MC and Hosting
This year has been massive for MCing contracts and I am so grateful to every event coordinator that has invited me to be a part of their events.
MCing is easily my favourite service offered through Amiable Communications. It's an absolute privilege to bring energy and fun to events and help them run smoothly.
I've had such variety in the events I've MCd this year from live cooking demonstrations, three day professional conferences and gala balls, to youth functions, festivals and community events. Each one has been different and I've learnt something from every single one.
Speaking of learning here are five tips I have for anyone MCing - hope it helps out.
Have fun! The gigs that I genuinely enjoy always tend to be the ones with the best feedback. Throw yourself into the vibe of the event and make it fun in which ever way suits your style.
Listen to the crowd. Read the energy in the room. If the audience needs to be lifted up because they've gotten a little flat put the energy in to sort that out. Don't introduce people until the audience is listening as well - make sure your paying attention to the crowd that's how you know to change tact and improvise with them.
Double check pronunciation. And look I've had some big fails this year when it comes to pronouncing names or even accidentally calling something the wrong thing - it definitely pays to put effort into your preparation and ask people how to say things (especially in the world of acronyms!)
But on that - don't be too hard on yourself if you make a mistake. Mistakes are human. I don't think anyone expects an MC to be perfect - otherwise why bring a human in to MC in the first place. Be yourself, be humble and be human. Most of the time if there's a mistake or change in the running order the audience doesn't know unless you show it - so be kind to yourself and carry on.
Bring the energy. Good MCs are like batteries. When they're on the stage everyone gets recharged so that the next speaker, presenter or activity has the best chance of succeeding. You should be exhausted after any MC gig - give it all and then go and relax afterwards
I adore the art of MCing and look forward to more awesome gigs in 2020.
