How to Become a Keynote Speaker

howkeynotespeaker.png

A keynote speaker is someone who delivers a speech at an event. The term "keynote" comes from the word "keystone," which means that the individual's talk will often be considered to be the most important of all.

In this blog post, we will go over 10 types of keynote speakers and how to become one. We'll also provide you with a list of 10 steps that can help you get started on your way to becoming a keynote speaker!

10 types of keynote speakers

I’ve seen a lot of keynote speakers over the years, and I have noticed that there are certain types who get up on stage more often than others. There are so many different personalities to choose from! Here are my top ten…

1. The Firecracker Keynote Speaker: This person is always full of energy and ready to take on the world.

   Tony Robbins is a master at energizing and motivating crowds. His dynamic presence and ability to pump up audiences make him an ideal example of this persona.

2. The Unapologetic Keynote Speaker: This person speaks their truth, no matter what anyone says or thinks about them.

   Michelle Obama is known for speaking her truth with unwavering confidence. Her speeches and upcoming memoir, "Becoming," reflect her unapologetic commitment to her values and beliefs.

3. The Sensitive Soul Keynote Speaker: There’s something very special and pure about this speaker – they come across as someone who will comfort you with a hug when you need it.

   Brené Brown, a renowned vulnerability researcher, exudes warmth and empathy. Her talks on topics like shame, vulnerability, and courage touch the hearts of many, making her a perfect fit for this persona.

4. The Data Scientist Keynote Speaker: These speakers are full of data and facts, they’re very passionate about their work!

   Dr. Hans Rosling, a late Swedish physician and statistician, was passionate about using data to address global health and social issues. His TED Talks and presentations were data-driven and highly impactful.

5. The All-Around Social Media Expert Keynote Speaker: They might not be an expert in just one social media platform – but this person knows them all inside out.

   Rand Fishkin, the founder of Moz, is a prominent figure in the world of digital marketing and SEO. His expertise spans various social media platforms, making him a go-to source for insights on online marketing.

6. The Master of Ceremonies Keynote Speaker: This person knows how to get everyone energized and excited!

   Oprah Winfrey is a perfect example. Her boundless energy and enthusiasm light up any stage she steps on. Whether it's her talk shows, speeches, or interviews, Oprah's charisma and energy are truly explosive.

7. The Storyteller Keynote Speaker: These speakers are full of stories that will make you laugh, cry, or think.

   Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a renowned Nigerian writer and speaker, weaves captivating stories into her talks about feminism, identity, and culture. Her storytelling prowess leaves a lasting impact.

8. The CEO Keynote Speaker: They are the backbone of the company – they’re respected by all and know how to inspire people.

   Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, is highly respected and known for his inspirational vision of the future. His presentations on space exploration and sustainable energy inspire both employees and the public.

9. The Soothing Keynote Speaker: This speaker is gentle on the ears, calming in their tone and mannerisms.

   The late Dr. Maya Angelou, with her calming and poetic delivery, had a unique ability to soothe souls with her words. Her autobiographical works and poems often touched on themes of resilience and hope.

10. The Thought Leader Keynote Speaker: This person has a lot to say and is willing to say it. They are often experts in their field and have been doing the work for years, but they can also be someone who has a new idea or way of thinking about things that are worth sharing with an audience.

    Simon Sinek, a leadership expert, fits this persona perfectly. He challenges conventional thinking and offers fresh perspectives on leadership and organizational culture.

Steps to Become a Keynote Speaker:

1. Select your industry.

2. Approach organizations you want to work with that support the same values as you do.

3. Ask for advice from someone in the organization about how they became a speaker and if there is an application process.

4. Create an audition presentation and submit it to the organization.

5. Finalize your agenda for a speech and make sure you have enough time allocated in your schedule to prepare.

6. Stay updated on industry trends and news by reading relevant blogs or articles, attending conferences, taking webinars etc.

7. Pay attention to presentation skills like eye contact with audience, the use of gestures, and how you connect with your audience.

8. Rehearse in front of a mirror or to an empty room so that you are comfortable enough on stage when it counts.

9. Practice public speaking by talking to people one on one about what they want from their career. Listen to them attentively and use their feedback to improve your public speaking.

10. Take the time, energy and funds required to create a proposal for an event or organization that you want to speak at.

Just do it! The best way to learn is by doing: take any opportunity you can get in front of people and start practicing what works well for you.

I hope you’ve found these 2 lists useful in thinking about time of keynote presentation most aligned with your personality, and the advice shared on steps you can stake to become a keynote speaker.

Let’s connect!

I am a combination of an unapologetic keynote speaker and a storyteller keynote speaker.

What type of keynote speaker are you? Which step inspires you to take action in the next 7 days?

Share below in the comment section so other people can learn from your mistakes and successes too!

You never know who might see this and hire YOU!