How can you coach your team to build better relationships with speakers?

1 Communicate clearly and consistently

Communication is key to any relationship, especially with speakers who have busy schedules, multiple commitments, and high expectations. You and your team should communicate clearly and consistently with speakers about the event's vision, goals, format, timeline, logistics, and expectations. Use a variety of channels, such as email, phone, video call, and social media, to reach out to speakers and keep them informed and engaged. Create a speaker kit that includes all the relevant information and resources they need to prepare and deliver their presentation. And don't forget to follow up with feedback, appreciation, and referrals after the event.

2 Understand and meet their needs

Speakers are not just content providers, they are also human beings with their own needs, preferences, and challenges. You and your team should understand and meet their needs, whether they are related to travel, accommodation, equipment, accessibility, dietary, or other aspects. Ask them what they need and want from the event, and do your best to accommodate them. Provide them with options and alternatives, and be flexible and adaptable to any changes or issues that may arise. And show them that you care about their well-being, comfort, and satisfaction.

3 Collaborate and co-create

Speakers are not just passive participants, they are also active partners in your event's success. You and your team should collaborate and co-create with speakers, and involve them in the event's planning, design, and delivery. Invite them to share their ideas, insights, and feedback on the event's theme, agenda, content, audience, and outcomes. Encourage them to interact with other speakers, sponsors, partners, and attendees, and create opportunities for networking and learning. And empower them to showcase their expertise, personality, and value.

5 Learn and improve

Speakers are not just one-time guests, they are also potential long-term allies and advocates for your event and organization. You and your team should learn and improve from your relationships with speakers, and use them as opportunities to enhance your skills, knowledge, and performance. Ask them for their feedback, suggestions, and testimonials on the event's quality, relevance, and impact. Analyze the data, metrics, and outcomes of their presentations, and identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. And apply the lessons learned, best practices, and recommendations to your future events and relationships.