What Does a Volunteer Do at a Conference?

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Conferences and other large events often require an enormous staff to ensure that they run smoothly. In addition to staff, many conferences rely on volunteers to fulfill the tasks that keep the event afloat. There are plenty of exciting marketing event volunteer opportunities for those who are interested, including unique roles at DigiMarCon, the largest digital marketing conference and exhibition series in the nation. But what does a volunteer do at a conference, anyway? Why should you consider volunteering at an event like DigiMarCon? Below, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect to gain out of your time as a volunteer.

What Does a Volunteer Do at a Conference?

The biggest events will generally call for conference volunteers to supplement whatever staff they have in place. But what do volunteers do in a conference

There are many roles a volunteer can fulfill at a conference, and depending on the type of conference, those roles can be quite varied. Later, we’ll look at some specific examples to find out what sort of work volunteers may do at a digital marketing conference. 

However, in general, we can say that a conference volunteer does things like:

  • Checking attendees in and providing them with conference materials
  • Answering questions, offering directions, and giving visitors information about the conference
  • Helping facilitate events and conference sessions
  • Setting up, tearing down, and cleaning up event spaces
  • Taking photos or videos of the event

What Are the Roles of a Volunteer?

Volunteer conference roles are as diverse as the events they serve. Volunteers are key pieces of the conference puzzle, ensuring that the event goes according to plan and is as beneficial as possible for all parties involved. 

Below are some of the common roles a volunteer may be asked to fulfill at a digital marketing event.

  • Exhibition Support Volunteers needed for event exhibitions have the chance to assist presenters in showcasing their exhibits. The volunteer may be asked to help drive attendee traffic to certain exhibits, help presenters in the setup and breakdown of their displays, and assist exhibitors with their activities during the event.
  • Usher – Large conferences and events can be a maze to navigate. Volunteer ushers can help by directing exhibitors and attendees to the proper places and by making sure guests and VIPs are adhering to access restrictions as denoted by their event badges.
  • Set Up or Take Down – Events are always looking for volunteers to help set up and take down seating, stage equipment, exhibits, and other conference hardware. This is a great role for those who wish to help out before and after the event.
  • Floater – The volunteer floater is a role that almost defies description. Floaters are utility players tasked with filling in the gaps by operating in various capacities as needed throughout the event. A floater may assist exhibitors, attendees, ushers, and other volunteers as needed.
  • Videographer – Volunteer videographers play an important role in capturing and publicizing the event. In most cases, they will need to provide their own equipment. This can be a great opportunity for a volunteer to gain valuable videography experience.

What Is an Example of a Volunteer Role Description?

Event volunteer roles and responsibilities may vary greatly from day to day throughout the conference. Roles will also be different from event to event. For example, at a digital marketing conference like DigiMarCon, a common volunteer role is that of a PowerPoint technician.

The PowerPoint technician has an important role, with responsibilities like assisting presenters with their speeches. 

The technician will change the presenter’s slides as needed throughout the speech and must be ready to troubleshoot and iron out any technical glitches that may arise. By matching the slides to the speaker’s pace, the PowerPoint technician ensures that the event is operating according to schedule.

Final Thoughts

Most events and conferences would not be possible without the efforts of dedicated volunteers. Volunteering is a great way to get involved in activities you are interested in, such as digital marketing.

By lending your time and effort to a digital marketing conference, such as DigiMarCon, you can have a front-row seat to all of the action. 

Click here to find a DigiMarCon near you and volunteer for FREE attendance.