Imagine this: you’ve organised an event. The stage is set, the audience is buzzing, the lights are about to dim, and then, disaster. A mic cuts out, the lighting malfunctions, or the video feed stutters just as the keynote speaker takes the stage. It’s the kind of worst-case scenario that every event manager dreads. But with the right live event technician on your team, those nightmare moments never materialise.
It’s high-stakes in today’s high-tech event landscape, and a skilled live event technician isn’t just nice to have… they are your safety net, your problem solver and, often, your unsung hero. Whether it’s a global conference or an intimate live music performance, these technicians are responsible for ensuring that everything runs like clockwork, from sound systems to lighting rigs. And when it doesn’t? They’re the ones fixing it before the audience even notices.
If you’re in charge of hiring for live events, you know the impact a great technician can have on the overall success of an event. In this blog, we’ll break down the top five essential skills that every exceptional live event technician should possess – and why hiring an apprentice may be your smartest move yet.
Live Event Technicians: a crucial role
When it comes to live event success, the perfect solution is to employ a Level 3 Creative Industries Production Technician apprentice (on the Live Event Technician or Creative Venue Technician pathway). These budding professionals are trained specifically to handle the dynamic world of live event production, blending technical skills with hands-on experience from day one.
Apprentices aren’t just learning the theory behind sound desks, lighting rigs or video walls – they’re mastering it in real-world environments. As part of their apprenticeship, they get in-depth exposure to everything from setting up live stages and managing AV systems to running rehearsals and live shows. This ensures that by the time they complete the programme, they’re more than competent to handle the demands of any event, no matter how large or complex.
Hiring an apprentice means you’re gaining someone trained on the most up-to-date industry standards, while also bringing fresh energy and innovation to the table. Your apprentice will learn under pressure and thrive in it – exactly the type of person you need when the unexpected happens during a live event.
Event Technician Skills
Candidates with a natural curiosity for technology, a passion for the entertainment industry, and strong problem-solving skills are exactly what you need. Oh, and not forgetting arguably one of the most important traits in an events professional, being able to keep a cool head under pressure!
But, don’t just focus on technical potential, consider communication abilities and teamwork mindset. A great live event apprentice isn’t just technically savvy; they’re adaptable, proactive, and ready to roll with the punches when things don’t go as planned.
Here’s 5 skills to look out for when hiring:
1) Problem solving under pressure
It goes without saying that live events come with unexpected challenges. To name a few: a speaker runs late, a mic cuts out, or the lighting fails. One of the most suited ways of measuring problem-solving skills in an interview is to ask scenario-based questions such as:
- Can you share an experience where you worked on a challenging project?
- Describe a situation where you had to quickly adjust to unexpected changes.
Describe a situation where you faced a problem and how you solved it.
2) Strong communication
Whether it’s coordinating with stage managers, performers, or other fellow technicians, a great apprentice needs to relay information effectively to avoid any missteps during the event. In difficult situations, being able to clearly explain a problem or solution can prevent costly delays or mistakes. To assess a candidate’s communication skills, consider setting them a task that allows them to demonstrate how they convey information under pressure. Additionally, be mindful of candidates with additional learning needs; provide adjustments as necessary to create an inclusive environment. This could include offering alternative formats for tasks or allowing extra time for responses. By creating an accessible interview process, you can ensure that all candidates have the opportunity to showcase their skills fairly.
3) A positive approach to teamwork
What’s communication without teamwork? Event apprentices rarely work in isolation, therefore your apprentice needs to integrate well with your team. They’ll need to work harmoniously with diverse groups and show genuine enthusiasm for teamwork. When you first speak to a candidate, whether it’s a telephone interview, face-to-face, or even online, you should be able to gauge their approach to team working. Ask whether they have worked as part of a team before, whether it’s in a sports activity, educational setting, or previous job role. How did they work with their team to solve a problem? These are all questions that will allow a candidate to show off their teamwork skills.
4) A passion for events
What drew the candidate to the apprenticeship role in the first place? Perhaps they enjoy attending live events and have always been interested in the setup behind them? Or maybe they thrive working in fast-paced environments? It’s imperative that your apprentice has a real interest in the industry in order to succeed and create memorable, positive experiences.
5) Attention to detail
An event brings many small details together to create something truly impressive. And from an apprentice’s point of view that’s cool, right? But let’s not forget the most crucial aspect of any event – health and safety. One wrong move could put someone in serious danger, or even the apprentice themselves. Dealing with electrics and other equipment, and working from heights means that an apprentice will need exceptional attention to detail. A combination of a task and appropriate questioning will enable you to see whether the candidate is able to pay good attention to detail.
Young event technicians
Although apprenticeships are typically associated with younger people, they’re open to people of all ages. In 2022/23, 48% of apprentices were aged 25 and over.
Whether you hire a young apprentice fresh out of school or someone making a career change, you’re bringing someone on board with an appetite for learning and a drive to master the live event production space.
Hiring a live event apprentice
Opting for an apprentice is more than just a budget-friendly solution. It’s a strategic move for long-term growth. Apprenticeships offer a two-fold benefit: you’re providing someone with invaluable training, and in return, they’re giving you the latest industry knowledge, fresh energy, and a commitment to learning the ropes of your unique business. With government incentives available, such as the apprenticeship levy, hiring apprentices becomes an even smarter choice for your budget.
Speaking of budget, 53% of event professionals say decreasing budgets are their biggest challenge, therefore an apprentice is a much lower overhead cost than a freelance events worker or an experienced event technician, yielding a salary of around £32,599.
Alarmingly, 20% of event professionals are most concerned about burnout. Employing an apprentice can alleviate stress and reduce the risk of burnout by improving team capacity, creating a healthier work environment.
By investing in an apprentice live event technician, you’re not only filling an immediate role, you’re building a future in-house expert, someone who can grow into a permanent, highly skilled position within your team.
Enquire about hiring a live event apprentice.
- Live Event Technicians: Top 5 Skills to Look Out for When Hiring - October 21, 2024
- 8 Reasons Your Venue Can Benefit from an Apprentice Technician - September 30, 2024
- How to use your apprenticeship levy effectively - September 16, 2024