How Much Does A Keynote Speaker Cost?

Some may think that finding the cost for a keynote speaker is as simple as a Google search. After all, Google holds the answers for almost anything. Actually, many factors play into how much a client spends on a keynote speaker, which is why a keynote speaker’s fee will sometimes prove trickier to locate than you initially thought. When you begin researching how much hiring a speaker may cost, you will likely land on a speakers bureau (also known as a lecture agency) website, like Worldwide Speakers Group. Sometimes, these public speaking agencies do not list a speaker’s fee or honorarium on their website. Instead, their website will read: “Inquire for Details.” This is simply to account for the various factors that play into a speaker’s fee.

A speaker may adjust his or her honorarium depending on location, duration of the keynote, and audience size. Due to this, many speakers and clients use lecture agencies as their resource to negotiate. Speakers bureaus in Washington DC, for example, are especially well-connected and serve a wide range of high-profile events in the capital. Lecture agencies like WWSG specialize in finding and contacting highly sought-after keynote speakers.

Despite the variation in costs from speaker to speaker, there are some trends that help estimate the price for certain keynote speakers.

What determines a speaker’s fee?

First, speakers determine their honorariums based on the demand they receive from clients. The more demand and better feedback they receive, the higher the price. Apart from this human element, there are a few more trends.

In terms of professors, their fee depends on area of research, tenure, and the institution or university they are a part of. For example, a tenured economics professor at Harvard University will most likely have a higher speaking fee than a first-year lecturer.

With published authors, costs will vary based on publication success and the relevancy and interest level in the subject matter.

However, the biggest factor that determines cost is the “star factor” or following of the speaker. The more popular and sought-after the speaker is, the higher the price to have them speak at your event. Booking great speakers of today—individuals who are not only experts but also widely recognized for their impact—comes at a premium but delivers unmatched value.

These categories and factors are stackable and should be viewed as ranges, not rules. If a professor is also a published author, their fee may be higher. The same is true for a CEO or author who is a celebrity. If the speaker is more well-known, expect to pay more for their time.

Additionally, speaker fees for nonprofits can sometimes differ, as many speakers are willing to work within the budget constraints of mission-driven organizations. If your organization is a nonprofit, it’s worth discussing reduced rates or alternate forms of compensation such as promotional opportunities or book purchases.

How can I get the best value out of my keynote speaker?

Keynote speeches are an investment that clients are making for an event. Ensuring the quality and experience for your company or audience is the top priority. There are a few things to do that will maximize and ensure the value of the speaker and their keynote.

Schedule either a pre-booking call or pre-event call to discuss logistics, speech topic, and iron out any questions or concerns beforehand. If your event requires promotion, you may consider asking the speaker for a blog post, podcast appearance, or video to promote the event. Depending on the speaker’s available time, this may or may not be possible.

If the speaker is a published author, you can ask if books can be included in the cost for a discounted rate, whether attendees can receive books, or a book signing could take place.

Consider booking someone with a background in inspirational speaking—these types of keynote addresses often leave the most lasting impressions on audiences. A keynote speaker is the cornerstone of an event. Finding the right one takes time, negotiation, and patience in order to amplify and guarantee a successful event.

Keep in mind, however, that speaker honorariums and the determination of cost are always in flux. But if you pay a lot for your keynote and your audience can’t stop talking or tweeting about what an impact it had on them, you get what you pay for!

At Worldwide Speakers Group, our team has the experience managing speaker communication, logistics, ensuring cost-effectiveness, and we can even help you draft contingency plans. Let us manage your keynote speaker so you can focus on running your event.

Reach out to our team and we’ll help you find the perfect keynote speaker for your event, your audience, and your company.