Avoiding the TEMPtation to Cut Corners On-SIte

Written by CTE employees

As event planners, we have all needed a helping hand on-site at our events. Temporary staffing agencies have provided us with the extra boost so badly needed. Skill sets and pricing vary so widely from city to city however, that you often don't know what you are going to come by. There are a few simple, time saving things that can be done to put your mind at ease when your convention dates roll around.

Your pre-show planning is important for the success of your event and the success of your temporary staff. Research several temp agencies before making your decision and request and check references carefully. IF several other event planners had problems with an agency, there is a good chance that you will too. Figure out exactly what you need your temporary staff to do and what skills are required when making your staffing requests. Passing out bags and ribbons isn't very difficult, but if your temps will be required to do a large amount of on-site registration, requesting skilled typists will speed up the lines.

When scheduling, make sure that you have enough staff for your peak registration times. This will make the lines go faster for the attendees and lessen the stress of the temp staff. Less rushing is less error when entering registrations. Also, make sure that your registration provider trains the staff on-site and provides you with written instructions. The temps need to be trained on the system they will be using and there needs to be ample time to cover all of the material they will need to learn.

There are also several things that you can do on-site. A pre-event meeting introducing your event staff to the temporary staff is a great way to create a team environment. A short briefing will let the temporary staff know who to go to with questions if a problem should arise. Water stations and breaks are also a good way to keep your event running smoothly. Thirsty, tired temps are more likely to make errors and more likely not to return on day two.

The personal (or is that personnel?) touch counts. Your temporary staff are ambassadors for your host city, so keeping them happy is a great way to ensure the continued success of your event. The friendly local flair can help disarm event the grouchiest attendee who has just waded their way through crowded roads and airport lines.