An opening speaker sets the tone for the entire conference – so selecting the right one is a crucial part of coordinating any event. A great opening speaker must inspire their audiences to start a discourse, to open up lines of communication among colleagues. They also need to be energetic, motivating, and engaging in order for attendees to get the most out of the event. Here are our Top Ten Opening Speakers:

Bill Acheson

Not only do Bill Acheson’s compelling presentations teach audience members how to project themselves using non-verbal communication in both business and life, but he also teaches attendees how to pick up on the subconscious messages sent by others. His keynote will teach professionals how to examine body language, giving a deeper understanding of the attitude and intent of their colleagues, their superiors, and their clients and customers.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Bill-Acheson

Shawn Achor 

For so many people, happiness is the ultimate goal. Unfortunately, most people have their “happiness plan” backwards – and that’s where positive psychology expert Shawn Achor comes in.  He provides practical applications to help his audiences shift their mindsets, teaching them how to be happy first, and watch the rest fall into place.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Shawn-Achor

Ty Bennett

Ty’s keynotes teach attendees how to effectively engage others on an emotional level, leading to stronger connections, stronger commitment, and ultimately a stronger bottom-line. Audiences describe his presentations as inspiring, thought-provoking, and entertaining.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Ty-Bennett

Anthony “AB” Bourke

As a former military fighter pilot, Anthony “AB” Bourke knows the importance of effective and clear communication as the basis for the execution of any successful initiative or strategy. His interactive keynotes are full of engaging stories and practical tools used by real fighter squadrons to execute at the highest level.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Anthony-Bourke

Chip Eichelberger

Motivational Speaker Chip Eichelberger will energize your audience with his contagious enthusiasm. His interactive presentations allow audience members to break the ice and begin to collaborate. Attendees will leave his presentation feeling motivated, excited, and empowered to take on new and existing challenges.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Chip-Eichelberger

Chester Elton 

Dubbed “The Apostle of Appreciation” by The Globe and Mail, Chester Elton’s presentations explore the connection between effective recognition and employee engagement. His motivational keynotes are full of energy and enthusiasm, setting an exciting and positive foundation for any event.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Chester-Elton

Sally Hogshead 

Sally Hogshead is fascinating – she will have your attention from the moment she steps on the stage. And she can teach your audience how to be fascinating too! Sally’s energetic and practical presentations teach audiences how to stand-out, express their value, and be remembered. You won’t soon forget the Speaker who taught how to be remembered.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Sally-Hogshead

Dr. Nick Morgan

In today’s society, the attention span of the population is minimal at best – and this is also true in business. We are busier but more removed than ever before, and gaining (and sustaining) someone’s attention is a difficult feat. Dr. Nick Morgan will not only show you how to grab someone’s attention, but also how to persuade them to buy what you’re selling. Using recent studies in neuroscience, Dr. Morgan will show attendees how persuasion works and how you can leverage that knowledge to win anyone over.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Dr.-Nick-Morgan

Michelle Ray

Michelle Ray is on a mission to get workplaces to communicate, collaborate, and connect – and it all starts with you! Rather than addressing an entire team, Michelle’s keynotes target the individual and their attitude, self-leadership and self-motivation as the catalyst for a more cohesive and collaborative working environment.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Michelle-Ray

Mel Robbins

Mel Robbins keynotes are motivational, energizing, and inject new perspectives into the minds of attendees. Her easily applicable tools and insights will help your audience accelerate their personal and professional growth, as well as teach them how to achieve sustained positive/healthy behaviors and productivity.

Video: https://thesweeneyagency.com/speakers/Mel-Robbins

*Speakers are listed in alphabetical order