There are many people who would call themselves a motivational speaker so which one should you choose? As a professional speaker for 25 years I've seen hundreds of 'so called' motivational speakers and many of them weren't up to scratch so let me suggest a few ideas that can help you to make the right choice and select a good one: 1.
Your needs.
Have a clear idea of what you want to achieve from the presentation and be sure of the needs of the audience.
When you know your needs it'll be easier to find the appropriate fit.
2.
Qualifications.
The best professional speakers will have the letters CSP (Certified Speaking Professional) after their name, awarded to the top 5% of speakers by their governing body for example NSA (National Speakers Association).
3.
Celebrities.
Just because someone has represented their country at sports, built a big business or climbed a mountain doesn't mean they know how to inspire other people from stage.
The top professional speakers have studied how inspiration and motivation work.
Some celebrities won't understand this.
4.
Website and video.
The best speakers will have their own websites where you'll be able to watch small parts of their presentations.
Look on YouTube for their videos too.
Watch them to asses the speakers energy and style but understand that most of them will be able to adapt their content to suit your audience.
5.
Client list.
Ask any potential speakers for a list of recent clients including their phone numbers so that you can speak to them personally.
Ask these clients who their audience was and what their reaction was to the presentation.
6.
Recommendations.
If you've heard a good speaker recently but don't feel they would be appropriate for this presentation, ask them who they would recommend for your event.
If they've been in the business for a while they'll know the best people in each subject area.