Your indispensable guide as to why the front row is always left empty..

The ‘empty chair’ is synonymous with grief- and at networking events that’s often true for the organiser, especially when they’re in the front row, in a small square room, when you’re trying to take great photos!

Seriously, it’s a thing. As an event host I really wish people would ‘fill in from the front’. It helps late arrivals grab the back seats surreptitiously, it makes the photos look better and gives a more accurate reflection of how full the room is (you can rarely get the back rows in the shot, especially in square rooms) but it also makes the host feel closer to the squad.

The most expensive seats in the theatre, concerts and at comedy shows? That’s right; at the front! (unless you’ve got a box, we aren’t currently offering those at most MK networking events)

I asked ChatGPT why people avoid sitting in the front row at networking events, here’s what they said and my thoughts on each point:

“People often avoid sitting in the front row at networking events for several reasons:”

1. **Visibility and Attention**: Sitting in the front row draws more attention from speakers and organizers, which can make people feel self-conscious or nervous about being in the spotlight.

I can confirm I have never, and will never, pick on anyone in the front row, unless you heckle. I’ve never seen it at other networking events either, so squash that fear.

2. **Escape Route**: The front row can make it harder to discreetly leave the event if needed. Sitting further back provides an easier exit without being noticed.

Well, that kinda depends on the door position. You can still do that from an aisle seat, so come on, move forward and hug the centre path.

3. **Comfort and Anxiety**: Some people feel more comfortable in the middle or back rows because it allows them to observe the room and other attendees without feeling exposed.

Listen Liam Neeson, event seating is designed with escape routes in mind and unless you’ve really upset a fellow networker in the coffee queue there should be no need to watch your back in the audience, but as per the bullet above; pick an end or an aisle seat for just the same benefits; you’ll all be looking forwards when it starts anyhoo.

4. **Group Dynamics**: If people arrive with colleagues or friends, they may prefer to sit together in rows further back, where they can talk more easily before the event starts.

Come oooon, we aren’t on the school bus now people, you can still do that in the front, middle and side seats, so bring your posse to the front, pretty please.

5. **Following Social Cues**: If the first few attendees choose seats further back, others may follow suit due to social proof, leading to a generally less crowded front row.

Yes- I see this a lot. so if you’re an early entrant, be a lovie and scooch forwards please, don’t make me get my ‘asks’ out.

6. **Perceived Pressure**: The front row might be perceived as a place for those who are especially eager or confident, which can deter people who prefer a more low-key approach.

Hell yeah. It’s not bragging if it’s based on facts! Eager for info and knowledge in exchange for the time I’ve give up; yep! Eager to hear the gems and see the slides dropped by the speakers - yep yep! Eager to meet the best type of people to drive my idea, business or network forward, Yep, yep, yep. Thats why we are all there? No? So..

Say it louder, for the people at the back! Move forward and fill the front seats please peeps!!!