Here's how you can stay flexible in the Live Events field.

One thing I’ve found helpful is to have a plan, ahead of time, that has diverse directions of execution. For me, it’s a helpful mind exercise, as well. A bit like being on a road trip where you have different roads lined up in case there are any detours. This keeps the elasticity of open mindedness centered and helps if detours are actually necessary.

An example I’ve seen of this is at a recent international conference where we had translating services, some of the audio systems were newer but since we had planned ahead with LIVE interpreters ready to jump in, when there were hiccups in the other audio system, they were already on-site and able to jump in. This kept things running smoothly and helped everyone to understand, in their first language, the conference discussions.

Flexibility in live events is crucial, given the dynamic nature of the industry. Being prepared for last-minute changes and having contingency plans in place can help navigate unexpected challenges. Open communication with team members and stakeholders ensures everyone can adapt quickly and effectively.

Something I like to do before a conference is to map out the possibilities for connection prior to the event. By knowing something about the people I might encounter, I feel more open to conversation and connection. Once that occurs, even speaking with those that I hadn’t planned to meet, becomes easier. I also like to list the people I would like to encounter but perhaps didn’t have time to encounter so that I can do some post event follow up and hear their reflections on the experience.

I fully agree with this statement because sometimes, you never know where a new skill or even familiarity with a new skill, can come in handy. At a conference where new technology was being used but with a few hiccups, by trying to help them with it, I felt more at ease with that technology the next time I saw it being used at an event. It isn’t my area of expertise, but understanding how it functions helps at any event.

This is a practice I employ through my use of journaling. I like having “an event journal” which is specific to each space I’m attending so that it’s easy to go back and brush up on what I experienced, learned and reflected upon at the time. It’s also a nice way to document the journey. I like using bright colors for those tools so they stand out in a particular way when I’m back at my office and I’m looking for event details. Just like events brighten up the regular office day to day schedule, those bright journaling reflections brighten up my offices.