How to Get Great Results With Webinar Guest Speakers 

Webinars are like pizza. 🍕 With a single host, they are like plain cheese: fine but forgettable. Add a guest speaker! 🎤 Now you’ve got toppings, flavor, and something people actually want to talk about!

Sounds interesting? 🤔

Well, after over a decade in the e-learning, training, and online marketing industry, I’ve noticed a common problem for webinar hosts—keeping webinar audiences engaged. 💤 People tune out when sessions feel repetitive or lack excitement.

Guest speakers can fix that. ✅ They bring fresh perspectives, engaging stories, and valuable insights that keep attendees hooked. 🔥

In this blog, I’ll help you know better about webinar guest speakers, why they are important, how to choose the right one, key traits to look for, and the best formats to showcase them.

Let’s get started.

Who Is a Webinar Guest Speaker?

A webinar guest speaker is an expert or professional invited to share insights, experiences, or knowledge during a webinar. Their role is to add credibility and depth to the discussion, often offering a fresh perspective on the topic at hand. 

For instance, if a company hosts a webinar on digital marketing trends, it might invite a successful marketer to discuss real-world strategies that have worked for them. 

Think of them as the “main act” who keeps the audience engaged and informed, much like a keynote speaker at a conference, but in the virtual world!

How to Choose the Right Guest Speaker

Finding the perfect guest speaker or co-host for webinars can be tricky, but with a little planning and a good checklist, you’ll nail it. Let’s break it down step by step with real-life examples to make this fun and practical.

1. Know Your Audience’s Interests

Pick someone who speaks to what your audience cares about. 

For instance, if you’re hosting a tech conference, a keynote by Elon Musk would be a dream (but let’s be real, probably out of budget). A more realistic option? Invite a startup founder who can share their journey in launching a successful app.

2. Check Their Speaking Style

A speaker may have great content, but can they hold a crowd’s attention? Let’s say you’re organizing a high school career day. 

Someone like a motivational YouTuber with relatable and energetic storytelling could keep the students engaged better than a monotone CEO with slides full of charts.

3. Match Their Expertise to Your Theme

Think about the main topic of your event. Hosting a wellness retreat? A nutritionist who’s gone viral on Instagram for easy meal prep tips can fit right in. 

At one event I attended, the organizers invited a yoga teacher who shared mindfulness techniques, and it hit the mark perfectly.

4. Look for Relatable Experiences

Audiences love hearing real, personal stories. If your event is about overcoming challenges, someone who has been through the grind and come out stronger—like a Paralympic athlete—can inspire people. 

For example, at a charity gala, I once heard a war veteran share their journey to recovery, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

5. Prioritize Availability & Budget

Big names are exciting but might blow your budget. 

When my friend organized a community entrepreneurship workshop, they reached out to a successful local coffee shop owner instead of a famous speaker. It was affordable, and the speaker’s insights felt more tangible to the audience.

6. Do Your Homework

Research potential speakers. Watch their past speeches online to see if their vibe fits your event. A company I worked with once hired a speaker based solely on their impressive resume, but they turned out to be super dry on stage. 

Trust me, you don’t want that mistake!

7. Focus on Engagement, Not Just Prestige

Sometimes, a lesser-known speaker with interactive elements—like live Q&A or storytelling—makes a bigger impact. 

At a marketing summit, a podcaster ran a session that got the audience brainstorming ideas on the spot. It was way more fun than just listening to a slideshow lecture.

Here’s a quick video on how to engage with your webinar audience:

8. Test Their Knowledge of Your Audience

Before confirming, ask your potential speaker how they’d tailor their talk to your event. If they’re vague or dismissive, it’s a red flag. Once, I saw a speaker bomb a nonprofit event because they didn’t understand the audience’s struggles.

Why Include a Guest Speaker in Your Webinar

Webinars are great for sharing knowledge, but let’s face it—sometimes, they can feel like just another online lecture. Adding a guest speaker can completely change the game. Here’s why inviting a guest speaker is a smart move for your webinar:

1. Bring Fresh Perspectives to Keep Content Dynamic

A guest speaker in webinars brings a different point of view, which can spice up your content. If your webinar is about digital marketing, inviting an influencer who’s mastered TikTok can offer tips your audience won’t find in a typical playbook.

