Great Black Speaker FAQ's

How does a speakers bureau work?
I've never booked a speaker before. What is the process from start to finish?
What are the typical costs I can anticipate when I book a speaker?
Is there a charge to do business with Great Black Speakers?
How much time will the speaker spend with the organization?
What if something goes wrong and our speaker is late, sick, or cancels the event totally?
How much do your speakers cost?
Does it cost more for a longer presentation?
Is it possible to record the speaker's presentation?
Will I be able to communicate directly with the speaker prior to my event?

 

 

 

How does a speakers bureau work?

Speakers bureau act as a resource for organizations who want to bring in quality speakers for their events. GBS is a non-exclusive bureau. This means that we don't actually manage any of our speakers, but work on the clients behalf for the lowest possible price. Our staff is dedicated to helping you find the right speaker for your organization. Most of the time, our bureaus fee is included in the speakers honorarium so that there are no hidden costs.

After you have decided on the speaker you want, we issue the contract and help coordinate the logistics. WE DO NOT MAKE THE TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE SPEAKERS. Our clients have found working with us painless. We will provide the same type of service to you.

I've never booked a speaker before. What is the process from start to finish?

We work with a lot of people who are booking speakers for the first time. Not to fear, GBS is here to help! The first thing that we do is identify exactly what you need from the speaker. We work with over 200 African-American speakers and have access to many more through our databases. Next, we will recommend 4 - 8 speakers who we think would be wonderful for your event. Your organization either accepts one of the recommended speakers or we can find other speakers who may fit your needs better. Once a speaker is selected, we then work out the contract information and then we're done. With most of our speakers, travel is included in their honorarium fee, so you won't have to worry about travel.

What are the typical costs I can anticipate when I book a speaker?

Typical expenses include speaking fee, air travel, accommodations, meals, and ground transportation.

Is there a charge to do business with Great Black Speakers?

Usually not. Most of the time, our fee is included in the speakers normal honorarium fee. There are some exceptions (usually the people in Hollywood). Then we add a 10% fee to the contract. With political candidates that do not charge a speaking fee, we have a standard finders fee of $250 - $400. 

How much time will the speaker spend with the organization?

Every speaker is different and have different schedules. Your speaker will be available to you for the length of your contract. Often times, speakers don't mind attending additional events such as receptions and VIP appointments.

What if something goes wrong and our speaker is late, sick, or cancels the event totally?

We haven't had anyone ever cancel an event, however we will use all of our resources to find you a replacement speaker ASAP. Last minute things happen, but our events are so well planned that we feel we can deal with any situation.

How much do your speakers cost?

We have speakers in a variety of price ranges. However most of our speakers cost between $1500 and $15000 for a 30 - 75 minute speaking engagement. Please use our speaker search page to search by price or just give us a call. We'll be glad to help.

Does it cost more for a longer presentation?

Usually. Most speakers have one price for 30 - 75 minute engagements and another price for engagements lasting 2 - 4 hours.

Is it possible to record the speaker's presentation?

Most of our speakers don't mind if it is for the organizations use only. Many speakers are sensitive about being video taped, so those things need to be discussed up front with GBS and the speaker.

Will I be able to communicate directly with the speaker prior to my event?

A lot of our speakers will be available to speak with you before the event. Just ask us and we can tell you if this is the case.