How to Get Into Cool Events For Free

Have you ever wanted to attend a film festival? Get into a premier party, go to a beer fest or play-off game and wondered how can I get in? I don't have the money or the connections. By following these step-by-step instructions you will learn how to get in, have fun and give back by taking advantage of volunteer opportunities.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Make a List: What cool events would you like to get into? Your first step is to make a list of what you like to do and events that you would like to get in to. By making a list you can be sure to stay focused and inquire and apply in time for any training or orientation sessions that are required.
2. Identify the Major Volunteer Organizations in Your Area: It is inevitable, any major production will need additional staff and support to meet demands. Much of the time event managers will contact reputable local volunteer organizations and post the opportunity with them. Most volunteer organizations maintain an up to date list of opportunities. The listing will provide you with an overview of the event, a listing of open jobs and contact information. Another resource for opportunities is Craig's List and idealist.org. Both of these resources also maintain up to date volunteer opportunities.
3. Attend the Orientation Session: Believe it or not, once you have selected a volunteer opportunity, attending the orientation session is critical to your ultimate enjoyment of the event. At the orientation session you will receive a detailed overview of the event as well as descriptions of the job assignments available. It is through these job assignment descriptions that you learn what is required of you, what you will be expected to do, how long your shift is and how many shifts you are required to work before you can take advantage of the benefits of being a volunteer. Don't hesitate to ask questions and get lots of clarification.
4. Know the Schedule: Your ultimate goal is to get in and have fun. By taking the time to know the schedule you can sign up for shifts that don't conflict with what you want to get out of the event. A lot of events need volunteers to do prep and set up work before hand. Signing up for these assignments gets your volunteer hours out of the way and frees you to enjoy the festivities. Remember, although you are a volunteer and this is not your job and you are not being "paid," people are counting on you. Don't make commitments you can't keep and don't schedule yourself to work shifts that conflict with your ultimate goal, getting in and enjoying the event.

Tips & Warnings

• Be at least 30 minutes early to your shift. Being early will give you time to check in, find your assignment area, get any briefings that are needed as well as get a feel for the event.
• Understand job requirements. If the job at a film festival is titled "Theater Operations," does that mean you are running the projector or taking tickets?
• Be clear about the benefits for hours worked. How many hours do you have to work to get a t-shirt, free admittance, event gift bags or other perks?
• Know who to contact in case of emergency. Remember these folks are counting on you to show up. If you can't make it you need to tell someone.