By Mitra Sorrels, BizBash (Excerpt)

Guest speakers and experts are an important element of conferences, fund-raisers, and other events. Their reputation and name recognition can be big selling points in pre-event marketing, and their performance at the event can make—or break—the attendees’ experience. It’s not uncommon for planners to give their presenters gifts or upgrades as a way to say thanks (beyond the contracted speaking fee, of course). But is that necessary? We asked several prominent speakers to share their preferred perks. Here’s what they had to say.

“With every speaking opportunity I receive, I already feel like I’ve received a gift—the gift of attention. There’s only so much of it, yet there are new speakers every day competing for attention. While I believe all event hosts and organizers are intentionally meaning to do well, speakers don’t always want branded swag such as pens, bags, clocks, chargers, etc. Speakers do love a personalized experience such as a driver with their name at the airport, a handwritten thank-you note, and a special welcome when they walk into their room.”
Brian Solis, author and principal analyst at the Altimeter Group