The floor manager (FM)

The role of the floor manager varies depending on the type of production, but for the purposes of this book S will restrict myself to their work in the studio.

Safety

The FM is responsible for safety on the studio floor. That means they have the authority to stop a production if they are unhappy with the safety arrangements for a show.

They are responsible for the presence and use of all substances in the studio, including glass, pyrotechnics and aerosols. This is particularly important when working with a studio audience, or with young or disabled people.

Interpret and relay instructions from the control room

This may not be necessary if the presenters are on talkback, but even so the FM checks that the presenters heard the instructions.

The ‘interpreting’ bit is important. There are many times when the control room has become very stressful, and the FM has interpreted ‘Get the ******* presenter onto the stage now’ into ‘We’d like to start recording please Mr Entertainment. So, starting positions everyone ….’

Cue presenters

They make sure the presenters know which camera they are working to, and they give countdowns in the studio for everyone not on talkback.

Co-ordinate props, sets and wardrobe

During small programmes they take care of props etc. On larger programmes they either work with assistant floor managers (AFM), or with specialist prop, set and wardrobe staff.

Anticipate problems

An experienced FM will predict problems before they happen, and will probably sort them out before you even know they exist.

‘Mr Good-vibes’

The hardest part of the job to teach, and the bit everyone appreciates most, is the influence on staff morale. Studio days can be long. People can become stressed. An FM can absorb much of the pressure as it builds up, and protect the innocent from a tirade of abuse. The FM looks after everybody,

Nobody looks after the FM.

Courtesy NBC Europe/WWEN/124 Facilities

The floor manager is the director on the floor. Expected to be permanently full of energy, they should take much of the pressure off the director.