Why Being Easy to Work With Matters
Recently, a friend of mine booked a speaker for their event. The talk itself went well, the audience was engaged, and the content was solid. However, they told me they’d never book him again to host an awards show.
Why?
Quite simply…
❌ He was difficult to work with.
And in the speaking industry, that’s a deal-breaker.
I remember something Maria Franzoni once told me: “Bureaus and clients have a lot of choice. If you want to be a busy speaker, you MUST be easy to work with. That’s non-negotiable.”
The truth is, event organisers aren’t just booking your keynote. They’re booking peace of mind. They want to know that by choosing you, their stress levels will go down, not up.
As an awards host in the UK, as well as a motivational speaker and magician for corporate events, I’ve learned first-hand that professionalism off stage is just as important as what you deliver on stage
5 Ways to Be Easy to Work With as a Speaker or Host
Stay Positive at All Times
Bookers and event organisers already have enough on their plates, dealing with venues, catering, and last-minute changes. Therefore, if you bring positive energy from the start, you instantly make their life easier. A cheerful, “no problem” attitude goes a long way.
Be Prompt with Paperwork and Replies
No one likes chasing emails. If you can’t stay on top of admin, get help from a PA or manager. Quick replies and completed forms show professionalism and build trust. I don’t want anyone’s initial impression of Ben Hanlin to be that I’m unreliable and can’t get the simple stuff done.
Always Do a Pre-Booking Call
It still surprises me that some speakers refuse this. A quick pre-event call reassures the client, gives you valuable context, and starts building rapport. In addition, it’s one of the easiest ways to show you’re a safe pair of hands to host a great awards show or event.
Be Clear About Requirements
Surprises are wonderful in a presentation, but not in logistics. If you need a lapel mic, a table on stage, or specific AV support, say so early. Clear requirements avoid last-minute scrambles that stress out organisers.
Arrive Early
There is nothing that relaxes a client more than seeing you on site, ready to go. Arriving early means you’ve factored in travel delays, you can test equipment, and you’ll be calm and confident when you go on.
Why Organisers Will Remember Your Professionalism
Here’s the thing: audiences might remember your speech, but organisers will always remember how easy (or difficult) you were to work with.
A happy event booker means repeat business, glowing recommendations, and a reputation that keeps doors opening.
That’s why speakers and hosts are often rebooked. It is not just about how to host a great awards show — it’s about being professional, approachable, and easy to work with from the first email to the final applause.
👉 Over to you – what’s your go-to strategy for keeping clients happy? As an awards host in the UK, my goal is always the same: keep audiences engaged and organisers relaxed. Click here to see how I can support your next event.