Do you have an important event coming up that needs staffing? Here is a list of a few things to think about, when hiring temporary event staff.
1. Identify what type of staff you need for your event.
The type of event staff you require will depend on what kind of event you are hosting. Most events where food or drinks are being served will require a wide range of hospitality staff such as bartenders, barbacks, waiters and catering staff. Having high calibre staff can help improve your event and leave an overall positive impression with your guests. On the other hand, staff that are unprofessional, or staff that don’t show up to work can put a strain on the entire event. Think carefully about the roles you need filled and the type of skills they require, this will ensure you can hire the best event staff for your specific needs.
2. Plan ahead, be flexible with the numbers and take your time to decide.
To ensure your event is stress free and runs smoothly, it’s important to hire the staff you need early. In hospitality experience comes with time, so if the agency you are considering displays an extensive client list and can offer a few testimonials or reviews, they are likely to be a good match for your event. Once you know the number of invited attendees you will be able to estimate the amount of staff you may need. Ensure your agency knows how many hospitality staff you need (at the most) and do not forget to take into account the unexpected situations, such as a last-minute increase in the guest count, or a scheduled staff member falling sick. Hire them early so you will not be understaffed on the day.
3. Hire hospitality staff that fit in with your brand.
There are many people who claim to be waiters, chefs or bartenders but will work independently and pick their events rather than being affiliated with a staffing agency, uninsured and inexperienced event staff would be the last thing you want in your event. Always check a company background, ask for testimonials and check reviews, ask for pictures from previous events, make sure your brand identify itself with the people are you planning to hire. Your event staff will be the face of your event and brand. It is important that you hire temporary staff that fit in with your style and image.
4. Be upfront with what the job involves.
Ensure you are honest about the role and its responsibilities. Make sure you give a clear picture of what your temporary event staff may be doing, good and bad, as this can help avoid unnecessary stress on the day. If your event staff know what to expect they can be prepared.
5. Treat staff how you would like to be treated.
One of the most common myths about hospitality staff is the idea that they are uneducated. However, this is simply not true in many cases. In fact, a lot of people who work in hospitality staffing are pursuing higher education and are working as hospitality staff to supplement their income. They are there to help you run your event, and they want it to be successful too! Always treat people with respect and consideration. If you build a positive working relationship, you may even hire the same staff for your next event in the future.
This post was written by Adrian Emanoil from EMN Staffing Group. They are an exhibitor on the WeddingShow247 Other Services floor of the Planning Hall. You can visit their WeddingShow247 exhibition stand here.
