engagement. There is a lot of back-and-forth with the audience in workshops.

Keynotes, however, are more about delivering a central message to an audience without much interactivity (although there can certainly be some engagement).

Panels tend to involve several speaking in discussion, talking over various aspects of a topic but keynotes are singular presentations aimed at providing a cohesive message.

The Importance of Keynote Speakers

As a keynote speaker, you have a big responsibility. Keynotes serve as the cornerstone of events. They set the tone and direction for the whole thing. They are meant to inspire, challenge perspectives, and initiate action among audiences. Your role will often include address themes or trends that shape discourse in the industry. Your expertise will be in the spotlight.

With that responsibility comes a lot of advantages for you as a public speaker. Taking keynotes can provide a lot of exposure to a very big and diverse audience.These speaking opportunities can hugely increase you visibility as a public speaker within the industry. Keynotes will position public speakers as thought leaders and experts in their field.

Finding paid speaking opportunities will also help build credibility. Delivering a keynote can enhance your credibility as a speaker and give you some authority over other speakers on particular topics. Keynote speakers can become established as go-to sources for insights and expertise within their niches.

Successful keynote speakers can also find themselves getting invited to more and more prestigious and lucrative events and public speaking opportunities. Keynotes can often help one find speaking engagements, paid gigs, book deals, and media appearances. Needless to say, finding events to deliver a keynote at can go a long way in advancing your career as a paid public speaker.

Types of Keynote Speeches

There are three main types of keynote speeches that we’ll go over here:

Motivational Keynotes:

Motivational keynotes are designed to inspire and energize an audience. They will often use personal anecdotes from the speaker’s life and motivational stories. Think Tony Robbins. These keynotes are meant to rile up a crowd and touch on audience members’ emotions, preparing them for calls-to-action that will come both in the keynote and in later programs and segments of the event.

Informative Keynotes:

Informative keynotes tend to focus on delivering substantial knowledge, insights, or data on specific topics or industries. They will often include in-depth analysis, research findings, and applications that attendees and listeners can use and implement.

Speakers for these types of keynotes might use data-driven content to make their points and may provide strategies or frameworks that are useful and relevant to the audience. These keynotes may include more audience engagement than motivational keynotes due to their depth of content. There may be Q&A sessions, case studies, or demonstrations that help enhance the understanding and retention of the information being shared.

Industry-Specific Keynotes:

Industry-specific keynotes, on the other hand, are tailored to address challenges, trends, and innovations within a particular industry or sector. Speakers will focus on providing specialized knowledge and insights relevant to professionals within that industry. Keynotes like this are typical at industry conferences or company gatherings.

Knowing which type of keynote you’ve been hired to deliver is important because you need to understand the audience you’re presenting to. You need to study and be aware of the audience demographics (such as age, profession, interests, etc.) in order to tailor your keynote’s content and delivery. You have to align your keynote’s objectives with the event’s goals and themes to ensure your talk is relevant and impactful.

The SPEAK Framework for Keynote Opportunities

Step 1: select a problem to solve.

Audience Analysis

The first step to finding paid speaking opportunities as a keynote speaker is to do your research on who you’ll be speaking to. Learn about the events’ target audiences and understand what their needs, challenges, and interests are. From there you can develop some strategies to align your keynote’s topics with the audience’s expectations and event theme effectively.

Topic Selection

Once you’ve figured out who your audience will consist of and what they need, choose a topic within your niche that will be compelling to them. It should address industry trends, emerging challenges, or some other pressing issues. To make it even more impactful, come up with a clever title and description that will resonate with conference organizers and appeal to attendees’ interests.

Step 2: Prepare Your Keynote

Content Development

Next, you’ve got to actually write or prepare your keynote. When developing the content of your speech, structure it with a powerful opening, an engaging body with loads of memorable and impactful insights, and a conclusion that will leave the audience with something to remember as well. (The basics of speech-writing, really.) Audiences can relate when you incorporate storytelling and actionable advice into your presentation.

Rehearsal and Refinement

Now to prepare. As with any paid speaking gigs , you’ve got to practice. Practice your delivery to enhance presence, pacing, and audience interaction. If there are opportunities at other gigs to practice this particular speech or even with friends or family, do that. Take some feedback and refine your speech.

