Booking The Right Speaker

Bringing in the right speaker can make or break your next ministry event. The right voice doesn’t just fill a slot on the schedule — they breathe life into your theme, connect deeply with your audience, and help move your mission forward. But with so many options (and limited budgets), how do you choose wisely?

Here are 10 practical hints and helps to guide you in booking a speaker who’s the right fit for your ministry — not just for the event, but for the impact that lasts long after it ends.

1. Clarify Your “Why” First

Don’t start with a speaker list. Start with your ministry goals. Are you aiming for evangelism, discipleship, inspiration, training, or a mix? The right speaker should reinforce your vision, not just fill time.

2. Know Your Audience

Youth, parents, volunteers, or whole church? Match the speaker’s style and stories to the group you want to impact. A seminary professor may not connect with teens the way a storyteller or practitioner will.

3. Check The Fit Beyond the Stage

Look at how they engage before and after speaking. Do they mingle, pray, or encourage? Sometimes their off-mic ministry is more impactful than their platform presence.

4. Do a Mission & Values Check

Listen to their teaching, read their content, and see if their theology and values align with yours. Alignment is better than a “big name.”

5. Look for Story Over Stardom

Big names might draw a crowd, but authentic storytellers often leave a lasting impact. Prioritize depth and relatability over hype.

6. Ask About Customization

A great speaker won’t recycle a “canned talk.” They’ll ask questions about your theme, context, and audience to tailor their message.

7. Check References & Reviews

Ask other pastors or ministries who have hosted them: Did they deliver on what they promised? Were they easy to work with? Did they show humility and flexibility?

8. Consider Budget Wisely

Don’t blow your whole event budget on one speaker. The environment, hospitality, and follow-up often multiply impact more than a big honorarium. Look for speakers who “get” that.

9. Ask About Follow-Up Resources

Does the speaker offer books, devotionals, small group guides, or digital resources to extend the impact after the event? This keeps momentum going.

10. Pray for Discernment

Don’t underestimate this. Sometimes the “less obvious” speaker is exactly who God will use. Seek wisdom together with your leadership team.

CHECK OUT OUR LIST OF SPEAKERS AT THE NEW “SPEAKER HUB”!