Monday Mashups: Love/Hate Relationship with Waiting in Line

To enter the after-parties for the Golden Globes, anyone who didn't attend the ceremony gathers in a parking garage about a mile away. Used for both security and space issues, the process causes the crowd of celebrities, executives, and members of the press to wait upwards of 90 minutes before being shuttled to the parties. Leaving most wondering “there has to be a better way".

While there may not be a better way to deal with such a high-profile crowd, event planners around the country have, in fact, found ways to keep guests comfortable and entertained in the inevitable lines that come with large events, trade shows, and festivals. In addition to using pre-registration and mobile check-in to speed things up, planners are offering interactive entertainment, fun beverage options, and other tricks to keep guests happy. Here are their go-to moves according to BizBash.

1. First things first: Keep everyone informed as much as possible.
Consider using mobile push notifications to let people know if panels are full or create a dedicated social-media handles, such as @NYCClines, to update attendees.

Additionally, for long lines, it’s helpful to have a staff member ‘man’ the end of the line—they can confirm what the line is for, that it’s the end, and any other questions the guests might have. If there are any breaks in the line, that’s another point where you want a staff member—it keeps folks from accidentally cutting the line and it’s another point where guests can get questions answered.

2. Make the actual check-in process as smooth as possible.
Mobile check-in is the way to go. If you have the budget to incorporate the technology, let guests check themselves in—then they can just come in and get their badges and speed the whole process up. Allowing guests to check themselves in can actually boost morale—even in situations where it doesn’t necessarily cut down on the amount of time. If people are engaged, they will be less frustrated. Just like at the airport, if you're not standing in the same position for 10 minutes, you feel like you’re making progress.

3. If there's no way to avoid a long line, make sure guests are comfortable.
With an outdoor line, plan for possible swings in the weather. Tents really aren't that expensive; even if it's a gorgeous day, not having the sun beating down on you while you're in line makes a big difference.

Offering food and beverage is, of course, another option; cold water bottles on a hot day can go a long way—as can a glass of champagne.

4. Offer interactive entertainment.
Having something as simple as a magician doing card tricks up and down the line goes a long way. It's something that is engaging, and it's total escapism. Look to the theme parks for examples of ways to make the line feel like part of the event. Theme parks have mastered the art of keeping you entertained and distracted. With entertainment and decor tying in the overall event design, guests’ eyes, ears, and minds are occupied with wonder and awe.

Turn the waiting game from a hate to a love-filled experience with these helpful tips and devour the details of your next event with long lines!