Celebrity guest speakers for events can transform an ordinary convention, conference, meeting, workshop, podcast, webinar, school program, corporate gathering, or community event into a memorable experience.

No matter if it’s a keynote, breakout or training workshop, the best guest speakers do more than stand in front of an audience and deliver a presentation. A great keynote presenter can educate, motivate, challenge assumptions, provide expertise, tell compelling stories, introduce new ideas, strengthen an event’s reputation, and leave attendees with information they remember long after the event ends.

To find and hire famous guest speakers, however, requires more than searching for someone who is interesting or well known.

The presenter needs to fit the audience, subject, format, budget, objectives, schedule, and overall tone of the event.

We explain everything involved in finding, evaluating, hiring, booking, preparing, and managing top guest speakers. It covers the major types of consulting experts, where to find them, how speaker fees work, what to ask before booking, how contracts work, how to prepare a speaker, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to measure whether the engagement was successful.

What Is a Guest Speaker?

A global guest speaker is an individual invited to speak to an audience because of their knowledge, experience, expertise, perspective, accomplishments, storytelling ability, or ability to address a particular subject.

Keep in mind too that leading guest speakers can appear at virtually any type of event.

Examples include:

• Conferences
• Corporate meetings
• Trade events
• Association meetings
• Employee events
• Leadership programs
• Training sessions
• Workshops
• Seminars
• School events
• College programs
• Fundraisers
• Community events
• Award ceremonies
• Networking events
• Podcasts
• Webinars
• Virtual conferences
• Customer events
• Product launches
• Retreats
• Private gatherings

A guest speaker does not necessarily need to be famous.

In many cases, the most effective speaker is someone with direct, relevant experience who can communicate ideas clearly to the specific audience.

Why Hire a Guest Speaker?

Organizations hire guest speakers for many different reasons.

One of the most common is education.

A speaker may provide specialized knowledge that an organization’s internal team does not possess.

Another reason is motivation.

An outside voice can sometimes communicate an important message more effectively because the audience is hearing it from someone with a different perspective.

Guest speakers can also provide:

• Expertise
• Inspiration
• Entertainment
• Credibility
• Fresh perspectives
• Industry insight
• Practical advice
• Leadership lessons
• Professional development
• Audience engagement
• Networking opportunities
• Emotional connection
• Thought-provoking discussion

The purpose of the speaker should be defined before the search begins.

If the event objective is unclear, choosing the right speaker becomes much harder.

Start With the Event Objective

The first step in hiring a guest speaker is not searching for speakers.

It is defining what you want the speaker to accomplish.

Ask:

• What should the audience learn?
• What should the audience feel?
• What should the audience do afterward?
• What problem should the speaker address?
• What subject needs outside expertise?
• What tone should the event have?
• Is the speaker expected to educate, motivate, entertain, or challenge?
• Is the speaker opening the event, closing it, or participating in the middle?
• How important is audience interaction?
• What would make the presentation successful?

For example, an employee event designed to improve morale may need a motivational speaker.

A professional conference may need an industry expert.

A leadership retreat may benefit from an executive leadership speaker.

A technical workshop may require a specialist.

A fundraising event may need a compelling storyteller.

The speaker should be selected based on the objective rather than the other way around.

Types of Guest Speakers

There are many categories of guest speakers.

Understanding the differences can make the selection process easier.

Motivational Speakers

Motivational speakers are hired to inspire audiences and encourage behavioral change.

They often focus on subjects such as:

• Resilience
• Leadership
• Personal development
• Goal setting
• Overcoming adversity
• Confidence
• Performance
• Change
• Teamwork
• Mindset

They are particularly common at corporate events, employee meetings, conferences, educational programs, and leadership events.

The strongest motivational speakers connect inspiration with practical lessons.

Keynote Speakers

A keynote speaker typically delivers one of the major presentations at an event.

The keynote may establish the theme of a conference, introduce the central message, open the event, or provide a memorable closing experience.

Keynote speakers can come from many backgrounds.

They may be:

• Industry experts
• Executives
• Authors
• Researchers
• Entrepreneurs
• Athletes
• Creatives
• Educators
• Leaders
• Specialists
• Experienced practitioners

The most important consideration is relevance to the event.

Industry Experts

Industry experts bring specialized knowledge and professional experience.

