Breaking The Silence: Addressing Bullying in the Exhibition Industry, A Freelancer’s Guide
The exhibition industry thrives on creativity, collaboration, and relentless hard work. But behind the glamour of seamless show floors and bustling stands lies a harder truth: bullying remains a persistent, often unspoken issue. While no sector is immune, the transient and hierarchical nature of event work—combined with high-pressure environments and tight timelines—creates space for toxic behaviours to thrive. For freelancers, who make up a significant and growing portion of the workforce, the situation can be even more precarious.
Understanding the Landscape
Freelancers are the backbone of the exhibition industry. From operations managers to build crews, safety managers to front-of-house staff, freelance professionals provide the agility and expertise needed to deliver complex projects at pace. However, the very independence that defines freelance work can leave individuals vulnerable.
Unlike full-time employees, freelancers may work across multiple organisations with varying cultures and expectations. As a result, they often lack access to HR support, policy protections or a formal reporting structure. Many are hesitant to speak out, fearing that raising a complaint could jeopardise future contracts or tarnish their reputation in what is widely recognised as a close-knit industry.
Recognising Bullying Behaviour
Bullying isn’t always overt. It can be subtle and systemic, making it harder to identify or prove. Common examples include:
- Repeatedly undermining someone’s work or decisions
- Public belittling or humiliation
- Exclusion from meetings or communications
- Unreasonable demands or moving goalposts
- Threats to reputation or work opportunities
- Abusive language, intimidation, or gaslighting
It’s important to distinguish between a tough environment and a toxic one. Constructive criticism, high expectations, or occasional friction under stress are normal in fast-paced industries. Consistent patterns of mistreatment, however, are not.
What Can Freelancers Do?
- Document Everything
Keep a written record of incidents, including dates, times, what was said or done, and who was present. Save relevant emails, messages, or screenshots. This evidence is crucial if you need to escalate the issue. - Seek Peer Support
You’re not alone. Reach out to trusted colleagues or professional networks. Talking it through can help validate your experiences, offer support, and even reveal patterns of behaviour others have witnessed too. - Use Industry Bodies and Unions
Freelancers are increasingly turning to trade bodies, which offer legal advice and dispute resolution services. You may also be eligible for union membership depending on your role. - Request a Mediation or Escalation
If you’re working on a contracted project and there’s a clear client or production lead, consider raising the issue formally. Choose your words carefully—focus on the impact on the work and your ability to deliver rather than the personalities involved. - Protect Future Work
While you might fear being blacklisted, many others—especially in more senior roles—will respect you for setting boundaries. Where possible, work with clients who have clear codes of conduct and onboarding protocols that protect all parties. - Name the Behaviour (When Safe)
In a calm, professional tone, pointing out inappropriate behaviour in the moment—e.g., “I don’t think that’s appropriate,” or “Let’s keep this professional”—can disrupt patterns and set boundaries. Only do this if you feel safe and supported in doing so. - Walk Away
If the environment becomes intolerable and no remedy is in sight, walking away is sometimes the healthiest and most powerful decision. Your wellbeing and professional integrity come first. Let your network know your reasons—you’ll often find quiet support in unexpected places.
What the Industry Needs to Do
While freelancers can take steps to protect themselves, the burden should not fall solely on individuals. Event organisers, agencies, and venues must:
- Establish and enforce anti-bullying policies that apply to all staff, permanent or freelance
- Provide clear reporting channels for freelancers and temporary workers
- Commit to fair hiring practices that do not penalise whistleblowers
- Foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and accountability from the top down
Final Thoughts
Freelancers may not have the institutional power of permanent employees, but they are essential to the success of the exhibition industry. By speaking out, setting clear boundaries, and demanding better standards, freelancers are not just protecting themselves—they are pushing the industry toward a more equitable and sustainable future.
If you’ve experienced bullying in the exhibition industry, know that you are not alone—and your voice matters. Demanding a safe working environment for you and your peers is not you being difficult; it’s you being a decent human being.
If you’re a freelancer or contractor within the events industry who has experienced concerning behaviour or a toxic environment, please seek support. If you feel like you have no one to turn to, know that Ways & Means Directors Miriam and Gill are always willing to offer an ear, support and guidance.