Although content should be king at any meeting, the packaging of it can help considerably to the overall success of the program. The MC role plays an important part in the packaging of the event. When considering the role of MC it is advisable to have had prior experience of speaking in public. The skills and techniques developed in public speaking are the same as those needed to be a successful MC.

An excellent method to prepare you for the role of MC is to observe other skilful MCs and speakers. Study what they do and how they do to. Use these observations as a model for your role.

The 7 tips to be successful in the master of ceremonies role are:-

To Prepare Thoroughly

Meet with the organizers of the meeting to understand the purpose of the meeting and discuss the detailed plan of the day. Uncover as much as you can about the speakers and if possible talk to them about their background and their speech. Also speak to others that will play a role in the day to build up a positive relationship with them.

To Arrive Early

Arrive early on the day to check with other participants that all requirements are in place. If not, take action to correct any problems. Incorporate any last minute changes into your plan. Also check out the facilities, e.g. where are the bathrooms, are the microphones and the visual equipment working? Discuss with the other participants including the speakers the plan for the day.

To Have a Detailed Agenda

Ensure you keep to a detailed timetable as closely as possible. Thorough preparation and discussing the day with the participants will make this much easier. The audience and speakers appreciate an efficiently run event.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected Happening

In spite of all the planning and preparation the meeting can get off track. Although you cannot plan precisely for the unexpected event, you can have some contingencies in place. An efficient MC will have a supply of contemporary stories and anecdotes that can be used to cover up any confusion arising from the unforeseen circumstances.

Opening the Meeting

Prepare your opening based on the information you gathered when speaking to the organizers and speakers. The opening needs only to be brief and cover the essentials such as acknowledging any special guests, introducing yourself, and the reason for the meeting.

Introducing the Speakers

When you introduce the speakers keep it brief. Cover their name, a brief biography and the topic of their speech. After their speech: - thank the speaker and give a quick outline of the speech - one or two lines is all that is needed.

Closing the Day

Thank all the speakers and all who attended. If appropriate make a special thanks to the organisers and any individuals who especially contributed to the success of the day. Include a summary of the day and include any highlights of the meeting.

The role of the master of ceremonies is very important to the success of a meeting or event. By observing successful "MCs" and applying your observations together with the above tips you soon become skilled in the role.