Soft Skills
I want to write about soft skills for stagehand technicians in this week's blog. Emphasis on training often neglects the most simple and effective training a stagehand requires: soft skills. Those skills help stagehands in the most demanding conditions, of which decisions are often made at the time. The primary soft skills are:
Communication.
Effective communication is essential for live productions. Stagehand technicians must get along with directors, designers, and other crew members. "Must" is not the correct word, as we all know we do not get along with everyone. But in a live production, you need to put aside whatever differences you are feeling and work together. Effective communication solves problems, tasks are completed on time, and instructions are understood.
Clear instructions help avoid mistakes that can affect the whole production, such as missing lighting cues or misplaced objects that result from misinterpretation during a live performance.
When unanticipated problems develop, stagehands must openly state issues and offer fixes to prevent delays.
Working with big crews requires professional, polite, and succinct communication to keep harmony and output intact.
If you have been married, are married, or are in a relationship, you know you need to work daily on effective communication. The same applies to your work as a stagehand technician. How should you develop this skill?
Work on active listening by concentrating on the speaker free from interruption.
Give or get directions using polite, succinct language.
Ask questions about unclear directions.
Flexibility.
Live production environments are erratic. Equipment breakdowns, weather disturbances, and last-minute creative adjustments are standard. In these circumstances, stagehand technicians must react quickly and stay calm. Being receptive to change helps one find innovative answers to unanticipated problems. Remaining calm and confident and knowing their job also helps with morale.
Although a stagehand technician's profession is mainly based on technical knowledge, soft skills are the binding agent. Communication, flexibility, time management, teamwork, attention to detail, problem-solving, a strong work ethic, and a sense of humor are essential for succeeding in live events' fast-paced, cooperative environment.
Developing these soft talents improves work performance, improves connections with colleagues, promotes professional development, and, finally, helps raise one's performance caliber. Investing in one's soft abilities is just as crucial as learning one's technical expertise, which distinguishes us.