They can speak about:

• Market trends
• Emerging technology
• Industry challenges
• Consumer behavior
• Operations
• Strategy
• Regulation
• Innovation
• Professional development

Industry experts are especially valuable when the audience expects practical information.

Leadership Speakers

Leadership speakers focus on managing people, organizations, and change.

Common topics include:

• Executive leadership
• Team building
• Communication
• Decision making
• Workplace culture
• Conflict management
• Employee engagement
• Organizational change
• Strategic thinking
• Accountability

Leadership speakers can be useful for management conferences, executive retreats, employee programs, and professional development events.

Educational Speakers

Educational speakers focus primarily on teaching.

They may be subject-matter experts, educators, researchers, trainers, or experienced practitioners.

The presentation may include:

• Instruction
• Demonstrations
• Case studies
• Exercises
• Discussion
• Questions and answers
• Practical assignments

Educational speakers are particularly useful when the event has measurable learning objectives.

Technical Speakers

Technical speakers explain complex subjects to specialized audiences.

They may discuss:

• Technology
• Engineering
• Data
• Science
• Security
• Software
• Manufacturing
• Research
• Technical operations

When hiring a technical speaker, expertise alone is not enough.

The person must also be able to communicate technical information at the audience’s level.

Celebrity and High-Profile Speakers

Some organizations hire recognizable public figures because of their ability to attract attention and increase attendance.

A high-profile speaker can provide excitement and promotional value.

However, recognition should not be confused with relevance.

A famous person who has little connection to the event may produce less value than a lesser-known expert who directly addresses the audience’s needs.

Storytellers

Storytelling-focused speakers use personal experiences, professional experiences, historical events, or carefully developed narratives to communicate a larger message.

Storytelling can be particularly effective when the goal is emotional engagement.

Panelists and Discussion Guests

Not every guest needs to deliver a formal speech.

Some events benefit more from moderated conversations.

A guest may participate in:

• Panels
• Fireside conversations
• Interviews
• Roundtables
• Q&A sessions
• Debates
• Workshops

This format can create a more conversational and interactive experience.

How to Find Guest Speakers

There are several ways to identify potential speakers.

Search Within Your Industry

Begin with people already working in the relevant field.

Look for:

• Experts
• Executives
• Consultants
• Researchers
• Educators
• Authors
• Trainers
• Practitioners
• Entrepreneurs
• Analysts

People who are already active in your industry may understand the audience better than general-purpose speakers.

Ask for Referrals

Referrals are one of the most effective ways to find speakers.

Ask:

• Colleagues
• Event planners
• Industry contacts
• Professional associations
• Previous speakers
• Customers
• Partners
• Conference organizers
• Educators
• Community leaders

A referral can provide valuable information about how someone actually performs, not merely how they present themselves.

Look at Previous Events

Review events with similar audiences.

Identify the types of speakers used and examine which subjects received strong engagement.

This can help reveal what the audience responds to.

Search Professional Communities

Professional communities can be excellent sources of subject-matter experts.

Look for people who regularly:

• Teach
• Present
• Write
• Conduct research
• Lead workshops
• Participate in industry discussions
• Train professionals

An active expert may already have experience communicating with audiences.

Use Speaker Agencies or Bureaus

Organizations that specialize in representing speakers can simplify the search.

They may help identify candidates based on:

• Topic
• Audience
• Budget
• Location
• Format
• Availability
• Experience

This can save time when an event requires several speaker options.

Look Internally

Do not overlook people within your own organization.

An internal expert may already understand:

• The company
• The audience
• The culture
• The event objective
• The terminology
• The challenges

An internal speaker can sometimes be paired with an external speaker to create a stronger program.

Build a Speaker Shortlist

Do not immediately book the first person who looks suitable.

Create a shortlist.

A useful shortlist might contain five to ten candidates.

For each candidate, record:

• Name
• Expertise
• Topic
• Speaking experience
• Audience experience
• Presentation style
• Location
• Availability
• Fee
• Travel requirements
• References
• Video samples
• Technical requirements
• Contract requirements

Then compare candidates against the event objectives.

How to Evaluate a Guest Speaker

A speaker should be evaluated from several perspectives.

Expertise

Does the person genuinely understand the subject?

Look beyond titles.

Evaluate practical experience, professional background, teaching experience, publications, projects, or other evidence of expertise.

