How COVID-19 Shaped Event Staffing in 2023

The 2023 event staffing landscape has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. The way events are organised and carried out, as well as the kinds of employees required to make them successful and secure, have all been drastically changed by the pandemic. The effects of COVID-19 on event staffing in 2023 will be examined in this article, including adjustments to staffing needs, new safety procedures, and the usage of technology.

Introduction

Due to health and safety concerns, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the events industry, causing numerous events to be cancelled or postponed. But as the earth starts to heal, things are starting to happen again. To protect the safety of both workers and attendees in this new reality, event staffing has had to adjust to new requirements and protocols.

Changes to Staffing Requirements

One of the most significant changes to event staffing in 2023 has been the need for additional personnel to manage new safety protocols. For example, many events now require dedicated staff to manage social distancing and to enforce mask-wearing policies. Additionally, many events require staff to undergo COVID-19 testing or proof of vaccination, which has added an extra layer of complexity to staffing requirements.

New Safety Protocols

In addition to altering the amount of employees needed, COVID-19 has also prompted the creation of new event safety procedures. Increased hygienic practices, such as routine surface and equipment cleansing, as well as the usage of personal protective equipment (PPE) by staff and visitors are all part of these protocols. In order to ensure that they are able to perform their responsibilities safely and efficiently, event workers are now expected to receive training in these guidelines.

Technology

COVID-19 has also accelerated the adoption of technology in the events industry, with many events now incorporating virtual components or hybrid models. This has led to the need for staff who are skilled in the use of technology and able to manage virtual platforms and live streams. Additionally, technology has been used to enhance safety protocols, with the use of contactless check-in systems and digital health screenings becoming more common.

Staffing Challenges

Even though the events sector is gradually recovering from the epidemic, event staffing will still face several difficulties in 2023. Due to the huge layoffs and furloughs that took place during the epidemic, one of the biggest issues is the lack of experienced workers. In addition, many event employees are reluctant to go back to work out of fear for their own wellbeing and security.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on event staffing in 2023, with changes to staffing requirements, new safety protocols, and the use of technology all playing a role. While the industry is slowly recovering, there are still challenges to be overcome, including staffing shortages and concerns about health and safety. By adapting to these challenges and implementing new protocols and technologies, the events & promotional staffing industry can continue to thrive in a post-pandemic world.