Before you book a keynote speaker, ask about their availability and fee, whether they customize, their experience with audiences like yours, what they need from you, their references, how they handle Q&A, and their cancellation policy. The right questions up front save you from surprises later — and quickly reveal whether a speaker is a true fit or just a good reel. Here are the questions worth asking every time.
1. Are you available, and what is your fee?
Start with the basics so you do not fall in love with a speaker you cannot book. Confirm your date and get clarity on the full fee — what it includes, plus travel and any extras — so there are no surprises down the line.
2. Will you customize your talk for our audience?
The best speakers tailor their message to your people, your industry, and your goals. Ask how they customize and what they need from you to do it. A speaker who wants to learn about your audience is one who will actually connect with it.
3. Have you spoken to audiences like ours?
Experience with your industry, audience size, or event type is a strong signal a speaker will land. Ask for specific examples of similar events and what the outcomes were.
4. What do you need from us to be at your best?
Great speakers are clear about their requirements — A/V, room setup, timing, and how they like to prepare. Their answer tells you how professional and easy to work with they will be.
5. Can you share references or testimonials?
Past clients are your best source of truth. Ask for references or recent testimonials, and listen for whether people describe the speaker as easy to work with, not just great on stage.
6. How do you handle Q&A and audience interaction?
A speaker’s approach to engagement shapes the whole experience. Ask how they involve the room and manage Q&A so you know what to expect and can plan the format around it.
7. What is your cancellation and backup policy?
Life happens. Understand what occurs if either side needs to change plans, and whether the speaker has a backup approach. It is a question you hope never matters — and are glad you asked if it does.
The takeaway
Booking a speaker with confidence comes down to asking the right questions before you sign — about fit, customization, logistics, and reliability. A great speaker will welcome every one of them. A speaker like Ashley Rhodes-Courter earns a booking not just on a powerful story, but on being a true professional to work with start to finish.
Prefer to skip the interrogation? At Platinum Speakers Agency, we have already asked and answered these questions for every speaker we represent. Tell us what you need and we will match you with a proven fit. Meet our speakers or get in touch to get started.