“A master of ceremonies, or MC (emcee), is the host of an official public or private staged event or other performance. The MC usually presents performers, speaks to the audience, and generally keeps the event moving” – Wikipedia
A good Master of Ceremonies, with the knowledge, skill, and ability to manage proceedings, can turn an ‘average’ event into something that is seen by those attending as an amazing delight, and leave them with memories they will recall with affection for years to come. How many of you have ever dreamt of being an MC on the stage? Do you fully know how to be a great MC?
Here are some tips for you:
- Research the event: The more information you have about the event, the more relaxed you will be and prepared for eventualities.
Are you thinking of taking part in Front The Most? So let’s find out : Is this an annual event? If so, what did last year’s MC do?
You may find that you don’t need to use this information specifically in your role, but the more knowledge you have, the more prepared you will be.
- Dealing with trouble: What if you slip on words? What if you forget your script? What if you misintroduce the judgers or mispronounce his name? What if you suddenly have your dress torn out? What if?….
You will wish you were not there in such ridiculous situations. However, if you are faced, don’t go panic! Always wear a smile to wind it away, then correct yourself as smartly and stealthily as possible, probably by improvising. Remember, no one knows unless you reveal it yourself. Try not to make audience notice of your mistakes.
- Have a backup plan: Conferences and programs are dynamic, flowing events. Not everything goes to plan and the professional MC has an option up his sleeve to cover any late or no-show speakers that is in-keeping with the theme and feel of the conference or event.
- Use appropriate humour: That doesn’t mean playing to the lowest common denominator. Every audience deserves your respect and ability to entertain without resorting to off-color material. If in doubt, choose something non-offensive. HANDY HINT – jokes where the audience don’t see the punch-line coming are the most effective.
On facing a serious and difficult situation, there is still room for humor. Imagine what joke you would tell audience when you talk about KFC? Maybe it’s finger- licking good?
- Enjoy every minute : Although the MC’s aim should be to be almost transparent to the audience, you really are the person making the difference at the front of the room, the one who will be the lynch-pin, the captain of the ship and getting it right as a professional MC will pay huge dividends for your future.
It’s important for all MC to understand this: being an MC is not about you, it’s about the event. Being the MC is not about showcasing your own talents, but about running the event smoothly. The attendees should be remarking “what a great event” and not “what a great MC”. Often they will not even know how hard your worked in the preparation and planning, in the on the spot adjustments and tweaking to make things fabulous. Often, you will even not get thanked or acknowledged for the contribution you made.
You will know yourself after any event how well you did. If things didn’t go as planned, you will know what you have to do is to improve and prepare for the next time. If things did go well, you will be storing the information away to use it again.
Take every opportunity to learn from other professionals around you and you’ll soon find yourself in demand. May all your events go smooth!
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Reference:
- “MC / Master of Ceremony Ideas & Tips” – http://www.scribd.com/
- “7 Tips For The Master Of Ceremonies” – http://www.articlesnatch.com/
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Ha Ngoc Thu Hien
PR department
