Beyond the Bottom Line: Why Quality and Trust Should Drive the Event Industry

Starting off

In a sector that is full of creativity and flexibility, why do we frequently continue to view financial gain as the sole indicator of success? We could reverse the current situation so that each project is driven by the calibre of our work and our partnerships.

How can we turn things around so the industry understands that if you want to deliver outstanding quality, you have to pay people who are supposed to deliver that quality well. Why do we continue to forget that most of our people are one man army experts of versatility?

The Problem with Profit-First Thinking

· Quality Takes a Backseat

How many examples do we have, unfortunately sometimes tragic, of choosing the cheapest option? We don't hear about the little blunders, and the biggest ones will appear all too often on social media. Collapsed roofs, accidents at work, etc. - these are primarily the result of cost-cutting. It is clear that there are projects where the budget is severely limited, but these are not the projects I am concerned with. The worst are projects in which millions are spent on needless things instead of where they would cause real added value.

· Tense Partnership

Heavy focus on costs destroys relationships because it introduces tremendous stress. Then it is impossible to rise to the challenge, to show the professionalism you have in your veins - because the most important thing is money, money, money. If Excel glows green, it will be a successful project. Paranoia. Our industry must rely on trust. We are exhausted and overworked - while being dedicated to our cause for all time. We are downright deadly in love with our passion. If we check it only for the compatible numbers, all the magic is gone, and then we stop enjoying it so much.

· The Cost of Ethics

All too frequently, we hear about folks working 16–20 hours straight for understaffed teams. The show must continue even when equipment breaks down, and schedules fall apart, frequently at the expense of the employees' health. The most unpleasant aspect? External observers cannot see these sacrifices. We cry, sweat, and bleed to ensure the event is a success, but the toll it takes on those who work behind the scenes is rarely acknowledged.

A Look Beyond the Borders

Surprisingly, our western garden is not so bad yet, just a few thousand kilometres away, people can sleep at night in cases because no one has provided them with accommodation. They get 30% of what the customer pays, and they are humiliated and treated in such a way that it makes my blood boil. Not to mention the security measures.?

It is a matter of development and a particular stage at which there are those countries that treat people worse. I recently heard sage words that it must be another generation before this changes.

Let's go on a mission to change the world. Let's bring experience, training and respect where there is none. And let's not fight among ourselves there on rates - price damping will demolish everything.

The Importance of Relationships and Quality

It's a bit like love: you don't love someone for something, you love them in spite of everything. And so it is also in these serious business relationships. If you give your partner respect, trust and sincerity, he will be with you despite other potential inconveniences. He will not abandon you or let you down. Of course, if he is worthy of all your trust - if not... well...

If someone cares more about his employees than about the client, it can be the basis for trust. One of my friends often says: “If I have to choose between a client and my people - I will always choose my people” This also proves the quality of service provided. His people could potentially be some of the best in the industry - precisely because of the care he surrounds them with. Despite how much they annoy him…

Fortunately, we have the privilege to work with many clients and partners that prioritise quality and authentic, collaborative partnerships over reducing expenses. These collaborations serve as a reminder of the importance of valuing honesty and quality since doing so will always provide benefits in the long term. They also know they can count on us even if the budget doesn't spin out. It's not only about the money but also due to the love to the industry.

Ending a Pattern

· Instructing Groups and Individuals

Quality is an investment, not a cost, and clients must realise this. Just like investing in anything made to endure, it may cost more initially, but it pays off in reliability, trust, and long-term success. You might say that it's like buying something built to last.

· Evolving Perspectives in Western Marketplaces

The production-line mentality is the main reason of wage dumping. We need to stop worrying about producing as many events as possible and start making ones that matter if we want to make a difference here. To produce quality and not just quantity.

· Establishing Norms in the Field

Our sector must establish wage, working conditions, and quality expectations criteria as a whole. We can create a sustainable future by working together, talking openly, and sharing our experiences.

Conclusion

We must abandon the profit-first mentality if we want to produce extraordinary events while ensuring the safety and well-being of the individuals who make them happen.?

The film industry has demonstrated that it is possible to come together behind fair norms and procedures. So, what is stopping us? We need to have open discussions, collaborate, and take action to ensure that quality and human values are at the centre of all we do.??

?? What actions can we take to make this change happen? I want to know what you think. Together, we can create a difference that lasts.