2. Boost Audience Engagement by Adding Excitement

Let’s be honest: a new voice keeps things interesting. A guest speaker with a dynamic personality or real-life success stories can hold attention better than slides filled with stats. 

I once attended a webinar where a fitness coach shared their journey—it made the entire session feel alive.

3. Build Credibility with Recognized Experts

Having a well-known or highly skilled speaker adds instant credibility to your webinar. Imagine hosting a health-focused session and featuring a doctor or a wellness expert. Their presence alone reassures your audience that the content is valuable.

4. Reach a Wider Audience Through Their Network

Guest speakers often come with their own followers. A collaboration could mean your webinar reaches people who might not have heard of you otherwise. For example, co-hosting with a thought leader in your industry can bring in their loyal fans.

5. Make the Content Memorable with a Unique Delivery

Sometimes, what sticks with people isn’t just the information but the way it’s delivered. A guest speaker who’s funny, relatable, or deeply inspiring can make your webinar unforgettable. Think of it as adding a touch of personality to the session.

Here’s a quick video with Michael and Amy on how to improve your on-camera presence and make your content memorable with unique delivery:

6. Add a Q&A With an Expert to Deepen Learning

A guest speaker can be the perfect person to answer audience questions. For instance, a travel blogger at a tourism webinar could give detailed tips that go beyond what you might know yourself. It creates a real-time, value-packed experience.

7. Enhance Networking Opportunities for Attendees

A guest speaker can create opportunities for connections. Whether sharing contact info or leading a breakout discussion, they help create a network effect, which works wonders for professional events.

8. Break the Monotony to Keep Your Audience Engaged

Let’s face it—hearing the same voice for an hour can get a little dull. A guest speaker breaks things up and adds variety. It’s like hitting refresh mid-session, keeping everyone energized till the end.

Including a guest speaker in your webinar isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a way to level up the experience for your audience, improve your content’s value, and even expand your reach. 

So, next time you’re planning a webinar, think about who could bring that extra spark!

How to Introduce a Guest Speaker in a Webinar

Introducing a guest speaker in a webinar isn’t just about saying their name and title—it’s your chance to set the stage and get your audience excited. 

A solid introduction can create anticipation and set the right tone for what’s to come. Here’s a step-by-step guide to a sample introduction of guest speaker for webinar, providing you with a clearer idea:

1. Start With a Warm Welcome for the Audience

Kick things off by thanking your audience for being there. 

For example:
“Good afternoon, everyone! Thank you for joining us today. We’re so excited to have you here for this insightful session.”

2. Briefly Mention the Topic to Build Interest

Give a quick teaser of what the session is about. 

For example:
“Today, we’re diving into the art of storytelling in marketing—a topic that can make or break your campaigns.” This gives your audience a reason to stay tuned.

3. Highlight the Speaker’s Credentials Without Overloading

Introduce the speaker by summarizing their background and achievements, but keep it short and sweet. 

For instance:
“Our guest today is Jamie Lane, an award-winning marketer who’s worked with Fortune 500 companies to craft stories that drive millions in revenue.”

4. Share a Personal or Relatable Anecdote

If you know the speaker personally or have seen their work, add a quick story. 

For example:
“I first saw Jamie speak at a conference last year, and I still remember the clever analogy they used about storytelling being like baking a cake—it was both insightful and hilarious!”

5. Connect the Speaker’s Expertise to the Audience’s Needs

Explain why the speaker is a great fit for this session. 

For instance:
“Jamie’s ability to simplify complex concepts and make them actionable is exactly what we need as we navigate marketing challenges.”

6. Keep the Tone Positive and Enthusiastic

Your energy sets the mood. Show genuine excitement, like:
“I’m thrilled to introduce someone whose expertise will truly elevate our understanding today.” Enthusiasm is contagious!

7. Pass the Mic Smoothly

End with a clear transition to the speaker. 

