Do you want a famous CEO to speak at your event? Famous people are a great draw for audiences. They increase attendance and make your event memorable. 

This is one of the reasons why everyone remembers Steve Jobs’ 2005 commencement speech at Stanford. Not only was he famous, but he also gave a memorable speech. Who wouldn’t like to have someone like Steve Jobs give the keynote at their event?

However, if you want an A-list CEO for your event, graduation, or fundraiser, BigSpeak Speakers Bureau recommends you have a plan B and C. After 30 years in the business, the answer 99.9% of the time from the Tim Cooks and Sam Altmans of the world is “No.” 

Here are a few issues to consider before reaching out to a celebrity CEO.

Scheduling Conflicts

Famous people are busy and have numerous demands on their schedules. Even if they were interested in speaking at your event, they are probably booked for that date. At BigSpeak, we recommend you reach out to a celebrity speaker at least six months to a year in advance of your event. And to have a few options for dates.

Lack of Alignment With Interests/Values

Even if you have the money and schedule flexibility to book an A-list CEO, they will turn down your event if it doesn’t align with their interests or values. Since they don’t need the money, they tend to choose events that resonate with them the most. At BigSpeak, we recommend you research famous speakers who align with your interests and values before reaching out.

Reputation and Image Management

Even if your event aligns with the values of the CEO, they may decline because appearing at your event could potentially harm their brand or be controversial for their company. CEOs have to think of their companies and investors as well as themselves. So, before you reach out, consider the brand implications for the speaker.

Security Concerns

Famous CEOs attract a lot of attention and require more security than a professional keynote speaker. If you can’t ensure their safety or privacy, they will decline. Before putting them on your short list, make sure you can handle the increased security demands of having a celebrity at your event.

Logistical Challenges

Even if you get everything else right in your planning, your event location might be the deciding factor. A celebrity speaker might not want to go through the effort of traveling. You have a better chance of landing a celebrity speaker if the event doesn’t involve travel. That’s why Stanford could get Steve Jobs to speak at their commencement. He lived in the same town. If you really want a famous CEO or celebrity, try to find someone who lives in your city.

If you want to book a celebrity speaker for your event, contact BigSpeak Speakers Bureau. We can help you find one that could appear at your event.

For more on celebrity keynote speakers, read

How to Book a Celebrity Speaker

What to Expect When Booking a Celebrity Speaker