Are You a Speaker Diva?

“Did you hear about our keynote speaker?  He had a huge blow up with the hotel staff while checking in! Sounds like he’s going to be a nightmare to work with.” 

Uh oh… DIVA ALERT!!  

No speaker wants to be labeled a diva.  

Not only does it make you look bad, but it can also have a huge impact on your speaking business.  So, when subscriber Kim “KC” Campbell sent us this question, we knew it was time to write.

KC asked:

“What to do when the stage setup isn't what you requested? Podium, chairs, etc? The organizer says they can't move it, how much do you push? I feel like there's a line between knowing what will be in the best service of the audience and not being a speaker diva!”

Now, I happen to know KC, so I’m just going to tell you right off the bat that she is NOT a speaker diva.  And I can’t imagine a situation where she could come across as one.

But that doesn’t mean all speakers are in the clear. 

Your on-site behavior and how you treat others can directly impact your future business opportunities.  And just like the speaker who got angry during hotel check in… you could quickly find yourself with a “diva” label you didn’t want.

How you handle challenges during your trip – from difficult travel accommodations, to an incorrect stage set up, to a disastrous tech check – can be just as important as the content you deliver.

So, let’s start by drawing a clear line between the actions of a diva versus a professional…

What the Diva Demands (and Why It Backfires)

A speaker diva is someone who places their personal preferences above the audience’s experience as a whole.  I’m sure you’ve heard many diva stories about rock stars and celebrities.  They make rigid demands that create stress for everyone around them.

“I only drink Fiji bottled water…  I require a limo ride to and from the airport…  It’s my way or the highway… Just deal with it!”

A speaker diva is unwilling to compromise and consider any deviation from their requests as a personal affront.

“I asked for no podium.  I cannot believe you're asking me to perform with a podium.  This is disgusting and disappointing.”

They’ll make their dissatisfaction and frustration visible to everyone around them when the conditions they asked for aren’t exactly perfect.  Now, let’s compare this to a speaking professional…

What the Pro Prioritizes (and Why It Pays Off)

When it comes to a professional speaker, the attitude is totally different.  Instead of demanding things for their own satisfaction, they advocate appropriately only for things that will affect the audience experience. 

They’re totally adaptable to whatever the event organizer requires and needs.  The professional only makes requests that are directly connected to the audience’s benefit rather than their own personal comfort.

“Can you please move the podium to stage left? I do a special bit stage right and I’m worried the podium will block the audience’s view.”

Next, the professional is always prepared for alternative ideas for every technical requirement they’ve asked for.  They solve problems collaboratively when any challenge arises.  When a “problem” comes up during a tech check (and it often will), the professional is ready to work together with the tech team to find a solution.

The Secret Observers Who Control Your Future Gigs

Whether you conduct yourself as a diva or as a professional will have an enormous impact on the health of your speaking business.

Why?