Investing in Impact: Crafting the Perfect Speaker Budget for Your Event

Everyone has heard, “You get what you pay for!” And that rings true for hiring the perfect event speaker as well.

When planning an event, meeting, or conference, hiring a professional speaker can be your most valuable investment. It is what your attendees will remember (for better or for worse), and it has the biggest impact on the overall experience for any event attendee.

Understanding the costs involved is crucial to ensure the speaker fits within your overall project budget. Here is a list of the most frequently asked questions about creating a successful speaker budget.

What factors influence speaker fees?

Several factors can influence the cost of hiring a professional speaker:

• Experience and reputation: Established speakers with proven deliverables and a strong reputation will command higher fees.
• Industry expertise: Speakers who are experts in niche or in-demand fields may charge more due to their specialized knowledge.
• Event location: The location of your event can impact costs, especially if it requires travel or accommodations for the speaker. However, some venues will offer free rooms as part of a rental agreement. Be sure to check this out!
• Type of engagement: The style of presentation you are looking for—workshop, breakout, or keynote—can all impact the final speaker fee.

How much does it cost to hire a professional speaker? 

Speaker fees can vary from $2,500 to $200,000+ per event. Many of Conversion-omics’ professional speakers (link) are in the range of $7,500-25,000 plus travel. Speaker fees are determined based on a number of factors and can also change without notice, which is why it is a good idea to book your speaker as early as possible.

If you are working within a specific budget, we are happy to make recommendations for speakers whose rates most closely match your goals. Plus, we often provide suggestions on ways to stretch your speaker budget. At Conversion-omics, we can help you find the speaker who checks the box on your budget and still knocks it out of the park on stage.

For more information on working with limited resources, please read 5 Tips to Stretch Your Speaker Budget.

Why should I use a speaker’s bureau?

A speakers’ bureau works closely with meeting professionals to help simplify the process of selecting the perfect speaker whose expertise and delivery style align with your event’s objectives. Hiring a professional speaker or consultant is a considerable investment for most organizations. Just like you may choose to work with an accountant, realtor, or financial advisor, we know the industry and make your job easier. Over the years, Conversion-omics has cultivated relationships with talent in an array of industries. We help you get the best value for your investment.

For more information on speaker bureaus, press the Easy Button. Work with a speakers bureau.

Will I pay more for booking a speaker through a speaker’s bureau?

This is a great question with an easy answer: nope! (Forgive me, I am a native Minnesotan after all . . . You betcha!) You do not pay any additional fees for working with a speakers’ bureau. You enjoy complimentary consulting, impartial recommendations, professional support with event management, and many other bonus services at no additional cost to you. Plus, we can save you a TON of time. We confirm speaker budgets, availability, deliverables, etc., leaving you more time to check off all of the other items on your to-do list! Conversion-omics Speakers & Consultants (link) goal is to provide the very best solutions in an efficient manner in return, helping you save valuable time and money.

Hiring a professional speaker is an important investment in your event’s success. By understanding the factors that influence speaker fees and considering all related costs, you can create a realistic budget that aligns with your event goals.

Ready to start creating your perfect event? Conversion-omics Speakers & Consultants will help you select the best professional speaker and work collaboratively to create a custom topic to suit your specific event needs! Contact us or email at more@conversion-omics.com to get started today.