Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Rigging • Fire Marshal Approval • FOH (Front of House)

Run of Show

Term from Event Management industry explained for recruiters

A Run of Show is a detailed timeline document that guides how an event will unfold from start to finish. Think of it as a minute-by-minute playbook that everyone involved in an event follows. It includes all the specific timings, who needs to be where, what happens when, and any technical or logistical details. Event planners and coordinators use this tool to keep everything running smoothly, whether it's a corporate conference, wedding, or entertainment show. It's sometimes also called a "show flow," "event timeline," or "production schedule."

Examples in Resumes

Created detailed Run of Show documents for 20+ corporate events with 500+ attendees

Managed technical requirements and timing through comprehensive Run of Show and Show Flow documents

Coordinated with vendors and speakers using Production Schedule and Run of Show timeline management

Typical job title: "Event Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Event Manager Event Planner Production Coordinator Event Producer Show Producer Stage Manager Event Operations Manager

Where to Find Event Coordinators

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle last-minute changes to a Run of Show during a live event?

Expected Answer: A senior event manager should discuss their crisis management process, including having backup plans, clear communication channels with all team members, and the ability to make quick decisions while maintaining event quality and timing.

Q: How do you create a Run of Show for a complex multi-day conference?

Expected Answer: They should explain their process for organizing multiple tracks, coordinating various stakeholders, managing different venues, and ensuring smooth transitions between sessions while maintaining overall event objectives.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What elements do you include in a Run of Show document?

Expected Answer: Should mention key components like timing, staff positions, technical cues, speaker requirements, AV needs, and notes about special arrangements or requirements.

Q: How do you communicate Run of Show details to different event stakeholders?

Expected Answer: Should discuss methods of creating different versions for different teams (technical, hospitality, speakers), and how to effectively distribute and update information.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of a Run of Show?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a detailed timeline that helps coordinate all aspects of an event, ensuring everyone knows what happens when and where they need to be.

Q: How do you track time during an event to stay on schedule?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic timing tools, communication with team members, and simple methods for keeping track of program elements.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

Creating basic event timelines
Following established Run of Show templates
Basic event coordination
Team communication

Mid (2-5 years)

Developing comprehensive Run of Show documents
Managing multiple stakeholders
Handling last-minute changes
Technical production coordination

Senior (5+ years)

Complex event planning and management
Crisis management
Team leadership
Strategic event planning

Red Flags to Watch For

Unable to explain basic event timing concepts
Lack of experience with event documentation
Poor attention to detail
No experience with live events
Weak communication skills