You’re in charge of event production. How do you keep your team motivated?

Take this a step further. Don't just set goals and expectations, gamify those goals! Work with your team to pick metrics and goals, then pick an incentive. This will increase their desire to reach those goals. Maybe offer the team extra time off after a big event or offer a team building day for local teams. Whatever you choose, make sure you're picking an incentive that resonates with your team.

As an event production leader, keeping your team motivated is crucial for ensuring successful events and a positive work environment. Here are some key strategies you can implement: **Foster a culture of clear communication and expectations:** * **Set SMART goals:** Clearly define **S**pecific, **M**easurable, **A**ttainable, **R**elevant, and **T**ime-bound goals for each event project. Communicate these goals effectively to your team, ensuring everyone understands their roles, responsibilities, and the event's overall objectives.

It is often overlooked, yet providing positive feedback and recognition to your production team is very important. Far too many times in this industry, all anyone hears about is what they did wrong or didn't go well. All too often, I hear production professionals say, "No news is good news," or "If they aren't talking to me, it means I'm doing my job well." Although I understand the sentiment behind these phrases, it's an unfortunate reality. Take time to let your team know they are doing things right, they are killing it, and that both you and the client recognize and appreciate their efforts and professionalism. Don't just let it go unsaid.

Empower and recognize your team: Delegate tasks effectively: Delegate tasks based on individual strengths and skillsets, allowing team members to take ownership and contribute their expertise. Provide growth opportunities: Encourage continuous learning and professional development by offering training sessions, workshops, or opportunities to participate in new projects that challenge their skills and expand their knowledge. Recognize and appreciate achievements: Celebrate individual and team accomplishments, big or small. Offer genuine praise, public recognition, or even small rewards to acknowledge their hard work and highlight their contributions.

Create a positive and supportive work environment: Promote teamwork and collaboration: Encourage open communication and collaboration among team members. Foster a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and seeking help when needed. Value work-life balance: Acknowledge the demanding nature of event production and emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Encourage breaks, flexible schedules when possible, and consider offering mental health resources or wellness programs. Show appreciation for your team: Beyond individual achievements, express your overall appreciation for your team's dedication and hard work.

Your team is the backbone of any successful event. They not only need to execute tasks at a high level, but they also need to want to. To achieve this, it's crucial to understand their needs in a professional and respectful manner. If you notice a department falling behind or showing signs of stress, reach out to the department head and ask how you can assist instead of constantly asking for updates or making derogatory remarks. And if meals are provided, make sure they are not only edible but also something that might invoke a positive reaction. It's also important to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies, including those who are vegan, to show that you value your team's needs. Positive reinforcement with a direct demeanor.

First, Simply put give your fellow staff ownership of what they need to do as part of the greater whole. If someone see that what they do has an impact on the end product normally they will take a great pride/ attention to get it done well. Second, Care for your crew: food, drinks, shade, rest, etc. I loved Chris’s thought on know your diet / medical needs of your crew. Third, “Please and Thank You” for both your crew and touring staff. And as always ask before taking. Lastly, When problems happen work the problem one step at a time as a team. You never know who will have the great idea to start solving the problem.