Communication Ability

Being knowledgeable does not automatically make someone a good speaker.

A strong guest speaker should be able to:

• Explain concepts clearly
• Tell stories
• Hold attention
• Adapt to the audience
• Answer questions
• Manage time
• Use appropriate language
• Speak naturally

Audience Fit

Ask whether the speaker has experience with audiences similar to yours.

Someone who performs well for executives may not be ideal for students.

Someone who excels at large conferences may not be comfortable with a small workshop.

Presentation Style

Determine whether the speaker is:

• Formal
• Conversational
• Energetic
• Analytical
• Inspirational
• Humorous
• Interactive
• Story-driven

The style should match the event.

Reliability

A speaker needs to be dependable.

Look for evidence of:

• Professional communication
• Timely responses
• Organization
• Preparedness
• Clear expectations
• Previous event experience

How Much Do Guest Speakers Cost?

Speaker fees vary dramatically.

Some speakers charge modest amounts, while highly experienced or high-profile speakers can command substantial fees.

The fee may depend on:

• Experience
• Demand
• Audience size
• Event type
• Location
• Travel requirements
• Presentation length
• Customization
• Industry
• Date
• Exclusivity
• Reputation
• Preparation requirements

The speaking fee is not necessarily the total cost.

Additional expenses may include:

• Airfare
• Ground transportation
• Accommodation
• Meals
• Production
• Equipment
• Assistants
• Travel days
• Custom content
• Workshop materials

Always ask for the complete expected cost before making a commitment.

How to Create a Speaker Budget

Start with the total event budget.

Then determine how much can reasonably be allocated to speakers.

Consider whether the speaker is:

• The primary attraction
• One part of a larger conference
• Providing a keynote
• Delivering multiple sessions
• Conducting a workshop
• Participating in a panel

A keynote may justify a larger portion of the budget than a short panel appearance.

However, price should always be evaluated against value.

How to Contact a Guest Speaker

The initial inquiry should be concise and professional.

Provide:

• Event name or description
• Event date
• Location
• Audience
• Expected attendance
• Desired topic
• Presentation length
• Format
• Budget range, if appropriate
• Whether travel is required
• Response deadline

The more relevant information provided initially, the easier it is for the speaker or representative to determine whether the engagement is possible.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

Before committing, ask:

• Are you available on the event date?
• What topics do you typically cover?
• Can you customize the presentation?
• How long is the standard presentation?
• Do you offer workshops?
• Do you participate in Q&A sessions?
• What audience sizes have you addressed?
• What are your technical requirements?
• What travel arrangements are required?
• What is included in the fee?
• What expenses are additional?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• What happens if the event changes?
• Do you require exclusivity?
• Can the presentation be recorded?
• Can the event use photographs or video?
• What materials will you provide?
• When do you need event information?
• How much preparation time is required?

These questions can prevent misunderstandings later.

The Speaker Contract

Never rely solely on informal conversations for an important speaking engagement.

A written agreement should clearly define the arrangement.

Important contract provisions can include:

• Speaker fee
• Payment schedule
• Event date
• Event location
• Presentation length
• Topic
• Deliverables
• Travel
• Accommodation
• Technical requirements
• Cancellation
• Rescheduling
• Recording rights
• Photography rights
• Content ownership
• Confidentiality
• Exclusivity
• Promotional obligations
• Liability
• Force majeure
• Expenses

The contract should reflect what both sides actually expect.

Deposits and Payments

Many speakers require a deposit or advance payment.

Payment schedules vary.

Possible structures include:

• Deposit at signing
• Partial payment before the event
• Remaining balance after the presentation
• Full payment before the event

Payment terms should be established before the contract is finalized.

Keep documentation of all payments and approved expenses.

Customizing the Presentation

A generic presentation can work, but customization usually makes a guest speaker more effective.

Provide the speaker with:

• Audience demographics
• Event goals
• Industry information
• Key challenges
• Desired outcomes
• Event theme
• Relevant terminology
• Organizational priorities
• Previous audience feedback
• Timing
• Session format

The speaker should understand why the audience is attending.

Create a Speaker Brief

A speaker brief is one of the most useful tools for event preparation.

