10 Tips for Standing Out in Event Staffing
Whether you're just starting or want to level up, these proven tips will help you get booked more often and earn higher rates.
Event staffing is one of the most rewarding forms of flexible work. You get to be part of incredible experiences -- from corporate galas to music festivals -- while earning competitive rates. But with more people joining the industry, how do you make sure you're the one getting rebooked? Here are 10 tips from the top-rated professionals on ProStaff.
Master the Brief
Before every event, read the brief thoroughly. Understand the brand, the target audience, the schedule, and exactly what's expected of you. Event managers notice when you arrive already knowing the plan.
Arrive Early, Every Time
This is non-negotiable. Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before your call time. Traffic, parking, and finding the right entrance always take longer than you think. Being early also gives you time to check in calmly and prepare mentally.
Dress Appropriately
When a uniform isn't provided, default to smart-casual in dark colours unless told otherwise. Clean shoes, ironed clothes, and neat grooming are baseline expectations. Keep a set of all-black event clothes ready to go at all times.
Be Proactive, Not Passive
Don't wait to be told what to do. If you see something that needs handling -- a spill, an empty tray, a confused guest -- handle it. The best event staff anticipate needs before they become problems.
Stay Off Your Phone
Nothing looks more unprofessional than staff scrolling through their phone during an event. Keep it on silent and out of sight. If you need to check something urgent, step away discreetly.
Build Genuine Connections
Chat with event managers, coordinators, and fellow staff between shifts. Remember names. Follow up with a thank-you message after events. These relationships are how you get rebooked and referred to other opportunities.
Maintain Your Energy
Events can be long. Eat well before your shift, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable shoes. Your energy level at hour eight should match hour one. Guests and managers notice when someone maintains their enthusiasm throughout.
Learn Complementary Skills
The more you can do, the more valuable you become. Learn basic bartending, get a food handling certificate, take a first-aid course. Multi-skilled staff command higher rates and get first pick of premium events.
Keep Your Profile Updated
On ProStaff, your profile is your resume. Keep your skills, availability, and photos current. Add new certifications as you earn them. A complete, professional profile gets matched with better opportunities.
Ask for Feedback and Ratings
After every event, request feedback from the event coordinator. Positive ratings on ProStaff compound over time, making you a top-tier candidate that agencies and brands actively seek out. Don't be shy -- professionals who ask for feedback are the ones who grow fastest.
The Bottom Line
Event staffing success comes down to professionalism, consistency, and genuine care for the experience you're creating. The people who treat every gig like it matters -- because it does -- are the ones who build thriving careers in this industry.
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