Do not book a speaker who refuses to customize, has no real live video, communicates poorly, cannot provide references, does not fit your audience, is all flash and no substance, or seems difficult to work with. Spotting these red flags before you sign saves you from an expensive mistake on your biggest stage. Here are the seven reasons to walk away.
1. They will not customize
A speaker who insists on delivering the exact same talk everywhere is a risk. If they will not tailor their message to your audience and goals, your event gets a generic performance instead of a relevant one.
2. There is no real live video
If you cannot find footage of them in front of a live audience — only a glossy sizzle reel — be cautious. Great speakers have real video because rooms love them. A lack of it is a warning sign.
3. They communicate poorly
Slow, vague, or disorganized communication before the booking is a preview of what event day will feel like. If they are hard to reach now, they will be hard to coordinate later.
4. They cannot provide references
A speaker with a real track record can point you to happy past clients. If references are thin or nonexistent, you have no proof they deliver what they promise.
5. They do not fit your audience
Even a brilliant speaker is the wrong choice if their style or message does not match your room. Impressive on paper is not the same as right for your people.
6. They are all flash, no substance
Big energy is great, but if there is no real takeaway underneath it, your audience leaves entertained but unchanged. Look for substance behind the showmanship.
7. They are difficult to work with
Diva behavior, unreasonable demands, or inflexibility are not worth it, no matter how good the talk. The best speakers are pros who make your job easier, not harder.
The takeaway
Booking the wrong speaker is costly, so treat these seven red flags as your early warning system. When you spot them, keep looking — the right speaker will not raise any of them.
Every speaker we represent has already cleared these hurdles. At Platinum Speakers Agency, we only work with pros who customize, deliver, and are a pleasure to work with. Meet our speakers or get in touch to book with confidence.