It can include:

Event Information

• Event name
• Date
• Time
• Location
• Venue
• Expected attendance

Audience Information

• Job roles
• Experience level
• Industry
• Age range
• Professional interests
• Major concerns

Program Information

• Session title
• Presentation length
• Introduction
• Q&A
• Breaks
• Other speakers
• Stage setup

Content Information

• Primary objective
• Key messages
• Topics to emphasize
• Topics to avoid
• Desired audience takeaway

Logistics

• Arrival time
• Transportation
• Hotel
• On-site contact
• Technical rehearsal
• Presentation format

Preparing the Speaker

Preparation should begin well before the event.

Provide the speaker with all necessary information and establish one primary point of contact.

The speaker should know:

• Where to go
• When to arrive
• Who will meet them
• What equipment is available
• How long they have
• Who introduces them
• How Q&A works
• What happens after the session

Eliminate unnecessary uncertainty.

Technical Preparation

Technical problems can undermine even the best presentation.

Confirm:

• Microphone
• Projector
• Screens
• Clicker
• Laptop
• Internet
• Video playback
• Audio
• Lighting
• Stage
• Seating
• Recording equipment

If the event is virtual, test:

• Camera
• Microphone
• Internet connection
• Screen sharing
• Presentation software
• Backup connection
• Recording
• Chat
• Q&A

A technical rehearsal is strongly recommended.

In-Person Versus Virtual Speakers

Both formats have advantages.

In-Person Speakers

In-person presentations offer:

• Stronger physical presence
• Direct audience interaction
• Easier networking
• More natural Q&A
• Greater stage energy

They also involve additional logistics and travel expenses.

Virtual Speakers

Virtual speakers can provide:

• Greater scheduling flexibility
• Lower travel costs
• Access to speakers in distant locations
• Easy integration into virtual events

However, virtual presentations require more attention to technology and audience engagement.

Hybrid Events

Hybrid events combine in-person and remote audiences.

Guest speakers need to understand that they may be speaking to two audiences simultaneously.

The production team should ensure that remote attendees can:

• See the speaker
• Hear clearly
• Ask questions
• View slides
• Participate in discussions

How Long Should a Guest Speaker Speak?

The ideal length depends on the event.

Short presentations can work well for:

• Luncheons
• Panels
• Meetings
• Webinars
• Networking events

Longer sessions may be appropriate for:

• Workshops
• Conferences
• Training
• Educational programs

Regardless of length, audience attention should be considered.

A presentation should have a clear beginning, middle, and conclusion.

Keynote Versus Workshop

A keynote is generally designed to inspire, educate, or establish a central idea.

A workshop is designed for deeper participation.

A workshop may include:

• Exercises
• Breakout groups
• Questions
• Practice
• Discussion
• Assignments
• Problem solving

If the event requires attendees to acquire a skill, a workshop may be more appropriate than a keynote.

Questions and Answers

Q&A can make a presentation significantly more engaging.

Decide in advance:

• How long Q&A will last
• Who will moderate
• How questions are submitted
• Whether anonymous questions are allowed
• Whether audience microphones are used

A moderator can help keep questions relevant and ensure the speaker stays within the available time.

Speaker Introductions

A strong introduction establishes credibility without taking too long.

The introduction should generally explain:

• Who the speaker is
• Why they are qualified
• What they will discuss
• Why the audience should listen

Avoid reading an excessively long biography.

Managing the Event Day

The speaker should have one clearly identified event contact.

That person should handle:

• Arrival
• Registration
• Transportation
• Technical questions
• Schedule changes
• Introductions
• Stage coordination
• Speaker needs

The speaker should not have to search for different people to solve different problems.

What to Do After the Presentation

The relationship should not end when the speaker leaves the stage.

Thank the speaker promptly.

Collect audience feedback.

Review:

• Attendance
• Engagement
• Questions
• Feedback
• Session ratings
• Social activity
• Follow-up requests
• Business outcomes

If appropriate, provide the speaker with feedback about the event.

Measuring Speaker Success

A successful speaker should be evaluated against the original objective.

Possible metrics include:

• Attendance
• Audience satisfaction
• Engagement
• Questions asked
• Session ratings
• Knowledge improvement
• Behavioral changes
• Leads generated
• Employee participation
• Customer engagement
• Event retention
• Follow-up activity

Do not measure every speaker solely by audience size.

A smaller specialized session may be more successful than a large general presentation if it achieves the intended objective.

