Want to be an MC for your next corporate event Here are 8 steps

As the Master of Ceremonies (MC) at an event, you have a vital responsibility to fulfill. Your duty includes managing the timing and sequence of events to ensure that the program runs smoothly. Without an MC, the event would lack structure, flow, and entertainment.

Organizing an event can be an intimidating task. While some individuals are comfortable in the spotlight and seem to be born for the role, others may feel nervous, especially if it is their first time.

However, with a little preparation, you can make a significant difference. Here are some expert suggestions to assist you in hosting your next event and to help you relish the excitement to the fullest.

1. Prepare an introduction

Crafting a captivating story to draw your audience in is a great way to launch yourself as an MC. Introduce yourself, have your narrative prepared by doing some research on the brand or company that you are representing, have a relaxed mindset and stay focused on the task at hand. You can also prepare by familiarizing yourself with the run sheet as this carries the structure and content of the event.

2. Stay humble

As an MC, you are there to keep things moving and to make sure that the speakers, guests and hosts are well informed and celebrated. Being the MC does mean you take center stage, however always remember to stay humble and keep the focus on the room and the run-sheet.

3. Set the tone for the event

A confident energy with positive reinforcement throughout your speech will set the tone. Find the happy medium between a serious, professional approach and a high-energy vibe.

4. Maintain time-frames

An award-winner making a speech may go on too long or swerve off topic, which will hijack the momentum of your event. Speakers are well briefed about their time on stage and should know their time limit. An MC needs to stay close to the lectern or microphone, keep time and ensure people’s presentations are brief and to the allocated time.

5. The transition between speakers

Giving a short recap of the previous speech and presentation or complimenting the speaker is a clever way to move from one presentation to the next. Then, set up the next speaker with a short introduction which is usually in the run-sheet.

6. Prepare to improvise

Not everything goes to plan, so be prepared for unforeseen circumstances, such as a speaker not showing up or an incident in the audience. The key is to stick as closely as possible to the agenda and keep things moving forward - no matter what happens.

7. Microphone etiquette

It’s important to hold the microphone about five centimeters from your mouth. Having the microphone too close will muffle everything but holding it too far away will thin your words out. Your audio technician will control the sound levels, but there’s only so much they can do if you're not handling the microphone properly.

8. Have a closing speech prepared

Just like the opening narrative, you need to tie your MC-ing together with a closing story or call to action at the end. Recap the highlights of the evening and challenge the audience for feedback. A closing statement is a great way to remind people how good your event was!

When you practice your opening and closing speeches, imagine yourself sitting in the audience listening to what was just said. If it’s not great, refine your content until you have something that you love and that will keep the audience hanging on your every word.

If you’re holding a corporate event and need a fabulous MC to host it, contact us today on info@mena-speakers.com and let us recommend the right MC for your next conference, AGM, Meeting and event.