Step 3: Establish Yourself as an Expert

Building Your Brand

Keynote speakers are generally chosen by decision makers because they have established themselves as experts in their niche. This takes time, of course. Building your brand takes lots of work and experience in the world of speaking. Create a professional speaker profile that highlights your expertise, achievements, and unique perspectives. A speaker website is the ideal place to post this information.

You can also use other online platforms like blogs and social media profiles to show your expertise. This includes thought leadership in your niche. Socials give you a great platform to engage with a broader audience and build relationships.

Networking and Thought Leadership

Building a network of other experts and thought leaders in your niche is a great way to find opportunities. Try to connect with industry influencers, other speakers, and event organizers through networking events, conferences, and online communities. Community is an excellent way to get more opportunities.

Another way to network is by participating actively in panel discussions, webinars, and podcasts to share your thoughts, your message, your expertise. This will help you gain visibility and build credibility as a paid public speaker.

Step 4: Acquire Keynote Speaking Gigs

According to TSL’s founder, Grant Baldwin, there are two main searches you can make when trying to find speaking opportunities: people and events.

Use Social Media

If you don’t know who or what to search, use social media. If you follow industry leaders and influencers on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. then your feeds should be flooded with events and speakers to Google.

How to Use Google to Find Upcoming Conferences

Here’s an example: If you’re a dentist in Tennessee, search for “Tennessee Dentist Conference.” Take a look at the big national conferences but also focus on smaller, local events that may be more accessible for you next event.

When you search, scroll to the bottom of the search results page to find “People also search for” and use those related keywords to expand your search within your area and beyond. Most speakers will look through the first page of search results and then look elsewhere. There are good ways to use Google to find speaking opportunities.

Adapt your search method to your field (e.g., “Top Christian Conferences” for faith-based speakers, or similar searches for healthcare, knitting, youth athletics, etc.). This will help narrow down your results greatly. Using Google alerts can be a good way to stay on top of new opportunities.

Grant’s Pro Tip

Grant Baldwin encourages you to list events without contacting the event organizers immediately. You can use Google Docs or Sheets to make a list with links, dates, and contact information and then repeat this process until you have a solid list of potential events. Set Google alerts for each event.

Pitching and Proposal

Once you’ve established a list and decided to whom you want to reach out, now is the time to pitch. Your pitches should each be tailored, at least slightly, to each event so that it aligns with the event’s themes, target audience demographics, and the organization’s objectives.

Your pitch is your chance to make connections and negotiate. You can discuss fees, logistics, and contract terms as you emphasize the precise value that you bring to the event.

Leveraging Other Speaking Gigs

You won’t often find a keynote speaker who doesn’t have a lot of prior experience in other speaking roles already. You don’t usually jump straight into big keynotes. Use your other opportunities from smaller speaking engagements, like conferences or workshops, to hone your skills and position yourself for keynote roles. Highlight some of your successful speaking experiences and gather testimonials to showcase your abilities and your readiness to be an effective keynote speaker.

Another way to leverage your other speaking gigs is to expand your keynote offerings into series. You can offer workshops based on audience demand and feedback to draw out your keynote into more gigs, or vice versa. This is all about scaling your content in a way that is customizable to different industries, events, or organizational needs.

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Scaling Your Keynote Speaking Career

Managing speaking engagements.

Managing engagements means balancing commitments. Develop a system to prioritize keynote speaking engagements while also maintaining a personal and professional balance. If you’re not healthy, your work will suffer. You’ll also need to use time management to deal with prep, travel, and speaking without giving up other important responsibilities.

The next thing you’ll want to mange well is your schedule. This includes travel logistics. Start by creating a calendar system so you can easily track speaking opportunities, deadlines, and travel dates. Over time you’ll gain some travel hacks that you can use to minimize stress and maximize efficiency. This might be booking flights and stays well in advance or using loyalty programs to gain points.

Finally, make sure you’ve done your research on each event. If you show up and clearly show that you’ve tailored your keynote to be optimal for the event you’re at, the event organizers will notice and appreciate that you’ve come prepared. That will make you much more likely to get good referrals to advance your speaking career.

