As a professional event host who has hosted high profile events, seminars and trainings, i have noticed these common mistakes that MCees do, even speakers. I see these mistakes countless times. These tips i outlined in this article will help you avoid them. I used to make these mistakes when i started my career as an event host and i wished someone had taught me these earlier:
1. Lack of Preparation:
There is no event that is too big or small, do not neglect the part of adequately preparing for the event.
Do a thorough research about the event, its agenda, and the audience. Create a script or an outline to guide you.
2. Poor Time Management:
Yeah i know you want to impress the audience and give them a memory they will not forget in a hurry but while doing that avoid going off schedule and causing unnecessary delays.
Stick to the event timeline. Keep track of time and adjust as necessary.
3. Wrong Pronunciations:
This mistake can affect your confidence and ruin your chances of impressing the audience. Avoid mispronouncing names (especially that of the special guests) or terms.
You can request for the list of special guests that your client would want you to acknowledge, practice pronouncing their names in advance and seek guidance if unsure.
4. Overwhelming Jokes:
This is common among comedians who are hired to do the job of a “Master of Ceremony.” I have witnessed this in most events in Nigeria and most times they offend or embarrass certain individuals by overusing humor that may not resonate with them or the audience.
Please Keep humor appropriate and relevant. Don’t overdo it.
5. Going Off-Topic:
It is important to study the theme of the event and build your contents around it. Don’t Lose focus or deviate from the main points. Stay on the topic and avoid unnecessary tangents.
6. Not Engaging the Audience:
Every MC should read the mood of his/her audience, don’t ever make the mistake of failing to connect with them.
Make eye contact, interact, and use inclusive language to engage the audience.
7. Speaking without intonation:
Speaking in a flat or monotonous tone will bore your audience and reduce your chances of making the right impression even before you start. You need to vary your tone, pitch, and pace to keep the audience engaged.
8. Ignoring Technical Issues:
Be prepared for technical glitches and have a backup plan. If you encounter this issue in your event, stay calm and address it promptly.
9. Lack of Rehearsal:
Practice your role as an MC; from your opening speech, in between the program schedule down to your final words.
Rehearse your script and timing to ensure a smooth performance.
10. Disregarding Feedback:
In my early days as an event host, I never thought this part was important. I would quickly exit the event hall the moment I am done like I was running away from something. Don’t be like me. Seeking feedback from organizers and attendees will help you improve your MC skill. Disregarding feedbacks can result to negative reviews and complaints spreading far and wide which can seriously harm your reputation.
Remember, a great MC can enhance the overall event experience, so it’s essential to be well-prepared, engaging, and adaptable to different situations.
