Fatigue at Events and 4 Tips on How to Beat It

November 12, 2016

Katie Price

Katie Price from RAL Display, a market leader in Display Marketing, has years of experience working with events managers. 

Steady on Superman, fatigue at events is real, and we’ve all had it!

Events and exhibitions can last all day or all night and your business or client requires you to be on your feet and on your best at all times. It’s true, this can be exhausting and dragging yourself through the day, with a constant smile on your face is a real challenge. Yet the best event organisers and coordinators somehow manage it, so what’s their secret?

Here’s some top tips for keeping those eyes open at your next event …

Get to know your venue

Yes, we know it sounds obvious but getting to know every nook and cranny of your venue is vital for saving time and energy. You don’t need a detailed blueprint imbedded in your memory, just the important bits. Identify where the toilets and entrances and exits are. If it’s a large venue with lots going on, make a note of where your team members are or use radios to keep in touch. Knowing the venue like the back of your hand means you can avoid running around all day and concentrate on the more important and fun aspects of your event.

Pick a team you can rely on

It’s not breaking news…You can’t always run an event on your own. However, picking a team that’s on the same wave length with members you know you can count on, is a great way to save yourself all important energy. A reliable team ensures you can rotate shifts at certain locations, take it in turn to man your exhibition or stand and take regular breaks.  If you assemble a well briefed and professional team, you can feel confident the event is running smoothly even when you’re not around.

Keep refuelling

“I haven’t got time to eat”, sound familiar? The short answer is…Yes you have. If you’re not taking on food and drink throughout the day, you’ll soon find fatigue kicking in. Likewise, If you only fill up on sugary snacks, energy drinks and coffee you might experience a dreaded caffeine or sugar crash.

Be sure to start the day with a good breakfast; try something on the healthy side that slowly releases energy all day. Eat small amounts throughout the day when you can and stay hydrated. Avoid a large heavy lunch that might make you sleepy though. Staying refuelled combats fatigue and ensures you’re sharp and raring to go.

Stay on the move

If it’s a busy event, then this won’t be an issue obviously. However, it’s amazing how tired you can get if you’re sitting behind a stand or standing in the same spot all day, so keep on the move as much as possible. Even if you have seat behind a stand, try to resist the temptation to use it. Stay on your feet, walk around and talk to everyone – you’ll find your energy creates a great impression too!

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.