When planning an event, there are a lot of details that need to be covered. But, one thing you shouldn’t overlook is your staff. The team you hire will have a huge impact on how successful your event will be.
What are some of the main things to look for when staffing your event? We’ve compiled a list of traits to help you navigate hiring people who are perfect for the job.
Event staffing tips: 4 traits to look for in a brand ambassador
1. Previous experience and customer service skills
You want your event to run smoothly and for your event team to represent your brand in a manner that’s professional, approachable, and caring. Without reliable professionals, you won’t be able to convey what your business is about, and you may not reach the goals you set for your event. Therefore, hiring based on past experience and customer service skills is the right way to go.
Failing to interview potential staff is a mistake. Be sure to talk to candidates and ask them about the types of events they’ve worked in the past. Consider your event’s size, location, and goals, and be clear about your expectations in terms of how you want your staff to interact with the audience.
2. Ability to work independently and as part of a team
It’s important to pair staffers with the right type of event. This requires considering whether or not an individual works better independently or as part of a team. For certain events, you might need people who are capable of working completely on their own. Other events might require that staffers collaborate and work together from start to finish.
No matter what type of event you’re hosting, it’s best to have staff that will know how to work together. But, you also want them to have enough confidence to make decisions on their own.
It’s wise to hire professionals who can think on their feet and know when to escalate questions or issues. Look for event staff who have a proven record of being able to make quick decisions, who collaborate well with others, and who know when to ask for help versus when to handle something themselves.
3. An outgoing personality
Someone who is outgoing and isn’t afraid of approaching new people will be a valuable asset to your event team. They’ll help guests feel comfortable asking questions about your business, and they’ll also ensure everyone has a memorable time. The goal is to create a lasting impression so guests will remember the event and talk about it with their friends and family.
Although you certainly want someone outgoing, you also want to be sure they’ll know when to give the reins to someone else. In addition to being sociable, friendly, and fun, it’s a good idea to hire someone who isn’t afraid to answer a difficult question with, “I don’t know, but let me help you find that answer.” Rather than trying to come up with an answer that might be inaccurate, they care about giving guests the correct information about your brand.
4. An affinity for your brand and industry
Imagine two people working at the same event: one of them has a genuine interest in the brand and industry they represent, while the other doesn’t care too much about the products or services they’re promoting. Which one do you think would be more effective? Of course, the answer is the staffer who cares about the brand.
Staff members who are excited to learn about your business, and who want to discover as much as they can about your products and services, will be able to exude enthusiasm when interacting with guests. Plus, because they’re motivated enough to try your products or services, they’ll be able to answer questions from direct experience with your business, rather than merely from what they were told before the event.
The right training can make a big difference in this area. At Brand Activate, we train and encourage event staff to develop an affinity for your brand. This helps generate excitement for your business at the event.
Need help with event staffing or brand ambassador hiring?
Hiring the right staff for an event can be a daunting process. If you don’t have the time or resources to commit to finding the ideal staff for your next event, leave it to event staffing agencies like Brand Activate. We’re industry experts with several years of experience in recruiting and event training, so you don’t have to worry about doing it all yourself. Contact us to discover how we can make your next event a success with the right staff.