Common Guest Speaker Mistakes

Choosing Based on Fame Alone

Recognition can attract attention, but relevance determines value.

Ignoring Audience Needs

The speaker should address the audience’s actual interests and challenges.

Failing to Define the Objective

Without a clear goal, the presentation may become unfocused.

Waiting Too Long to Book

Popular speakers may have limited availability.

Not Clarifying Costs

Additional travel, preparation, and production expenses can create unexpected costs.

Skipping the Contract

Important expectations should always be documented.

Providing Too Little Information

Speakers cannot customize effectively without understanding the audience.

Overloading the Speaker With Information

The opposite problem is also common.

Give the speaker the information that matters most.

Neglecting Technical Rehearsal

Technical problems are avoidable when preparation happens early.

How to Find a Speaker Within a Limited Budget

A limited budget does not mean an event must settle for a weak speaker.

Consider:

• Local experts
• Educators
• Industry practitioners
• Internal leaders
• Emerging speakers
• Workshop facilitators
• Panel discussions
• Virtual speakers
• Multiple shorter sessions

A speaker with strong subject expertise but limited national recognition may provide exceptional value.

How to Get More Value From a Guest Speaker

Consider asking the speaker to provide more than a single presentation.

Depending on the agreement, possibilities may include:

• Keynote
• Workshop
• Q&A
• Small-group session
• Leadership meeting
• Employee session
• Recorded educational content
• Follow-up discussion
• Networking session

Any additional deliverables should be agreed upon before booking.

Speaker Selection Scorecard

Create a scoring system to compare candidates objectively.

For example, rate each speaker from one to ten on:

• Subject expertise
• Audience relevance
• Communication
• Experience
• Presentation style
• Availability
• Budget fit
• Customization
• Reliability
• Technical compatibility

Add the scores to create a total.

The score should not replace judgment, but it can make comparisons easier.

Guest Speaker Checklist

Before Searching

• Define the event objective.
• Identify the audience.
• Determine the topic.
• Establish the format.
• Set a preliminary budget.
• Determine the date.
• Determine the location.

During the Search

• Create a shortlist.
• Review experience.
• Evaluate presentation style.
• Check audience fit.
• Confirm availability.
• Compare fees.
• Review requirements.

Before Booking

• Confirm scope.
• Confirm fee.
• Confirm expenses.
• Discuss customization.
• Review technical requirements.
• Establish payment terms.
• Sign the agreement.

Before the Event

• Send the speaker brief.
• Confirm travel.
• Provide venue information.
• Share the agenda.
• Schedule a technical rehearsal.
• Confirm presentation materials.
• Confirm contact information.

On Event Day

• Welcome the speaker.
• Confirm technical setup.
• Review timing.
• Provide stage instructions.
• Introduce the speaker.
• Monitor the schedule.
• Facilitate Q&A.
• Assist with departure.

After the Event

• Thank the speaker.
• Collect feedback.
• Review results.
• Process remaining payment.
• Archive materials.
• Evaluate whether the speaker should be considered again.

A Practical Timeline for Booking a Guest Speaker

Six to Twelve Months Before

For major events, begin by defining:

• Audience
• Budget
• Topic
• Date
• Event goals

Create a preliminary speaker list.

Three to Six Months Before

Begin contacting candidates.

Compare:

• Availability
• Fees
• Experience
• Topics
• Requirements

Select the preferred speaker and negotiate terms.

One to Three Months Before

Finalize:

• Contract
• Payment
• Topic
• Presentation
• Travel
• Logistics
• Speaker brief

Two to Four Weeks Before

Confirm:

• Arrival
• Presentation
• Technical requirements
• Introduction
• Timing
• Q&A

Event Week

Conduct the final check.

Make sure the speaker has every piece of information necessary to arrive prepared.

How to Build a Long-Term Speaker Network

Organizations that hold recurring events should maintain a speaker database.

Track:

• Speaker
• Topic
• Fee
• Contact
• Availability
• Performance
• Audience feedback
• Event history
• Contract terms
• Strengths
• Weaknesses

Over time, this becomes a valuable resource.

A speaker who performs well once may become an excellent candidate for future programs.

Creating a Balanced Speaker Program

A strong event does not necessarily need several keynote speakers.

Consider combining different formats.

