How to be a great eMCee

So, you’ve been asked to MC at a friend’s wedding, or look after presentation night at your local sports club. Perhaps you’re a member of a volunteer group and have been asked to host that all important fund raising lunch or dinner. Maybe the boss has asked you to make sure the new product launch runs smoothly.

Whatever the ‘gig’ may be, being an MC is an important position that can make or break an event.

At first you’re flattered. They must have picked you for your quick wit or unflappable charm, or perhaps your seductive speaking voice. Clanger number one.

It’s not about you. It’s about making sure the bride and groom have the best day possible, or that the club heroes are honoured, that people go away knowing the new widget is a world beater, or that the fund-raising target was reached.

After the initial ego boost is over, the uncertainty creeps in. Many will cope by simply saying, “It’ll be alright on the night. After all I was a wow at the last office party.” Clanger number two.

Being an MC requires planning.  You are far better to apply Murphy’s Law – if things can go wrong they will. Careful planning won’t guarantee things may not go a little astray, but you will be able to minimise the impact of a hitch if you are prepared.

Having decided to plan, you’d better ask for a bit of advice. You may think to yourself, “I’ll not bother the bride and groom. They’ve got enough to concentrate on, and besides … surprises can be fun. The best man is a hoot, and two of the bridesmaids have come up with a list of things. Uncle John is funny as a circus when he’s had a couple, and everyone knows that it’s the groom’s mother that really calls the shots.” Clanger number three.

Have one point of contact, and make sure the person chosen has the authority for that particular event. If the function is being run by a committee, then liaise with the chairperson. If it’s a wedding, what is it the bride and groom want?

With those three clangers ringing in your head it’s time to get serious about planning.

• Give yourself a timetable with deadlines and stick to it. Many organisations appoint an MC at the last minute which makes your job harder. If possible, get involved with the planning right from the start.
  Draw up a checklist of things that have to be done.
• Make up a contact list of key personnel and put the numbers in your phone.
• If any of the event involves being outside, ensure that you have a wet weather plan ready.
• You’ll probably need some technical support, so make sure you learn the technician’s name and that your equipment is compatible with the venue. That slide show that took you ages to compile is useless if you have the wrong connecting cable. Be clear and comprehensive in your briefing to the technician. Write a list so that you are not forever saying “Oh by the way … .”
• Make sure that the participants have a copy of the latest running sheet. When people see a timed order of events they are more inclined to stick to a schedule.
• Write your own introductions suitable to the occasion. Don’t just read out a long biography that’s been sent by the guest speaker … unless of course, it’s part of their contract.
• If the occasion is a formal one, then be sure that everyone is aware of the protocols demanded.

If you want to learn more about how to be a really good MC there are books and online tips, but best of all, get some professional training. A ‘hands on’ workshop with first class feed back is the best way to improve your skills.