Why Are We Still Hiring Through Groupchats?

In an industry that generates billions of dollars a year, it’s wild that so many of us are still relying on group texts, Facebook comments, and DM chains to staff tours and shows.

Yes, those tools have served us. They’ve helped us get last-minute gigs filled and kept us connected with our trusted circles. But they’re also a closed loop—one that often leaves incredible professionals out simply because they don’t have the “right” contact saved in their phone.

It’s not that the talent isn’t out there. It’s that our hiring systems aren’t built to find them.

At its core, the live events industry is powered by relationships. But when hiring depends on who you know—not what you can do—it creates barriers for qualified professionals who are newer to the space, from underrepresented communities, or simply outside your immediate network.

We can do better.

That’s why I built Giggs—a platform designed to make hiring in live events more inclusive, efficient, and fair. We’re not trying to replace relationships. We’re trying to expand them. Giggs connects employers with road-ready professionals based on experience, skills, and availability—not just who happens to be online at the right time in a group chat.

Because let’s face it: a text thread shouldn’t be your hiring strategy.

It’s time for a system that works for everyone—from seasoned tour managers to emerging talent looking for their first shot.

So here’s my question:

Who else is ready to stop refreshing group chats—and start building something better?

— Nikki Sanz

Founder & CEO, Giggs