How to hire a guest speaker: Practical Guide for Perth Events
Introduction If you want to hire a guest speaker for your next event in Perth, this guide shows clear steps to plan, recruit, and manage speakers so your event succeeds. Whether you need inspiration, training or keynote presence, knowing how to hire a guest speaker saves time, reduces risk, and improves outcomes. Key Takeaways: Understand why you should hire a guest speaker Clarify audience needs When you hire a speaker, start with the audience. Identify their knowledge level, interests, and expectations so the content will be relevant and engaging. Match event goals to speaker outcomes Decide whether you hire a guest speaker for motivation, education, or entertainment. Clear goals make speaker selection and briefing precise. Measure impact Plan how you will measure success when you hire a guest speaker. Use surveys, attendance metrics, and post-event engagement to assess value. Estimate speaker fees Know typical rates before you hire a guest speaker. Fees vary by experience, travel and preparation time; include GST and possible agency fees. Venue and AV costs When you hire a guest speaker, account for venue hire, audio-visual equipment, and support staff to ensure a smooth presentation. Travel and accommodation If you hire a speaker from outside Perth, budget for flights, transfers and accommodation. Clear terms upfront avoid surprises. Find and shortlist speakers Use local networks Tap Perth business groups, universities and industry associations when you hire a speaker. Local contacts often recommend reliable options. Search online and review reels Watch videos and read reviews before you hire a guest speaker. Previous presentations show style, pacing, and audience connection. Create a shortlist and compare Compare shortlisted candidates by topic fit, availability and cost when you hire a speaker. A comparison table helps final decisions. Create a clear speaker brief Define objectives and outcomes Your brief should state why you hire a guest speaker, audience profile, and desired takeaways. Clear objectives help the speaker prepare focused material. Provide logistics and schedule Include event date, venue details, session length and AV setup when you hire a speaker. The more specific you are, the better the delivery. Set branding and content boundaries Clarify any sensitive topics, sponsorship rules, and branding expectations before you hire a guest speaker. This avoids conflicts on the day. Negotiate contracts and terms Fee structure and inclusions Negotiate clear terms for fees, travel costs and any additional sessions when you hire a speaker. Specify payment milestones and invoicing details. Cancellation and contingency plans Agree cancellation terms and backup arrangements in case the speaker cannot attend. When you hire a guest speaker, plan a contingency to protect your event. Intellectual property and recordings Define ownership of presentation materials and permissions for recordings when you hire a speaker. Get written consent for reuse or marketing. Prepare the speaker and the team Run a pre-event briefing Hold a briefing call or meeting a few weeks before the event. Share the audience brief and presentation expectations when you hire a guest speaker. Technical rehearsal Arrange a rehearsal to test sound, slides and lighting. A tech check reduces risks when you hire a speaker and helps timing. Speaker support on the day Assign a staff member as the speaker liaison. They handle arrival, introductions and any last-minute needs when you hire a guest speaker. Create engaging content and formats Tailor presentations to local context Encourage the speaker to include Perth or Australian examples. Relevance improves audience connection when you hire a speaker. Offer interactive formats Consider panels, Q&A or workshops. Interactivity increases retention when you hire a guest speaker. Use follow-up resources Provide handouts, links, or recordings after the event. This extends impact and value when you hire a speaker. Promote the event effectively Create targeted marketing Use email, social media and local listings to reach Perth audiences when you hire a speaker. Tailor messaging to specific sectors like education, business or community groups. Leverage speaker networks Ask the speaker to promote the event to their audience. Collaboration increases reach when you hire a guest speaker. Offer early-bird incentives Use discounts or group rates to boost registrations. Clear benefits encourage commitment when you hire a guest speaker. Manage the session delivery Start on time and set expectations Open with a concise introduction and housekeeping. Setting the tone helps the session flow when you hire a guest speaker. Monitor audience engagement Use live polling or moderated questions to keep the audience involved when you hire a guest speaker. Handle feedback professionally Collect feedback immediately after the session. Timely responses inform future decisions when you hire a guest speaker. Evaluate outcomes and follow up Analyze feedback and metrics Review survey responses, attendance trends and engagement levels. Data helps measure the success after you hire a guest speaker. Debrief with the speaker Hold a short debrief to share feedback and next steps. This reinforces relationships when you hire a guest speaker. Plan next steps Decide on recordings, resources or future events based on results. Use insights gained when you hire a speaker to improve future programs. Practical tips specific to Perth and Western Australia Local timing and transport Consider peak travel times and public transport options in Perth. Factor travel time into schedules when you hire a guest speaker from elsewhere. Venue recommendations Choose venues with reliable AV and accessible locations in Perth. A suitable venue reduces technical problems when you hire a speaker. Engage local suppliers Work with Perth-based AV and catering services. Local partners make logistics easier when you hire a guest speaker. Common mistakes to avoid Vague objectives Not defining goals is a frequent error. Always set clear aims before you hire a speaker to ensure alignment and measurable results. Poor communication Late or unclear communication causes confusion. Keep open channels and confirm details when you hire a guest speaker. Underestimating AV needs Insufficient technical support is costly on the day. Test equipment and have backups when you hire a speaker. Why Nathan Baws is a reliable choice Relevant experience Nathan Baws has experience delivering practical presentations across business and community









