An Interview with Rohit Talwar

If you could speak at any event, past or future, what would it be?

Davos World Economic Forum, World Business Forum in the US.

How did the corporate speaking start?

Was doing occasional speaking at public conferences and then a friend of a friend who was a professional speaker saw me speak and encouraged me to become a professional. Approached some bureaus and started networking to generate speaking opportunities – blossomed from there.

Can you remember your first speaking engagement?

I think the first ever paid gig was for Time Manager International in Denmark at their annual internal conference – 200 very positive people – quite an experience.

And your last event?

A dinner speech for the top 48 executives of Ball Corporation in Tucson Arizona – my role was to inspire their thinking about growth over the next ten years at the start of a strategy retreat

Which event has been your favourite and why?

Hard to say – lots to choose from. Really enjoyed chairing and keynoting the PATA CEO conference – a very senior audience and lots of great content.

Who would you most like to share a platform with?

Obama

On average, how many times a year do you speak at corporate events?

I typically do around 50-60 events a year – about 50% corporate – the rest association and public conferences

Do you use powerpoint?

Yes

Are you as happy speaking to 50 as to 1,000 people?

Yes

How do you like to be introduced?

Global futurist who helps clients understand and respond to the trends and forces shaping the future

Do you always like to do a briefing call before the event?

Prefer it – builds a relationship with the client

What are the most asked for topics?

Future of the global economy, the next ten years, driving growth, radical innovation, competing in emerging markets, business sustainability

Is your speech interactive with audience participation?

Ideally – depends on what the client wants

Do you have any funny/embarrassing speaking anecdotes you care to share?

Did a workshop in the dark in Nigeria. Gave a three minute speech in Portugal because the chair overran by 45 minutes and I had to leave to catch a flight. Stood in for Schwarzenegger at a conference

Your favourite film?

Shawshank Redemption

Favourite book?

Name of the Rose

Favourite holiday destination?

Italy

What’s your tipple – wine, beer, champagne?

Champagne

Country or townie?

Bit of both