Hecklers and Inappropriate Players

How to handle hecklers or harassment

There is no one correct way to manage unruly players. Sometimes it's not about You - they're just yelling. Sometimes they are putting you on the spot about the content, or about the scoring. Sometimes, they're hitting on you or otherwise getting too personal.  

If you ever feel unsafe, let a manager or bartender know you feel uncomfortable talking to this person and they should handle the situation. You should also share this in your Host Feedback, or with the Host Manager!

Hecklers/Yellers

The most common kind of annoyance is someone who thinks it’s funny to yell out answers (wrong or right), or “clever” comments. The first time, remind them calmly that one of the rules is not to shout out answers. After that, it is often best to ignore those patrons while you're on the mic. They will often tire out or get shamed by the other patrons who are trying to play or just enjoy their evening. If it doesn’t stop, ask the individual in a calm tone to stop yelling things so others can enjoy the trivia night, then continue. 

Address them directly, off-mic, between questions and face-to-face. This will frequently diffuse the situation and remind them that you’re a human person just trying to do your job. Perhaps point out that you don’t yell at them when they’re at work! Invite them to play along and always (try to) take the high road in graciousness. Only engage a heckler on the mic if you feel confident about being able to shut them down quickly; you don’t want to get sucked into a shouting match in front of the whole bar. If they're just seeking attention, don't give it to them.

Complainers about Content or Scores

If a player becomes aggressive or offensive in their complaints about our content, a host can always

Other Jerks

If there is a player or staff of the location who is