Choosing a speaker: don't pull a "James Franco"

Did you see the Oscars Sunday night?

There is pretty universal agreement that James Franco was a about as bad a co-host as you could expect to see -- completely lacking in energy; bereft of wit; just all around bad. Even the phenomenal Anne Hathaway -- who was obviously doing everything she could to compensate for his inadequacies -- was dragged down by his poor performance.

For those of us who plan events, is there a lesson to be learned from this?

Yes. This problem almost certainly have been avoided and the fact that it was not was almost certainly the fault of the event organizers.

RULE -- Do not choose speakers you have not seen or for whom you do not have strong, public speaking-oriented references. James Franco is a remarkable actor, but this is radically different from being a fast-on-your-feet host of a live event. My guess is that he was chosen based on an assumption that his acting ability would translate into public speaking/hosting ability.

Bad idea.

Event organizers do this kind of thing ALL THE TIME. They see someone who is articulate and well spoken and assume she will be a great addition to the program. Sometimes this works. Often, it does not.

Choose your speakers carefully. Make sure that their experience and references are appropriate to your need. Base you decisions on assumptions at your own risk.

Sean Spence
Community Events
www.commevents.
seanspence@earthlink.net
573-823-1308