Volunteers help make the magic happen! Selected volunteers receive 1/2 off their ticket in exchange for 15 hours of volunteer work at the event. They attend all the sessions and social events, receive all swag, and a Team Wild shirt.
How do I become a volunteer?
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please fill in an application here. Once we have all the applicants needed, we will close the form.
What is a swag fairy?
On Friday & Saturday there are swag drops & table sets for the awesome goodies our sponsors give to everyone. The swag fairies deliver the goodies!
What are Team Leads?
Team leads are chosen by Team Wild, usually someone who has been a volunteer before but not always. Someone who can help manage volunteers in a particular field. They receive a free ticket for a role that requires more hours.
Will I have to miss things in order to be a volunteer?
You will be able to attend all sessions, workshops and parties! For a few sessions, you may have to leave a few minutes early to grab swag for your table. We try to limit this as mush as possible.
Do volunteers still get the same swag as the rest of the attendees?
Yes! If it's something that is meant for everyone that always includes volunteers too!
What if I already have tickets to the Shop Summit?
We will work around your schedule! There is a section of the application to note your available hours and to note what other events you’re attending.
What if I don’t know anyone?
We actually think being a volunteer is perfect for those who don’t know anyone or those who are shy. It can be easier to make friends with people you work alongside. There is an undoubtable bond between volunteers. There is also a small volunteer Facebook group you will be part of and will get to know everyone better leading up to the event.
Will I have the same experience as regular attendees?
Yes, you will have access to the same things as other attendees. But working behind the scenes is also a different experience. It’s not easy work but seeing everyone so excited and grateful fills you with great pride. The feeling is really indescribable. You see and hear things before anyone else, have a deeper understanding of what it takes to pull a premier event off, and make great friendships you may not have otherwise had.
Can I still volunteer even if I'm not staying at the event hotel?
Yes, each year we have welcomed off site volunteers.
If I was a volunteer in previous years does that mean I will get chosen every year?
We love our volunteers from every year. Each year the criteria is different based on the specific needs of the event. Giving opportunities to new volunteers is just as important to us as bringing back previous ones.
When will the schedule be out for volunteers?
Each year is different. There can be changes that happen once we’ve scheduled volunteer’s their shift. To avoid confusion, we don’t release the schedule too far in advance.
When do I need to be there if I'm volunteering?
A lot of work starts a few days before the conference, but no one is required to change travel arrangements in order to be there early. We appreciate those who can and value their time, but we also understand that's just not feasible for all. You will have the opportunity to let us know when you are arriving and available.
What if my schedule changes after I have submitted my application?
When you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation email. There, you’ll find a link to revise anything you need. If you cannot access it, please email us at support@wildforplanners.com
Do I have to have a vehicle if I'm volunteering?
Absolutely not. We appreciate knowing if you have access to a vehicle during shifts, but it is not a requirement at all.
What is a requirement for being a volunteer?
While this is a volunteer opportunity for a discounted ticket, it still requires the same professionalism as a job. As a volunteer, you represent GO Wild, and will not only have interactions with attendees but also with sponsors. It is very important to be friendly, calm & courteous in all your interactions with them and between each other. As much as we plan the event, things inevitably change so being flexible is important as well. We also encourage open communication between each other and the team leads.
What kind of work will I have to do?
You name it and I’m sure we’ve needed someone to do it! Each year and each sponsor is so unique. Some examples are swag or welcome bag assembly, organizing the swag room, decorating tables, registering attendees, helping with sponsor activations, etc. We schedule volunteers by shift hours. So your task would be whatever is a priority at that moment.
When will I get to eat?
If your shift runs during lunch/dinner (ex 12-2p), please eat before or after since it would take a good portion of your shift away. We encourage everyone to bring drinks and snacks with you for during your shift. You’ll notice someone is eating or drinking something at all times!
Will I get breaks?
Yes, but they are not scheduled by us. If you feel a need for a short break, please let a Team Lead know just as a courtesy. Please keep the length and frequency reasonable, especially if your shift is short.
What kind of hours will I be working?
Everyone is required to be a swag fairy during the conference, unless physically impaired. We need an incredible amount of hands to quickly pass swag to excited & eager attendees! We try to schedule everyone for approximately of 15 hours. We try not to keep anyone late or over their 15 hours so we work hard to get things done. Sometimes it’s not possible, it’s not ideal, but it is realistic.
Where do I report when starting my shift?
When we release everyone’s shift, we will let you know where the main swag hub will be. That is where you check in / check out for your shift.
What if I’m running late or my plans change?
We understand things happen beyond your control but please be on time and report for your assigned shift. As you can imagine, it is extremely difficult to work around everyone’s unique schedule. So if you are late or don’t show up, it throws everything off. If you are late or something drastic happens, please contact a Team Lead.
Is everything all sunshine and roses?
Simply put, no. That’s impossible with such a large event and so many different personalities working closely together. The key is in how you deal with them, just like in your everyday life. Want positivity? You’ll know who to gravitate towards!
What if something goes wrong, who do I go to?
The MOST important thing is to keep calm, especially in front of sponsors and attendees. Never approach a sponsor in a panic. Attendees should never feel your stress. You represent GO Wild so you must stay professional. If anything goes wrong, like a missing item for a sponsor, go to a Team Lead for direction. Everything is fixable, we will make a plan B.