Measuring Success and Growth

As you establish yourself as a paid speaker and use keynotes to boost your opportunities to speak publicly, you also need to measure your success and set performance metrics goals in an organized way. This means setting clear goals for engagement, such as audience engagement levels, the number of new contacts you get, and getting feedback scores. You can collect most of this information through audience surveys, social media mentions, and just face to face interactions with people who have heard you speak.

You can also evaluate your own progression just by tracking the number and quality of your gigs over time. Note how you’ve improved the caliber of events and how many repeat bookings you’ve had. Even better, gaining your recognition in the industry via awards, media mentions, etc. is a great way to build.

Try monitoring your revenue growth from not only your speaking gigs, but also things like book sales and consulting offers. Try and find ways to increase your fees based on an improving and growing reputation and the added, unique value that you bring to events. Sell yourself at the rate you deserve.

Keynote speaking can be a game-changer for your career, boosting your visibility, credibility, and professional growth. By using the SPEAK framework you can effectively land more keynote gigs and make the most of these opportunities. Each step ensures you’re connecting with your audience, delivering powerful talks, building your brand, and finding the right gigs.

So, dive in and start applying these steps to find and secure more keynote speaking opportunities. Let your expertise and enthusiasm shine through, and watch your career soar. With dedication and a strategic approach, you’ll inspire audiences and achieve great success.

• Last Updated: August 7, 2024

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Analysis: What Harris Can Take From Obama’s Very First Convention Speech

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What Harris Can Take From Obama’s Very First Convention Speech

Twenty years later, the case for progressive patriotism rings true..

• United States

Stay informed  with FP’s news and analysis as the United States prepares to vote.

Twenty years ago, a 42-year-old state senator named Barack Obama delivered a stirring address at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Boston that galvanized the party. In his speech, which lasted approximately 17 minutes, Obama laid out a bold vision of progressive patriotism. Even though the Democratic nominee that year, Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry, lost to President George W. Bush, Obama’s ideas provided a strong foundation for his own victory as president four years later.

As Vice President Kamala Harris—whom former President Donald Trump, her Republican opponent, is attacking as a “radical”—and fellow Democrats prepare for the DNC in Chicago, they would do well to look back at what Obama had to say. His keynote address remains as relevant in 2024 as it was when he was still a relatively unknown figure on the national stage, because it continues to offer a compelling framework to connect a progressive agenda, steeped in traditional Democratic ideals, to positive, forward-looking patriotism. Rather than a total focus on the existential threat a second Trump term would pose to the country, the Obama speech provides a solid foundation for the politics of joy that Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, hope can keep their momentum going.

Not every state senator gets a keynote address at the DNC. Kerry’s team, led by Jack Corrigan and Robert Shrum, had considered other high-profile Democrats, including New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson and Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano. The parties had traditionally reserved the keynote spot for emerging stars, using the time as a moment to energize the party by showcasing exciting new voices. Although these speeches could often fall flat, there had been several notable historical milestones. In 1976, Texas Rep. Barbara Jordan, the first Black woman to deliver a keynote at either convention, captured the Democratic imagination by speaking about the need to revitalize a sense of community and common purpose after the fractures from Vietnam and Watergate. Eight years later, New York Gov. Mario Cuomo punctured the myth of President Ronald Reagan’s euphoric “Morning in America” message by talking about economic inequality.

Obama’s road to Boston took shape in early July 2004, when Mary Beth Cahill, Kerry’s campaign manager, called to invite him to deliver remarks in prime time on the second night. Cahill finally made the call to Obama after her team had narrowed it down to him and Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm, whose “no-nonsense oratory, centrist politics and movie-star good looks have Democrats looking to her as their party’s savior,” as Eleanor Clift noted in Newsweek . Cahill’s was an ask seemingly out of left field; while Obama was surrounded by a talented group of advisors who knew they had someone special on their hands, including David Axelrod and Robert Gibbs, to the rest of the country, he was barely known.

Obama on paper was an awkward choice to tout Kerry because he had come out strongly against the Iraq War, which Kerry as senator had voted to support. But the Democratic nominee had heard Obama speak at a campaign event in Illinois in March and had been impressed by him. His team believed Obama, who was running to replace retiring Republican Sen. Peter Fitzgerald in Illinois, could make a splash. The campaign was also eager to make sure there was high turnout among Black voters who would be critical to defeating Bush, still riding high on his aggressive response to 9/11 and the issue of national security. Obama could showcase how much more representative the Democrats were in contrast to a Republican Party that was justifiably perceived as white, male, rural, and insular. The Democrats also knew that Illinois would be an important open Senate seat.

