How much does a motivational speaker cost?
Motivational speakers engage and motivate audiences and can add interest to office functions, conferences and other events. Great speakers make an impact on attendees and can transform an ordinary event into a call to action (see more reasons to hire a motivational speaker here). Speakers cost anywhere from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on their fame and experience. Speakers who are more famous, renowned or in demand generally have higher fees.
Event pricing
Most motivational speakers charge by the event. For example, Jen Croneberger of JLynne Consulting Group in Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, charges $2,000–$5,000 per event. Speaking engagements involve much more than the one hour the person speaks. Most speakers block out an entire day for one event and must also spend time preparing for the event as well as traveling to and from the event.
Nature of the event
Many motivational speakers charge different rates for different types of speaking. A keynote address may cost one price, a half-day seminar another price, and a full-day seminar or emcee gig another. Many speakers customize their quote for customers rather than offer a standard price list. If clients have a specific budget in mind, many speakers can outline exactly what they can get for that budget.
For example, Well Said Dave of Flemington, New Jersey, charges different fees for four different types of work: speaking, training, coaching and webinars. For some events, he charges a flat fee, sometimes he charges a fee based on the number of people participating in the program, and other times he charges an hourly rate.
Travel expenses
Some motivational speakers charge for flights or train rides, mileage, food and lodging costs. Some speakers build these expenses into their overall fee, and some charge a fixed travel fee based on the location. Others invoice all of their travel expenses separately from the event fee.
Deposit
Many speakers request a deposit of up to 50 percent to secure their services for an event.
Cost-saving strategies
Some motivational speakers are open to negotiation or discounts. For example, favorable terms can be negotiated if the speaker is hired for more than one event. In addition, speakers may offer discounts or lower rates if you have valuable goods, services or perks to trade for their time or if you purchase some of their products.