How to Run an Open Mic (7 Steps)

Choose an appropriate venue. Location is key. So is atmosphere. If the place is large enough to warrant the use of microphones, make sure the venue is properly equipped.
Prepare the venue. Make sure the stage is set up properly and that the mics are checked ahead of time. Get to know the sound mixer, so that you can adjust volume on-the-fly during a performance.
Establish your authority. If you have a powerful stage presence, you're in luck. The key is make sure everyone knows who's the boss of this show, in a friendly way. Don't be afraid to make tough decisions. If there are too many people who want to perform, you are simply going to have to say no to someone. Introduce yourself. Smile. Be actively involved in signing people up, placing them in the order you feel works best, and so on.
Determine the sign-up method. If there is a piece of paper for people to put their name and talent on, make sure everyone knows where it is, and do not lose track of it. You will need it when introducing performers to the stage.
Keep the vibe of the open mic live and electric. Quickly and smoothly follow one act with another. Don't let the mood go wildly up and down. Keep a steady curve to the mood of the night. You can do this by stalling for time as the host when necessary, or by shooing off someone who is trying to monopolize the mic. Engage the audience by encouraging applause, but don't try to bully them into clapping long and loud for a performer who just wasn't all that exciting.
Make sure all performers know when they are supposed to go up to the open mic. If they know which act they are to follow, that's even better. It gives them prep time so they can get onstage and start performing when their time slot opens up.
Keep things balanced between loose and tight. Too loose, you've got yourself some anarchy. The night will end before all scheduled performers have gone up, or worse yet, the night will drag on until there is no one left in the audience. Too tight, and the 'open' in open mic will seem like fraud. Keep things jovial and good-natured. Just don't let anyone step on you.
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How to Plan a Summer BBQ

Pick the right day. BBQ's are best for end of the week gatherings or weekend days. Pick a time when most people will be available.
Create your guest list. If you've had lots of parties, you know that guest lists tend to expand. If you invite one friend, you have to invite others and so on. Pick compatible people from various sources. Don't just invite people from work. If you do invite people from work, limit the number so that they don't cluster and only talk about work. Diversify. Include neighbors and family members and new acquaintances. Introduce your guests to one another so they can mingle and talk.
Make a party CD. It's a good idea to have all of the music planned ahead of time so that you aren't distracted by choosing CDs and changing the tunes. Making MP3 CDs is great for parties because you can fit 8 hours of music on one CD.
Plan the food. Get a fairly accurate head count so that you know how much of everything to buy. As you invite people, assign them a type of food (salad, dessert, drinks) to bring. Plan for about 20 percent more than you expect. Have a variety of items on hand to BBQ for different tastes. If some people are vegetarian, have some gardenburgers to toss on the grill.
Make sure the food is safe. Meat and mayo based products can't be left for more than 4 hours without refrigeration. No food should be uncovered or in the sun. Barbecue meat to at least medium. Keep an eye on people who over-indulge in alcohol. Have a first aid kit and fire extinguisher on hand for emergencies.
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