It is essential that a good corporate host should be well prepared and have researched the rationale behind the purpose of the occasion well in advance. 35 years as a Director of Sport in a leading North West school has taught me that no stone should be left unturned where preparation and planning is concerned: doing one’s ‘homework’ is vital.

 

The key to a successful event is the MC knowing your role at the event, understanding the schedule, researching the speakers, being familiar with the speech content and having a connection and rapport with the audience.

 

At your function, the host should keep the event moving, the speakers relaxed, the discussion interesting and the audience involved. I aim to relax and engage with organisers, connect with the corporate guests and put speakers and any support crew at ease.

 

As match day corporate host in hospitality lounges at Blackburn Rovers Football Club when operating simultaneously with audiences in excess of 220 in each, forward planning is essential. The ability to work with others and adapt to ever changing circumstances is fundamental to the role and this is what you can expect at your corporate function. As a result, this ensures guests are always well informed and any corporate event speakers will stick to time.