With his hard work ethic, Obama went to work. He insisted that he wanted to write the first draft on his own, one that would be intensely personal. “I know what I want to do—I want to talk about my story as part of the American story,” Obama told Axelrod. He wanted to stress the “need for government to help provide a foundation of opportunity,” as well as the stories of the people he had met on the campaign trail. The “best of the American spirit,” he recalled in his 2006 memoir, The Audacity of Hope , was “having the audacity to believe despite all the evidence to the contrary that we could retore a sense of community to a nation torn by conflict; the gall to believe that despite personal setbacks, the loss of a job or an illness in the family or a childhood mired in poverty, we had some control—and therefore responsibility—over our own fate. It was that audacity, I thought, that joined us as one people.”

On July 26, Obama flew from Chicago to Boston at 4 a.m. so he could spend the morning appearing on the news shows. He also practiced the speech three times, each session an hour long. Advisors worried that Obama had never spoken from a teleprompter. Initially, his team worried; Obama seemed stiff and choppy. His speech was also far too long.

Throwing him off as the evening approached, Kerry’s 23-year-old speechwriter, Jon Favreau, told Obama that he had to remove a line from the speech that was too close to what the senator was going to say. Obama expressed his frustration at this man who looked barely out of college telling him what to do, but Axelrod pulled Favreau aside and negotiated a compromise. (Favreau would go on to become the top speechwriter for Obama when he ran for the presidency in 2008 and later co-founded the hit political podcast Pod Save America .)

In the end, the speech would inspire and provoke.

Obama’s address has been remembered as a piece of soaring oratory, but it is also now regarded as somewhat naive and nostalgic in its call to recognize the unifying elements of the nation. Still, those memories downplay the real significance of the message Obama offered Democrats.

In his keynote, Obama took on the strain of patriotism that was being promoted by Bush and the Republicans, one that revolved around aggressive militarism and bombastic nationalism.

There were several key components to his argument. The first was the significance of his own background. Obama’s cosmopolitan and international origins reflected the essence of the United States at its best. “I stand here today, grateful for the diversity of my heritage, aware that my parents’ dreams live on in my precious daughters,” he said. “We gather to affirm the greatness of our nation, not because of the height of our skyscrapers or the power of our military or the size of our economy. Our pride is based on a very simple premise, summed up in a declaration made over 200 years ago, ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.’” In a nation that was made, and perpetually remade, by immigrants, a nation that has grown more diverse, and a nation that is increasingly rooted in global networks, Obama’s story symbolized the strength of American identity.

The second component of his nationalism was the importance of government to ensuring fairness in the marketplace. While acknowledging its limits, Obama insisted that government had an important role to play in ensuring safety and security for all citizens. “Don’t get me wrong. The people I meet in small towns and big cities, in diners and office parks, they don’t expect government to solve all their problems. … But they sense, deep in their bones, that with just a change in priorities, we can make sure that every child in America has a decent shot at life and that the doors of opportunity remain open to all.” Kerry, Obama told the crowd, would offer tax incentives to businesses that created jobs at home and he would make sure Americans could afford decent health insurance. Obama advocated an understanding of government-market relations that fits into a classic Democratic refrain that the historians Michael Kazin and Lizabeth Cohen have termed “moral capitalism.” The idea of moral capitalism was that federal policies were necessary to make certain that the market was fair and just and that all individuals had a chance to become self-sufficient actors.

Finally, there was the most famous part of his keynote, the section where his delivery and words proved to be most powerful, in which Obama challenged the reality of a red and blue America. But he did not simply mean to magically wish away polarization and political differences; he knew these were intensely real. Rather, Obama wanted to argue that the communal tradition in U.S. history was equally powerful.

The country, he said, was shaped by a “belief that we are connected as one people. If there’s a child on the south side of Chicago who can’t read, that matters to me, even if it’s not my child. If there’s a senior citizen somewhere who can’t pay for her prescription and has to choose between medicine and the rent, that makes my life poorer, even if it’s not my grandmother.” According to Obama, the collective was what “allows us to pursue our individual dreams yet still come together as a single American family. ‘E pluribus unum.’ Out of many, one.” This was the rhetorical framework that led Obama to famously note that there were citizens in red states who had gay friends and citizens in blue states who didn’t like “federal agents poking around our libraries.” His message to Democrats, and to the entire nation, was that “there’s not a liberal America and a conservative America—there’s the United States of America.”

