What makes a great event host?
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A good event host can make or break an event. They are the face of the event and the one who sets the tone for the entire conference.
A key responsibility of the event host, is to make sure that everyone is having a good time, audiences are engaged and speakers are delivering the goods.
But what exactly does it take to be a good event host? Let's take a look.
What is a host role?
An event hosts role is to be the liaison between the guests, the speakers and the event. They are responsible for making sure that everyone is comfortable and that the event is running smoothly. A good host will also be able to think on their feet and problem solve if any issues arise.
In many cases, when speakers have finished their presentation, the host is there to help facilitate Q&A, or to provide a summary of the key points or takeaways and and ensure any key messages are relayed to the audience.
What do you do when you host an event?
When you host an event, you are responsible for making sure that everyone is having a good time. This means being attentive to your event participants, being available to answer any questions they may have, and keeping the energy up throughout the evening. You will also need to be aware of any potential problems that could arise and be ready to handle them quickly and efficiently.
What should you look for in an event host?
While anyone can be an event host, there are certain qualities that make a great event host. Here are some key qualities of a good event host:
The ability to engage with people
A great event host is someone who is able to engage with any type of person or level of seniority. They should be able to quickly build rapport and create a connection. This is important as it will help put people at ease and make them feel comfortable before they go on stage and during Q&A sessions.
The ability to think on their feet
An event host needs to be able to think on their feet and problem solve. Things can quickly change at an event, and a good host will be able to adapt and roll with the punches.
Whether the sound system goes down, perhaps slides don't work or it's a last minute speaker cancellation, a good host will be able to handle any situation that comes their way and adapt their own style to fit the situation.
Flexibility
A good event host should also be flexible and able to change their plans on the fly if needed. If a speaker goes over their allocated time, a good host will be able to quickly adjust their own schedule in order to make sure that everything runs smoothly and on time.
A stickler for time keeping
A good event host is a stickler for time keeping. They will make sure that everything starts and finishes on time, and that there are no awkward pauses in between each speaker or session.
They will also be aware of any time-sensitive content in the presentations and make sure that this is adhered to. For example, if there is a competition with a prize that needs to be given away at a certain time, the host will make sure that this happens.
The ability to command attention
When an event host is on stage, they need to be able to command attention . This means having the ability to project their voice, as well as using body language and facial expressions to engage with the audience.
A good host will also be aware of their own energy levels and make sure that they are maintaining a high level of energy throughout the event, in order to keep the audience engaged.
Part of your conference team
Event hosts should be considered as a professional part of your events or conference team. The host is going to be on stage, in front of your event participants, representing your brand.
This means that they need to have a good understanding of your brand and be able to embodies its values when they're presenting. It's not to say they should hide away their own charismatic attributes that make them a great host, not at all, you want to embrace the skills of your host and ensure they're primed to deliver a great experience.
Need a corporate events host?
Hosts can cover a spectrum of different types of events or business. Some specialise in large crowds and some are more suited to intimate audiences such as those at a smaller corporate event.
So it's important to understand where your host fits into your event type and whether or not they're a fit for your company or agency.
How do you book an event host?
If you're looking to book an event host, the best place to start is by searching in your business sector to see if there are any experienced names that come up on search.
An obvious place to start for any business, after a quick search online, is to ask your Linkedin Network. The power of recommendations from those in your industry should not be underestimated.
Either way, have an event brief ready that you can share with your prospective host, so they know what to expect from your event.
Is an event host the same as a keynote speaker?
Sometimes it could be, sure. But an event host is more often than not the person who will be introducing your keynote speaker, rather than being the star of the show themselves.
Think of an event host as the glue that holds everything together and keeps your event running smoothly.
In summary, a good event host is someone who is attentive, personable, and able to think on their feet. They are responsible for making sure that everyone is comfortable and that the event runs smoothly. If you have these qualities, then you have what it takes to be a great event host!
Need a host for your next event, exhibition, conference or corporate event?
Then get in touch with Matt Coyne from Waves Connects. Matt is a professional conference and events host with years of experience in the industry.
He has a wealth of knowledge and understanding of how to make sure an event runs smoothly, from start to finish. Matt is also a great speaker and motivator, which makes him the perfect person to get your event participants engaged and excited about what's to come.
Get in touch with Matt today to find out more about how he can help make your next event a success!