Choosing the Right Diversity and Inclusion Speaker: A Guide for Event Planners

As an event planner, you know that selecting the perfect speaker can make or break your event. When it comes to diversity and inclusion topics, the stakes are even higher. An effective speaker has the power to uplift, inform, and spark constructive change inside your company. However, how can one discover the ideal fit? Let’s explore some useful advice for selecting diversity and inclusion speakers who will connect with your audience and further the objectives of your company.

Understanding Your Needs

Before you start your search, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve. Ask yourself:

1. What are our organisation’s diversity and inclusion goals?
2. What specific topics do we want to address?
3. What are your audience demographics?
4. What tone and style will resonate best with our attendees?

Getting clarity on these questions will help you narrow down your options in finding a speaker who aligns with your vision.

Researching Potential Speakers

Once you’ve defined your needs, it’s time to start your search. Here are some avenues to explore:

1. UK speaker agency: Dealing with a respectable UK speaker agency will provide you access to a large pool of qualified speakers and save you time. There are many of organisations that specialise in finding speakers on diversity and inclusion, so you’re sure to find the ideal person.
2. Professional networks: Make contact with peers who have organised events of a similar nature within your sector. Drawing on their personal experiences, they could offer suggestions.
3. Online platforms: You can locate and screen possible speakers with ease by using websites like LinkedIn and Twitter. Seek out people who are actively participating in discussions about inclusion and diversity.
4. Industry conferences: Go to events that highlight diversity and inclusion to see presenters in action and get a personal impression of their efficacy.

Evaluating Speakers

As you compile a list of potential speakers, consider the following factors:

1. Expertise and experience: Look for motivational speaker in London with a proven track record in addressing diversity and inclusion issues. Their background should align with the specific topics you want to cover.
2. Speaking style: Watch videos of their previous talks to assess their delivery, engagement level, and ability to connect with the audience.
3. Customisation: The best diversity and inclusion speakers will tailor their message to your organisation’s specific needs and challenges.
4. Audience feedback: Look for testimonials or reviews from past events to gauge how well the speaker was received.
5. Thought leadership: Consider speakers who have published articles, books, or research on diversity and inclusion topics. This demonstrates a deep understanding of the subject matter.

Making the Connection

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, it’s time to reach out to your top choices. Here are some tips for this stage:

1. Be explicit about your expectations: Give specifics about your event, target audience, and objectives.
2. Request a proposal: Ask for a summary of the topics the speaker will discuss and their strategy for keeping the audience interested.
3. Talk about logistics: Be clear about your spending limit, the date, and any necessary technical information.
4. Arrange a call: You may learn more about a candidate’s personality and compatibility with your event by having a conversation with them.

Beyond the Keynote

Remember that the impact of a great diversity and inclusion speaker can extend beyond the event itself. Consider these additional opportunities:

1. Workshops: Many speakers offer interactive sessions that can provide more in-depth learning experiences.
2. Q&A sessions: Allow attendees to engage directly with the speaker for more personalised insights.
3. Follow-up resources: Ask if the speaker can provide materials or action plans that attendees can use after the event.

The Broader Context

It is worth mentioning that many motivational speakers in the UK also cover these topics as part of their wider message, so this needs to be seen within its broader context. Go beyond solely DEI speakers. At times, a new outlook from this group, such as an inspirational speaker who is successful in that field, can do wonders.

See also: Proper cost control is the key to effective corporate finance management

Making the Final Decision

After scrutinising all these points, go with your instinct. It should tick off all the boxes for you and honestly leave you with peace of mind that this is THE right speaker. Virtually, It’s important to note that choosing a diversity and inclusion speaker is an investment in your company’s culture for the future. Nowadays, you have to find a person who can truly stimulate change, because the days of passively administering diversity & inclusion programmes are over. While by no means exhaustive, these recommendations will provide you with the information needed to select a speaker who can present an impactful message that will stick and address your organization’s diversity and inclusion objectives. Happy planning!