For example:
“Without further ado, please join me in welcoming Jamie Lane. Jamie, over to you!”

So, mastering the art of introductions can leave a lasting impression on your audience and set the tone for a successful session. Use the above steps as an example of how to introduce a guest speaker in a webinar and make your next event impactful.

Key Traits to Look for in Webinar Guest Speakers

Choosing the right guest speaker for your webinar is about finding someone who can connect with your audience, deliver value, and make the session unforgettable. Here are the key traits to look for in a guest speaker in webinars:

1. Expertise in the Topic to Deliver Value

Your speaker should know the subject inside out. For example, if your webinar is on AI trends, you’ll want someone like a data scientist or tech innovator who can break down complex ideas into practical takeaways.

2. Engaging Communication Skills to Keep Attention

A good speaker knows how to hold an audience. Look for someone who can balance facts with storytelling. I once attended a webinar where the speaker used personal anecdotes to explain tough marketing strategies—it made everything more relatable.

3. Authenticity to Build Trust

Audiences can spot a sales pitch from a mile away. Choose someone who shares real experiences instead of overly polished, canned lines. For instance, a sustainability expert who discusses both their successes and failures will feel much more genuine.

(Image Source: Freepik)

4. Ability to Adapt to Your Audience’s Needs

Not every audience is the same, so the speaker should tailor their content. For example, if they’re addressing beginners in a field, they should avoid overwhelming jargon. An HR webinar I joined had a guest speaker who took live questions and adjusted their content based on the audience—such a win!

5. Strong Stage Presence to Create Impact

Even in a virtual setting, charisma matters. Look for someone who’s confident, lively, and makes you feel like you’re having a one-on-one conversation, even in a group.

6. Passion for the Subject to Inspire the Audience

When a speaker truly loves what they’re talking about, it’s contagious. Imagine a chef passionately explaining the art of creating the perfect dish—it pulls you in, even if you’re not a foodie.

7. Professionalism to Represent Your Brand Well

Your guest speaker becomes a reflection of your webinar and your brand. Choose someone who respects time, comes prepared, and collaborates well with your team.

8. Flexibility for Tech and Format Adjustments

Webinars come with their share of technical issues. A great speaker won’t get flustered and will roll with the punches if things don’t go as planned. I once saw a guest speaker charm an audience even when their slides wouldn’t load—pure magic!

Top Formats to Showcase Guest Speakers in Your Webinar

A guest speaker can elevate your webinar, but the format you choose plays a huge role in how impactful your session will be. The right setup ensures they shine, your audience stays engaged, and the content feels fresh. 

Here are some top formats to consider for showcasing your guest speakers:

1. Keynote Presentation for In-Depth Expertise

Let your guest speaker take center stage with a full-length webinar presentation. For example, if you’ve invited a bestselling author, give them the spotlight to dive deep into their expertise and share actionable insights.

Example format: 

“Our speaker will guide us through a 30-minute presentation, followed by a 10-minute Q&A session.”

Content during the webinar:

“Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned climate scientist, to discuss actionable ways to tackle carbon emissions. Dr. Carter will be sharing her latest research findings and how they apply to industries like ours. After the presentation, we’ll open the floor for your questions, so stay tuned!”

2. Fireside Chat for a Conversational Vibe

This format is more casual and intimate. You, as the host, act as a moderator, asking questions while the speaker responds. I once attended a fireside chat with a startup founder where they shared their challenges and wins—it felt like an honest conversation rather than a lecture.

Example format: 

“The host and guest speaker will sit down for a 40-minute chat, exploring key themes and personal stories.”

Content during the webinar:

“I’m so excited to be chatting today with Sarah Rodriguez, founder of GreenBuild, a startup revolutionizing eco-friendly construction. Sarah, let’s start with your journey—what inspired you to take the leap into entrepreneurship?”

3. Panel Discussion for Multiple Perspectives

Bring together several guest speakers to discuss a topic from different angles. For instance, a webinar on sustainable living could feature an environmentalist, a green entrepreneur, and a city planner. The variety keeps things dynamic and insightful.

