The show behind the show: 5 lessons for managing speakers and talent at events

Backstage at an event is experiential inception. From the green room to the press room, it's a custom concierge experience with the weight of the world on its shoulders. While event producers power walk through industrial kitchens and whisper-scream at each other into their walkie talkies, speakers and other talent require a much different experience. They expect a quiet, calm space where they can center themselves before going on stage, conduct business deals and hold private conversations. Occasionally all at the same time! How do you ensure you can provide that for them? Plan the backstage experience for talent, speakers and press as meticulously as you would a public-facing activation. The XP Land team offers five of the most important lessons to impart to your teams while running the "show behind the show." 1)  Plan the back-of-house experience with the same care as front-of-house. Most events are planned with the attendees in mind. You know, the people who have paid to be there, whether that be with their money or just their time. We hold them on the highest pedestal, but shouldn’t speakers and talent be given the same love? Make working with your team — from the first email...