Volunteering at an event, whether it is sporting, cultural, or festive, is a unique experience that combines commitment, meeting new people, and learning. There are many ways to become a volunteer for an event! For example, some event organisations use an online platform like WeezCrew to share a sign-up form, allowing you to apply.
If you want to be part of the adventure while contributing to the success of an event, volunteering is the ideal solution. In this article, we explain everything about the unique experience of volunteering at an event!
Summary
1. Why volunteer at an event?
There are many reasons to get involved as a volunteer at an event. Whether you’re looking for an enriching experience or a way to learn new skills, here are some reasons why you should consider volunteering.
Learn and develop new skills
Every event is an opportunity to learn. From managing visitor flows to handling logistical tasks, you’ll have the chance to develop many new skills. Taking part in organising a large event, particularly in the sports or cultural sectors, is an excellent way to strengthen your expertise. Additionally, many events, associations, and organisations are always on the lookout for volunteers through digital tools like WeezCrew or with dedicated pages on their websites or social media.
Experience something unique
Taking part in organising a large-scale event is a unique opportunity to see behind the scenes. You’ll witness the complex logistics that go into every detail, and gain a better understanding of the challenges organisers face.
It’s also a fantastic way to experience memorable moments, be at the heart of the action, and connect with a team that creates unforgettable experiences for attendees. As a volunteer, you’ll have an exclusive view of the behind-the-scenes action, often inaccessible to spectators, and will live an extraordinary human adventure.
Meet new people
Volunteering is also a great opportunity to meet interesting people from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re working with other volunteers, organisers, or service providers, you’ll immerse yourself in a rich and diverse network.
These connections don’t just stop at the event itself: the network you build could prove invaluable for your future. Working together in often intense conditions forges strong bonds and creates lasting friendships. Moreover, this network can be crucial for your future job applications.
2. The key role of volunteers
Volunteers play a central role in ensuring the smooth running of an event. Their presence on the ground guarantees a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. The tasks assigned to them are varied and cover a wide range of areas:
Welcoming and guiding the public
Welcoming visitors is one of the first tasks for volunteers. At entrances, at stands, or around installations, they create the first impression of the event. They are there to guide participants, answer their questions, and ensure everyone finds their way, contributing to a positive experience from the moment they arrive.
Managing visitor flow
Large events can generate large numbers of people to move around. Volunteers are responsible for managing visitor flow, including controlling queues, optimising access, and handling exits. Their role is crucial for ensuring the safety of participants and preventing overcrowding.
With tools like WeezCrew, organisers can send personalised SMS updates to volunteers assigned to specific tasks, helping them perform their duties efficiently and safely.
Supporting organising teams
Volunteers don’t just welcome visitors: they also provide support to the organising teams. This could involve a wide range of tasks, from technical assistance to setting up infrastructure, managing emergencies, or handling waste. Their flexibility and ability to adapt to various types of tasks make them invaluable assets for organisers.
3. The benefits of volunteering at events
Volunteering at an event offers many benefits, beyond the simple satisfaction of contributing to a project. It’s an approach that allows you to get actively involved in the organisation while creating strong connections with other team members and participants. Whether in a charitable, cultural, or sporting setting, volunteering is a key part of event development in the UK and beyond.
But volunteering also comes with a range of benefits. As mentioned earlier, in addition to being fully immersed in the heart of the event, this experience gives you access to unique opportunities. Organisers make sure to recognise the contributions of volunteers with various exclusive benefits, making their involvement even more rewarding…
Privileged access
Volunteers often have the opportunity to access restricted areas and receive exclusive entry to certain parts of the event. This privileged status allows you to experience the event from a different perspective, and sometimes even meet important personalities or special guests.
Exclusive benefits
Alongside privileged access, volunteers can enjoy free meals, clothing or limited-edition merchandise, and even souvenirs from the event. These perks are often a great way to enhance the experience while showing organisers’ appreciation for their hard work. Often, after your shift, you can fully enjoy the event, whether it’s attending activities, concerts, or matches, depending on the event type. These benefits are usually listed in the volunteer recruitment article on the event’s website.
However, remember that these benefits are not guaranteed and should not be your only reason for volunteering!
4. Using a volunteer management platform
Many platforms, such as WeezCrew, make life easier for volunteers when the organisation chooses to use them.
With just a few clicks, you can view available tasks, sign up, and receive all the necessary information, such as schedules, meeting points, and organisers’ expectations.
WeezCrew also simplifies task and schedule tracking, allowing for better organisation and communication. This ensures you can plan your participation with peace of mind, maximising your chances of successfully completing your tasks and meeting the event’s objectives.
“Thanks to WeezCrew, we have a 90% satisfaction rate among our 6,000 volunteers. Three-quarters of them return each year.” – Colas Laury, Volunteer Manager – EXAEQUO
5. The qualities required to be a good volunteer
Certain qualities are essential to being an effective and valued volunteer, especially when contributing to a large-scale event. Beyond the desire to get involved, a good volunteer must demonstrate responsiveness, adaptability, and a strong ability to work as part of a team. Whether during volunteer recruitment or at the heart of the event, certain qualities stand out as key to ensuring everything runs smoothly.
A service-oriented attitude, team spirit, and strong motivation are just some of the core values that are crucial for meeting the needs of organisers, participants, and fellow volunteers.
Service orientation
Volunteering is first and foremost about being attentive to others and wanting to help them. Whether it’s guiding a spectator or solving an unexpected problem, your responsiveness and ability to anticipate needs are vital. Volunteer recruitment seeks people who are ready to give their time with energy and passion for the event.
Team spirit
Volunteers often work as part of a team and need to collaborate closely to ensure the event runs smoothly. Team spirit is therefore essential for good coordination. You need to adapt to different working styles and be willing to lend a hand to your teammates when necessary.
Motivation and energy
The days can sometimes be long, conditions challenging, and unexpected issues frequent. A good volunteer knows how to maintain their enthusiasm and energy throughout the event. The desire to contribute to the event’s success and give your best is the driving force behind every volunteer mission. This motivation is a key factor in recruiting volunteers for large-scale events.
Volunteering at an event is not just a supportive role; it’s a true human experience, a way to contribute to a common cause, and a chance to take part in unique events.
Thanks to volunteer recruitment tools like WeezCrew and tailored platforms, it’s easier than ever to get involved and make a difference at events of all sizes. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, meet new people, and live unforgettable moments. So, if you have energy to share, don’t hesitate to get involved and live this rewarding adventure!
