FREE STUFF
for Master of Ceremonies

The inclusion of an emcee to an event, who over-sees all operations, controls the times and generally keeps things moving, can make a significant difference to the over-all success of the event.

I strongly suggest that you start planning your event well in advance. This small, but vital point will help you tremendously as you will not end up running out of time and settling for less. Consider selecting an MC at this early stage. He / she may have valuable input to add to the outline / tips below.

Being an MC can be great fun, if one understands what is expected, having the knowledge of what to say as well as how to say it.

Use the following list as a guideline when planning your next event. If you understand the role of the MC, you are already well on your way to a winning formula. Herewith a basic outline / tips to host / MC / emcee / Master of Ceremonies an event:

• Look the part by dressing for the event – it adds to the ambience
• The MC must arrive early for the function
• Have a clock in the room or on the lectern to monitor the time
• Consider interviewing people in the audience to add as comments
• Research the people or programs you will introduce as MC
• Try not to sound canned, but rather like you know the people well
• Plan your humor and interesting comments before the event
• Have a backup plan of extra jokes, comments or fill-ins
• Find out if there are any special guests that should be acknowledged
• Introduce yourself, even if you think everyone knows who you are
• Remind the audience why they have come to the event
• Have an agenda and stick to it (plan your work and work your plan)
• Outline the agenda briefly with the audience
• House keeping is vital and should be announced early in the evening
• All speakers should sit close to the stage / lectern
• Thank and comment briefly after each speaker has presented
• A comment on the speaker’s talk becomes a transition to the next introduction
• Keep the introductions short with a flowing outline of the speaker and topic
• Try to be “invisible” as your role is to make everyone else the star
• Only answer to one person during an event as this avoids confusion
• Being an MC is not for everyone – ensure you have what it takes
• Get used to your voice if you have not heard it through a sound system before
• Check for last minute changes before an event begins
• Speak clearly and as briefly as you can
• Monotone is a big danger to guard against
• The MC must know who controls the sound and music before the event
• Before starting, learn how to switch on and where to hold the microphone
• Never tap or click your fingers to check if the microphone is switched on
• A microphone amplifies the voice so there is no need to shout
• At the end of the event, hand the microphone back to the sound engineer
• An MC’s first responsibility is to the audience, ensuring a smooth event
• Try to sound as if you are speaking “off the cuff” and in total control
• Monitor the audience for sound problems throughout the event
• The MC sets the stage and pace of the program
• The MC pulls the entire event together, controlling the start and finish times
• The audience must feel as if the event was well planned and structured
• Typically, the weaker speakers should speak first at an event
• Carry spare A-6 white cards, a pen and a watch with you
• Introduce each speaker with their introductions written on the cards
• Number these white cards according to the schedule of speakers
• Write the speaker’s full name clearly at the top of the card
• Write the speaker’s time slot on the card and remind them of it beforehand
• Consider leading the applause when introducing a speaker
• Remain at the lectern until the speaker arrives on stage and takes over
• Know that last minute changes are part of every event
• Often a clever gimmick gets the attention of the audience
• Attempt to “bridge” segments of the meeting using comments / quotes
• Keep a spare pen and a second copy of the agenda in your pocket
• Look at your listeners while you speak, scanning the entire audience
• Use facial expressions to drive your enthusiastic introductions home
• The MC must remember to thank everyone for attending
• Close the event crisply, with no last minute announcements
• Close the event with as much enthusiasm as it was opened
• The closing comments should mirror the opening comments
• These closing and opening comments could be an inspirational quote
• The MC should thank the organizer of the event afterwards, in writing
• Know that the MC can make or break any program
• Remember that being an MC is an honor, because of the responsibility

The author gives permission to reproduce this article; disseminate it; publish it in print, electronic form and on a website as long as it is not edited and carries the following contact information:
http://www.jeanjacques.co.za
http://jeanjacquesfighterpilot.wordpress.com

<<back to the top>>