For example:

• Opening keynote
• Expert presentation
• Panel discussion
• Interactive workshop
• Audience Q&A
• Closing presentation

Different formats maintain energy and accommodate different learning preferences.

Diversity and Representation

Speaker selection should also consider whether the event reflects the audience and the broader subject being discussed.

A diverse speaker program can introduce different:

• Experiences
• Perspectives
• Professional backgrounds
• Generations
• Regions
• Disciplines
• Approaches

The objective should be authentic representation rather than token participation.

Accessibility

Accessibility should be considered during speaker planning.

Depending on the event, this may include:

• Captions
• Sign-language interpretation
• Accessible presentation materials
• Clear audio
• Accessible stage design
• Assistive technology
• Readable slides
• Microphone use
• Virtual accessibility features

Discuss accessibility requirements with the speaker and production team in advance.

Ethical and Professional Considerations

A guest speaker represents more than the content of a presentation.

Organizations should evaluate whether the speaker’s professional conduct, public behavior, and subject matter are appropriate for the audience and event.

Consider:

• Accuracy
• Professionalism
• Conflicts of interest
• Confidentiality
• Promotional content
• Sensitive subjects
• Organizational policies

Clear expectations should be established before the event.

The Ultimate Guest Speaker Strategy

The most effective speaker-booking strategy is built around alignment.

The audience, event objective, speaker, subject, format, budget, and logistics should all support one another.

Start with the audience.

Determine what they need.

Define what the event should accomplish.

Identify the type of speaker capable of delivering that result.

Build a shortlist.

Evaluate expertise and communication ability.

Confirm availability and total cost.

Negotiate the scope.

Document the agreement.

Prepare the speaker.

Manage the event professionally.

Measure the results.

Then use what you learn to improve the next event.

Final Guest Speaker Hiring Checklist

Before you hire a guest speaker, make sure you can answer every one of these questions:

• What is the purpose of the presentation?
• Who is the audience?
• What should attendees learn?
• What should attendees feel?
• What should attendees do afterward?
• What type of speaker is appropriate?
• What subject should the speaker address?
• How much experience does the speaker have?
• Can the speaker communicate effectively?
• Has the speaker worked with similar audiences?
• Is the speaker available?
• What is the complete cost?
• What expenses are additional?
• What does the contract include?
• What cancellation terms apply?
• Can the presentation be customized?
• What technical equipment is required?
• What travel arrangements are necessary?
• Can the presentation be recorded?
• What materials will the speaker provide?
• Who is the event-day contact?
• How will success be measured?

If these questions have clear answers, the booking process becomes much easier.

Hire Guest Speakers for Corporate Events

Hiring a guest speaker is ultimately about finding the right person for the right audience at the right time.

The most effective speaker is not necessarily the most famous, the most expensive, or the person with the longest résumé.

The best speaker is the person who can accomplish the event’s objective.

Start by understanding the audience. Define the purpose of the session. Determine whether you need a motivational speaker, keynote speaker, industry expert, educator, technical specialist, storyteller, panelist, workshop leader, or another type of guest.

Then build a shortlist and evaluate candidates based on expertise, communication, audience fit, experience, presentation style presentation without understanding the audience and event objectives. Provide a clear speaker brief, communicate logistical information early, conduct technical checks, and establish a reliable, availability, budget, and reliability.

Once the right candidate is identified, establish expectations clearly. Confirm the fee, expenses, presentation format, topic, travel, technical requirements, cancellation provisions, recording rights, and other important terms in writing.

Preparation is equally important.

A speaker cannot deliver a truly customized presentation without understanding the audience and event objectives. Provide a clear speaker brief, communicate logistical information early, conduct technical checks, and establish a reliable event-day contact.

Finally, measure the results.

Ask whether attendees were engaged, whether the speaker delivered the intended message, whether the audience gained something valuable, and whether the presentation contributed to the broader purpose of the event.

When guest speakers are selected strategically and managed professionally, they can become much more than an item on an event agenda.

They can become the catalyst for learning, inspiration, discussion, connection, and meaningful change.

The best speaker-booking process therefore does not begin with the question, “Who should we hire?”

It begins with a better question:

“What does our audience need, and who is best qualified to deliver it?”

Once that question has been answered, finding, booking, and hiring the right guest speaker becomes a much more focused and successful process.