(Image Source: Facebook)

Example format: 

“Each panelist will have 10 minutes to share their perspective, followed by a 20-minute discussion and live audience Q&A.”

Content during the webinar:

“Joining us today are three incredible experts: Dr. Ava Lin, a marine biologist; Michael Greene, CEO of EcoTech; and urban planner Nina Ellis. Together, we’ll explore how cities can adopt sustainable practices for a greener future. Let’s start with you, Dr. Lin—what are the biggest challenges marine ecosystems face due to urbanization?”

4. Live Q&A for Interactive Engagement

Let your audience directly interact with the guest speaker by asking questions in real time. This format works especially well for subject matter experts or influencers who can provide tailored advice. 

I remember a Q&A with a career coach that left attendees with actionable tips they couldn’t get elsewhere.

Example format: 

“The speaker will start with a 5-minute introduction, followed by a 30-minute live Q&A where attendees can submit questions via chat.”

Content during the webinar:

“We’re thrilled to have Mark Simmons, a renowned career coach, with us today. Before we dive into your questions, Mark will kick things off with a few quick tips for advancing your career in a competitive market. After that, we’ll take your live questions, so keep them coming in the chat box!”

5. Workshop for Hands-On Learning

If your guest speaker is skilled in teaching, a workshop format can be a great way to engage. For example, a graphic designer could run a live session where attendees create something step by step. It’s practical and interactive.

Example format: 

“The speaker will guide attendees through a live demonstration, with time for questions after each step.”

Content during the webinar:

“Welcome to today’s live workshop on creating stunning social media graphics. Our expert, Emma Johnson, will walk you through designing a professional Instagram post using Canva. Grab your laptops and follow along—we’ll pause after each step to answer your questions!”

6. Interview for Highlighting Personal Stories

The host can interview the guest speaker about their journey, lessons learned, or unique insights. This format is perfect for thought leaders or industry veterans who have a compelling story to tell.

Example format: 

“A 30-minute interview where the host asks pre-prepared questions, followed by a 10-minute audience Q&A.”

Content during the webinar:

“Today, we’re sitting down with James Chen, the visionary behind one of the fastest-growing tech startups, CodeForward. James, let’s kick things off with this—what was the turning point that led you to create CodeForward?”

7. Case Study Presentation for Real-World Examples

Have your guest speaker walk the audience through a real-world project or experience. For instance, a marketing expert could share a campaign they worked on, breaking it down into actionable steps.

Example format: 

“The speaker will present a 20-minute case study, followed by a discussion of key takeaways and audience Q&A.”

Content during the webinar:

“Today, we have Priya Sharma, a digital marketing expert, to walk us through a real-life case study of a viral campaign she led for an e-commerce brand. Priya will share the strategies she used, the results, and how you can apply similar techniques to your campaigns. Let’s dive in!”

8. Debate for Engaging Contrasting Views

If your webinar topic has room for differing opinions, host a friendly debate between two guest speakers. This keeps the audience engaged while presenting diverse perspectives. Imagine a debate on remote work vs. in-office work—super engaging!

Example format: 

“Each speaker will have 10 minutes to present their stance, followed by a 15-minute moderated discussion and a live poll for audience feedback.”

Content during the webinar:

“Today’s debate focuses on the hot topic: Is remote work the future, or should we return to traditional office setups? On one side, we have Karen Mills, a remote work advocate, and on the other, Michael Ortiz, who champions the in-office model. After their opening statements, we’ll have a lively discussion and let you, the audience, weigh in with a live poll!”

Turn Ordinary Webinars to Extraordinary Events: Invite Guest Speakers

Guest speakers can transform your webinar into an engaging, value-packed event that your audience will remember. They bring fresh perspectives, build credibility, and help you reach new audiences. 

Whether through a keynote, fireside chat, or panel discussion, featuring an expert speaker adds depth and excitement to your content.

To make the process even smoother, use a reliable webinar platform like WebinarNinja. Its built-in features, such as seamless guest speaker integration, live Q&A tools, and automated follow-ups, make it easy to coordinate and deliver a professional, engaging webinar experience for everyone involved.