We wrote a bit about speaker fees in yesterday’s post on the seven questions you should ask a potential speaker before booking him or her for your event. Today we’ll give you some more information on what expenses you should expect when booking a professional speaker.
Here are four questions the folks here at Inspiring Speakers Bureau are most frequently asked about speaker fees.
Question No. 1: Do I pay more for using a speaker bureau?
Answer: In most instances, no. At Inspiring Speakers Bureau – and at most speaker bureaus – it is the speaker who pays a commission on their fee to the bureau. This means that event planners like yourself, as the bureau’s clients, are able to enjoy free consulting services, independent recommendations, a high level of event coordination and many additional services at no cost – other than the speaker fee, of course.
Question No. 2: How are speaking fees determined?
Answer: Speaking fees are determined based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to: how well known the speaker is; the type and length of their presentation; and the amount of travel and time required to complete the presentation. For instance, keynote presentations are normally priced less than half-day or full-day presentations, and presentations that have been customized specifically for your audience and event cost more than a speaker’s standard presentation. Local presentations are usually less expensive than assignments that require the speaker to travel.
Question No. 3: What are the costs I can anticipate when booking a speaker?
Answer: Typical expenses include, but are not limited to: the speaking fee; the cost of renting or purchasing audio-visual equipment; and the speaker’s travel expenses, such as airfare or train fare, accommodations, meals, ground transportation and incidentals, such as tips.
Question No. 4: How can I save money on travel expenses?
Answer: The best way to save money on your speaker’s travel expenses is to avoid travel expenses altogether by booking speakers who live close to your event. Inspiring Speakers Bureau has speakers located throughout North America and the world, making it easy to find a speaker near you.
Most speaker bureaus are able to book speakers who require only coach travel rather than business-class travel, which will save you money if you do opt for a speaker who must travel from out of town. Plus, there are many speakers who quote all-inclusive fees that include their travel expenses.
Check back tomorrow for some tips on how to get the most value for your money when booking a professional speaker. Till next time!
