Hello, Event Maestros and Maestras! Ah, audience feedback—the two words that can either make your heart sing or sink. But fear not, for I bring good news: If utilized correctly, this goldmine of opinions can actually help you curate an even better experience for your next big shindig. So, buckle up as we delve into the art of using feedback to find your next Steve Jobs or, better yet, Steve Martin.
Why Audience Feedback Isn’t Just for Reality TV
Let’s get this out of the way: Yes, you should absolutely care about what your audience thinks. Your event might be your baby, but it’s the audience that decides if it’s a wunderkind or just another toddler tossing spaghetti on the wall.
Sound Bite: You’re the conductor, but the audience is your orchestra. Without them, there’s no music.
The “Funny” Business of Keynote Speaking
Here it is, the part you’ve been waiting for—the funny bone of keynote speaking. We’ve all heard speakers claim they’re “humorous,” only for their jokes to land as smoothly as a cat on a water slide.
Real Talk: Getting a speaker who can genuinely make people laugh—a stand-up comedy level funny—can elevate your event from ‘forgettable’ to ‘legendary.’
The Rating Game: Keeping It Simple
When collecting feedback, avoid the Shakespearean soliloquies. Keep it simple. Ask attendees to rate the speaker’s performance on a scale of 1 to 10. That way, even those too lazy to write a sentence can still give you their two cents.
Quick Tip: Use QR codes to make feedback collection a breeze. Point, click, done.
Keywords Speak Louder Than Words
Apart from numerical ratings, ask attendees for one or two keywords that sum up their experience. This will give you a clear picture of public opinion without having to sift through War and Peace-length essays.
Did You Know: ‘Boring,’ ‘Inspiring,’ and ‘Funny’ can tell you more than a 500-word dissertation on the speaker’s choice of necktie.
Spotting Patterns, Making Plans
Look for patterns in the feedback. If words like ‘dynamic,’ ‘engaging,’ or ‘hilarious’ keep popping up, you’re onto a winner. On the flip side, if you see ‘yawn-inducing,’ ‘confusing,’ or—God forbid—’offensive,’ then it’s time to rethink your selection process.
Nugget of Wisdom: Repeated words are like neon signs pointing you towards what your audience truly values.
And Now for the Grand Finale: Act on It!
What’s the point of feedback if you’re going to toss it in a drawer? Use this data to inform your next selection. If people loved the funny guy, get more humorists on stage. If they appreciated data-driven talks, well, find someone who can turn Excel sheets into poetry.
Takeaway: Feedback isn’t just a pat on the back or a slap on the wrist—it’s your roadmap for the next event.
There it is, your step-by-step guide to using audience feedback for speaker selection. By valuing your audience’s input, you’re not just creating a single successful event; you’re establishing a legacy of amazing experiences. And remember, a genuinely funny speaker is worth their weight in gold—or at least in golden laughter. So go ahead, make ’em laugh.