With the busy season upon us, we find great deals of our associates are asking us how we keep up with events that demand a large number of staff. While we are lucky to have amazing and talented staffers on our team, we only have so many of them!
Our Solution: Freelancers or Volunteers.
We recommend this solution to not only those planners who need additional help, but to those who are looking to learn a little more about the industry. What better way to learn about catering an event than to be “behind the scenes”, helping the process go from start to finish? Today, we’d like to focus on some tips for those looking for help and those looking to help out.
When meeting/interviewing people for the first time, always be as professional as possible, and expect the same in return. Always ask for a resume and references, but trust your judgment of the person in front of you as well. Would you really want this person representing your company, even if only for a few hours? Conversely, does this look like a company that would treat you fairly?
As the interviewee, you should come prepared with a list of questions to help you determine if this role is the right fit for you. You should also come ready to list past experiences that showcase the assets that would be desirable to the company you are interviewing with. Coming in 1st place in the State Science Fair in the 10th grade is certainly an accomplishment, but probably not relevant to a caterer who has to staff a party for 400 guests.
As the interviewer, if red flags arise based on inconsistency, lack of knowledge, or inappropriate questions or behavior, take it as a sign that this is someone you do not want to hire. Ideally, potential freelancers should present their best to you, and if that is not what you are seeing (or even worse, if that is the best he or she may have to offer) then this is someone you would not want to hire to represent you.
Once you have build up a database of strong freelancers, create your pecking order of those who work hardest, are prompt, and take direction well. Also, feel free to ask people for referrals, as freelancers with great work ethic often know others with great work ethic.











