Debriefing

At strategic points during the day, at the end of each day and certainly at the end of the event, you should have debriefing sessions. Depending on the number of staff involved, this should either be with the whole staff, or with team leaders who have previously debriefed their teams.

Although you have debriefed team leaders, always hold a follow-up session for anyone who feels they have something important to say – you never stop learning yourself! Though frequently there is little to say at a debrief, it is possible that some critical oversight may be brought to the attention of the event manager or team leader that could save the day, or make tomorrow go a lot better.

It is infinitely better to have a fruitless debrief, than not to hold one and miss something important. A debrief session also reinforces the teams’ perception of your need and respect for the team leaders and staff. Don’t be shy about standing up and thanking them all during a debrief, and if a member of staff or team leader has come up with a cunning plan to resolve a major problem, sing their praises as well. It motivates that person and also motivates others to look at their role or sector and gives them the encouragement to make their own suggestions