Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a speaker for my program or event?
1. Consult the list of speakers and topics.
2. Choose up to three speakers or topics in order of preference.
4. Once we review your completed request form, we'll contact you about booking a speaker.
5. When we contact you, we'll want to know some information that will help the speaker plan for your event, such as:
- your audience
- the goals of your event
- logistics about the venue and directions to the event location
- audiovisual equipment availability
- "day of" contact information
When introducing speakers to your group and in any advertising and media interviews related to the speaking engagement, please acknowledge the University of Alberta Speakers Bureau.*
How far in advance should I book a speaker?
To allow time to co-ordinate the speaker with your group and for the speaker to tailor their talk to your group, we ask that speaker requests be submitted at least eight weeks in advance of the event.
What is the minimum audience size to invite a speaker?
The Speakers Bureau is best suited for functions or gatherings of at least 30 attendees. Due to the significant time speakers invest to prepare and deliver their material, organizations must have the minimum number of attendees at their events.
The bureau may serve to connect organizations with speakers for private hire to give presentations that are beyond the mandate of university outreach (for example, a keynote speaker for a fee).
How often can I book a speaker?
To ensure communities have equal access to our speakers, an organization may request up to three speakers per calendar year. Please provide your top three choices when you book. We will do our best to secure your choices in the order you specify.
How much does it cost?
Many of our speakers provide their time and expertise to community groups at no cost. If your group customarily offers an honorarium to speakers, we respectfully request that the same courtesy be extended to our speakers.
Booking organizations are expected to cover any travel expenses our speakers may incur in Edmonton (e.g., parking) and all travel expenses outside of Edmonton (e.g., parking, transportation, accommodation and per diem).
Some speakers have a very demanding speaking schedule and have a fee associated with their appearances. Should your chosen speaker have special booking arrangements, we can guide you through the details of their agreements.
How do I provide feedback?
Evaluations are critical to sustaining quality programming and are helpful for the speakers themselves. Booking organizations are asked to complete a short evaluation within two weeks of the event and return it to the program lead.
* Views and opinions expressed by members of the U of A Speakers Bureau do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Alberta.
Contact
Anastasia Lim
Email: anastasia.lim@ualberta.ca
Phone: 780-248-1383