Tips for planning Events

To better help integrate the EC group into our idea of what we strive for. I've compiled a list of tips for planning events. In all the years I've been a linkshell leader one of the most important things I have learned is.. As a leader you need to be flexible. There is alot of emotion and tension you need to set aside and stand above to really Lead.

As Organizers of an event you are not just there to set up the gathering place and time. You must also be the cheerleader. People are naturally lazy. More so us video game geeks.. Hey, I was calling myself one too so STFU... I highly suggest coming into the LS as early before the event as you possibly can and start conversations about the upcoming event. If you the event leader is not excited about their own event why should they be?

With events that require more then 1 full pt I suggest atleast 1 hour before the event be waiting at the gathering spot (or atleast same zone) ready and bringing attention to the upcoming event. People will draw to you.. That hour to 30 minutes before an event can get you some members to join who hadn't planned on joining but now don't want to miss out on something that sounds like alot more fun. This is why I say Leaders need between 30min to 1hr before an event dedicated strictly to the event. (this time is dependant on the type of event.. some event require more discussion)

Not all of our events seem to have a real in game purpose.. It doesn't get us cool gear or more gils. But we do have alot of fun. These silly events are what we need to use to train our members about good event behaviour. We need to reward members who show up 15 minutes prior to these fun events by starting the fun. In many instances in the past those people who showed up early were punished and had to wait for the other members to show up late. As Gunner says he see's showing up 15 minutes prior to an event as being on time for a regular member.

Sometimes when leading an event they may have to defer to someone who has more experience with whatever event is planned or has a suggestion for better chance of success. Everyone is different and there are many points of view. Many events have been tested numerous times and most times a certain combination of jobs is far superior than a hodge-podge. If certain jobs are unavailable with the people involved, then you make due and work with what you have. If someone is trying to organize people and asking them what jobs they have and requesting they come as a certain job, then more power to them. however, with such knowledge as that, they should join the EC group ... but they may not desire to. There might be some stepping on toes, but if it makes the difference between success and failure then grab a bag of ice for those toes later and let them be tromped on now. Then again there wouldn't members thinking they need to set up the party if they knew in advance the job they are expected to be.

This is why for large events it is better to know who will be what job before the day of the event. That way there is less confusion and scramble for gear. Things run smoother when people know what is expected of them in advance.

If someone has a complaint or suggestion during the event about strategy it needs to be listened to. If a tank doesn't like the way things are going.. Something needs to change. They are the one being hit and most likely first to die if it does go badly. It is their exp.. they have a right to speak up and you have a duty to listen. Listening to your pt members suggestions will also earn you their respect as a leader too. To lead doesn't just require giving orders.. it takes alot more listening. Keep in mind if members are unhappy.. events won't run well.

To help our less pc friendly members. I would like to suggest when you post an event to add the gathering date to the body of the message. Not all our members are very good at checking the calendar, but do check the forum.