By Sam Dores, CVP
We can picture the headline now, “Mass Gatherings, Concerts and Events are Back and Better Than Ever!” While there’s no timeline for that headline, we try to remain optimistic and push forward in these tough times. We’re all very focused, and rightfully so, on the difficult changes, impact to our staff, and additional costs that this pandemic will bring, but it’s important to remember the silver linings and positive changes that will also come. As we begin the new normal, there will be beneficial changes that become part of our long-term venue and business processes.
We’re identifying new technology and processes that will make our operations more efficient and our guest 
experience that much better. We’re discussing the ways this will help us solve congestion issues we’re traditionally challenged by. Our venues will be safer and cleaner than ever before. Working through various financial models have forced many venues to reduce superfluous costs and find new revenue streams. Finding a way to maintain those cost savings and increased revenues when we return to normal will be beneficial as new business models are ushered in.
Working from home has shown that we can still be productive remotely, opening up the possibility of long-term improvements to work-life balance and mental health. Picture a day where all venues go to once-a-week voluntary work from home days, boosting work-life balance and even saving a little on utility costs. And who would’ve thought that we would miss 18-hour days and 100-hour weeks? Keep that appreciation for what you do, even when we’re back to those crazy hours. Lastly, remember the benefits and importance of relationships, laughter, and finding time to stay in touch as well as we are now, even when events resume. These are just some examples but each of your own circumstances and venues have the opportunity to provide more positives and silver linings.
Undoubtedly, things are difficult right now. Changes aren’t going to be easy and funding is going to be challenging. It’s important to stay realistic within your own venues’ bigger picture but allow yourself a few minutes each day to think about you and your venue’s positives and silver linings. In the midst of all of our daily stressors, this can help re-focus your energy and give you a much-needed mental boost. While none of us wishes we had to take this route to get there, there will be good that comes from this!
Stay Hopeful. Stay Positive. Find those Silver Linings.
Sam Dores, CVP, is the Director of Business Operations, Strategy and Development for ExtraMile Arena and Vice-Chair of the Arenas Committee.
