A well-run event requires thoughtful planning, strategic marketing, and intentional execution. But sometimes, even the best events on paper don’t translate to successful events in real life. At the end of the day, your event can only run as well as your staff. 

If your employees are burned out and exhausted, their productivity will plummet, along with event morale. 

In the workplace, burnout is characterized as “a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that also involves a sense of reduced accomplishment.” The symptoms— which include fatigue, low motivation, and difficulty making decisions—are disastrous for events and event employees  

Below are 6 ways to stop burnout before it starts. 

1. Find Employees Who Truly Care About Your Event

While you need competent staff for your event, you don’t want just anyone who can get the job done. When recruiting, keep an eye out for people who are genuinely interested in your industry.  

An employee who finds joy and satisfaction in working at your event will sustain energy and motivation far longer than the bored employee.

2. Consider the Length Of Your Event

While some events happen in the span of a single day or evening, others are ongoing. Think of multi-day conferences or camps that last all summer long. Whether your event runs late into the night or long into the season, take your employees into account. Hire enough staff to keep shifts manageable and energy high. 

3. Build an Employee Community 

According to the research, exhaustion and loneliness are both red flags for burnout. Take a step towards prevention by finding ways to facilitate a sense of connection, trust, and respect among your employees. 

Consider hosting a staff dinner, a baseball bonding outing, or a potluck at the park. For ongoing events, you can offer special access perks such as backstage passes to the conference or employee and family-only access to the camp ropes course.

4. Clarify Expectations

Ambiguous directions and unclear expectations zap energy fast. Communicate your expectations for their roles early on to enhance clarity and build trust. 

Each employee should bounce out of bed the morning of your event with a clear idea of their purpose—collectively and individually. 

5. Take Care of Them During the Event

Regardless of initial excitement levels, few people can work efficiently if their blood sugar has tanked or their back aches from standing still for 10 hours straight. 

You can help your employees stay energetic and on task by ordering sandwiches, keeping plenty of water available, and giving them a chance to take a break. 

Keep your employees nourished and hydrated so they can flourish in their roles.

6. Say Thank You 

Appreciation is fuel, and you want to ensure your employees leave with full tanks. Send them away with thank you notes, swag, or even a gift. 

Give them a shoutout on social media. Host an appreciation BBQ. Make sure your employees feel recognized and celebrated for their efforts and success. 

If you have any questions about keeping your event staff happy and energized, don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team.

We’re here to help you host your most successful event ever!

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— The RegFox Team