SXSW is an event that every brand ambassador dreams of working. The atmosphere is electric and the vibe is unbelievable. For those of you who want to cross this epic event off your brand ambassador bucket list, we’ve put together some helpful tips that will help you secure your dream gig while having the time of your life.
How to Book SXSW Gigs if You’re Not Local to Austin
You don’t have to be a local in order to work SXSW. With a game plan in place, you can secure a SXSW gig no matter where you live.
- Add Austin, TX to your list of locations on all your brand ambassador agency profiles. This way, when jobs become available, you’ll be in the know.
- Make travel arrangements before you start applying for SXSW events. This includes transportation and accommodations. Staffing Managers may be hesitant to book traveling brand ambassadors due to the unpredictable issues that arise when their staff isn’t local to the area. Being able to provide proof of your arrangements instills confidence in their decision to book you. If you plan on driving to Austin, have a backup plan in place (rental car or other means of transportation) if your vehicle decides that it doesn’t want to make the trip.
- If you are an established brand ambassador and work for a number of agencies, reach out to your agency contacts and let them know that you are available to work at SXSW.
- Travel with other brand ambassadors. Lean on your network and see if you can get a group together to share expenses.
- Check the Austin Facebook Brand Ambassador groups and SXSW groups to check for job announcements daily, even when SXSW is in full swing.
- If you don’t have a gig secured, you still have a decent shot at picking up some shifts. Many agencies seek last-minute staff at SXSW for several reasons and will email blast their Austin talent and/or post jobs online. Be on top of things and ready to go even at the last minute.
If you’re an experienced brand ambassador and local to Austin, you most likely will be able to land a SXSW gig. Just be sure you do your due diligence when applying for gigs and communicating with agencies.
SXSW Brand Ambassador Tips
- Save your agency contact’s phone number into your phone as well as the on-site contact.
- Avoid driving if possible. Traffic and parking are challenging during the festival. Research and plan alternate modes of transportation ahead of time.
- Do a trial run before your first shift. Visit the activation or meeting location, locate restrooms and food spots, and time your commute so you know exactly when to leave.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early. Your event manager will appreciate it and you’ll be able to settle yourself prior to go-time.
- Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals. Bring a refillable water bottle and emergency snacks. Long days require proper fuel.
- Wear comfortable shoes. 10–12 hour shifts can be brutal on your body.
- Pack a small “survival kit” (sunscreen, lip balm, pain reliever, extra socks, poncho, portable charger).
- Bring a change of clothes if you plan to go out after your shift. Most clients require you to leave in non-branded attire.
- Get plenty of sleep and avoid late nights before early call times.
- Be reliable. Once committed to a position don’t cancel for a higher-paying gig, especially at the last minute. SXSW is highly competitive. Reliability protects your reputation.
- Be proactive. Before you leave for the day, check-in with the event manager see if anything additional is needed. Offering to help is a great way to show your dedication and it won’t go unnoticed.
- Follow the assigned break schedule and communicate respectfully if an issue arises
- Treat every attendee as if they are the client. You never know when or where a client rep may show up and who is watching.
- Most importantly, enjoy the experience! Take in Austin when you can and celebrate your hard work.
ATN Event Staffing hires brand ambassadors and promotional staff for some of the hottest brands at SXSW! If you are interested in receiving updates, be sure to create a talent profile with us (add Austin to your location list) and we’ll keep you informed of any openings that we have!
*This post was originally published in February, 2019 and has been updated.