Out of those commonalties emerged a driving sense of optimism, rather than the politics of cynicism, anger, and despair. “Do we participate in a politics of cynicism or a politics of hope?” he said. “I’m not talking about blind optimism here. … It’s the hope of slaves sitting around a fire singing freedom songs; the hope of immigrants setting out for distant shores; the hope of a young naval lieutenant bravely patrolling the Mekong Delta; the hope of a millworker’s son who dares to defy the odds; the hope of a skinny kid with a funny name who believes that America has a place for him, too. The audacity of hope!” (This was a phrase he heard from his preacher, Rev. Jeremiah Wright.) In the end, Obama said, “that is God’s greatest gift to us, the bedrock of this nation; the belief in things not seen; the belief that there are better days ahead.”

By the time Obama finished, after having been interrupted 33 times for applause, with delegates shedding tears as they listened, a star was born. “I am proud, as a Black man,” one Illinois delegate said to the press, “to see him give a speech like the one he gave. It was inspirational.” The delegates roared in approval; the pundits agreed that they had just seen the future. They were right.

Rooting his understanding of Democratic politics in a patriotic vision, Obama had reminded Americans that a person could wave the flag proudly while leaning to the left.

As Democrats prepare to celebrate the nomination of the first female Black and South Asian presidential candidate, they have shown signs that they are still listening to what Obama had to say as they move to take ownership of patriotism rather than conceding love of country to the Republicans.

Harris has made this a centerpiece of her message. Toward the end of her address introducing her running mate in Philadelphia, Harris returned to some of the core themes that Obama put on the table 20 years ago. She said the basic question for voters was clear: “What kind of country do we want to live in? … A country of freedom, compassion, and rule of law or a country of chaos, fear, and hate?” She has made “freedom” a framework for her message, reclaiming a term that, as the historian Eric Foner has shown, Republicans have made a centerpiece of their own. While Republicans attempt to demonstrate their patriotism by attacking statements that Walz has made about his 24-year military career, Harris has the opportunity to offer a positive vision, without vitriol, about how to make our nation stronger.  

In November, the voters will decide. But at least for now, Democrats have been enjoying some good vibes, supported by some better polls. Perhaps they can finally again feel some of Obama’s audacity to hope for a better America.

Julian E. Zelizer is a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University. On Jan. 14, Columbia Global Reports will publish his new book,  In Defense of Partisanship . Twitter:  @julianzelizer

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Biden to deliver keynote address on first night of DNC. What should voters expect?

President Joe Biden will deliver the keynote speech on the first day of the Democratic National Convention, passing the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s nominee for the White House. Political analysts Leslie Hairston and Pat Brady weigh in on what to expect.

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What to Know About the Democratic National Convention

Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, will be the stars in Chicago.

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By Maggie Astor

Follow the latest news on Kamala Harris and the Democratic National Convention.

The Democratic National Convention is almost upon us, following the Republican convention last month. Once it’s over, it will be a 75-day sprint to Election Day.

Here is what to know about the convention.

When is the Democratic National Convention?

The convention will run from Monday, Aug. 19, through Thursday, Aug. 22.

Where is it?

It will be held at two venues in Chicago: The United Center, an arena on the city’s West Side, will host evening events — that is, the prime-time programming and speeches intended for public consumption. McCormick Place, which is downtown near Lake Michigan, will host daytime events, largely official party business and meetings.

Who will be there?

Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, will be the stars, and President Biden is expected to speak as well. But the full list and schedule of the speakers has not yet been released, and Ms. Harris’s campaign and the Democratic National Convention committee have declined so far to confirm any names besides Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz.

Republicans, during their convention, didn’t publicize their speaking schedule until close to the start of each night’s programming.

Typically, though, conventions feature a wide array of prominent people within the party, such as governors, members of Congress and former elected officials. Spouses of the nominees and other family members often speak or make appearances. And Americans who aren’t famous generally get some stage time as well, speaking about personal experiences that touch the themes and policies the nominee wants to emphasize.

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