When booking a keynote speaker, meeting professionals know the wrong choice can derail an otherwise well-planned event. According to veteran keynote speaker and comedian Jan McInnis, there are several red flags planners should keep in mind before signing the contract. Here are 5 of them:

1. "First Rodeo" Risk

Planners should confirm that the speaker has real experience in front of professional audiences—not just Toastmasters or Rotary. "Testimonials from actual businesses and associations carry more weight than free clubs," McInnis says.

2. Videos Without Value

A demo reel should showcase more than stage presence. While no speaker should give away their entire presentation, at least one or two actionable tips should appear on video. "If you can't see them deliver useful content, neither will your audience," McInnis notes.

3. Personality Gaps

Speakers who claim they are "funny," "engaging," or "inspiring" should prove it. Their video should show laughter, energy, and personality—not just promises.

4. Chasing Hot Topics

Avoid speakers who jump on whatever happens to be trending. "Planners don't need someone who can crank out a talk on the flavor of the month," McInnis advises. "Strong speakers have a few well-developed topics that they've mastered and delivered successfully." They can share those keynotes in a variety of industries, of course, but don't try to cover every single topic.

5. Real Business Experience Matters

Every topic should tie back to a speaker's professional experience. For example, McInnis draws from her decades in stand-up comedy to address change and resilience. "Comedians adapt to different audiences, industries, and venues nightly. We learn resilience by failing forward. That's why I can authentically speak on those subjects," she explains.

For meeting planners, these five checkpoints can make the difference between a forgettable keynote and a conference highlight. "So beware," McInnis advises. "and remember, a great keynote speaker doesn't just fill a time slot—they elevate the entire event."

About Jan McInnis

Jan McInnis is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, comedian, and comedy writer who helps organizations find the funny in change and resilience. She has shared her humor and insights with thousands of business professionals across industries, blending laugh-out-loud comedy with practical strategies for today's workplace.