Event planning is a career that likely won’t go out of style because clients will always need someone to host events for them. Additionally, advancements in technology have fueled this business to make it more convenient and productive. Event planning is a broad term that encompasses numerous professions. This diverse career path requires creative, skillful and energetic people who love to work with others and who excel at taking on unforeseen circumstances. If you want to become an event planter, it takes formal training, the willingness to handle challenges and a desire to please clients.
Decide on a Niche
The first step is to decide what niche to choose. Ideally, you want to match it to your preferences and personality. Event planning spans three general categories: corporate, social and non-profit. Each specialized area has its own pros and cons. You will want to choose one that meets your expectations and provides the kind of pay you need.
Corporate Events
Planning corporate events involves working well with others because it includes the use of assorted third-party vendors. This job can be demanding because of tight schedules and long hours, but you get to deal with well-known brands. If you enjoy working in office environments, this career might be an option.
Social Events
The characteristics of social event planning are totally opposite from corporate event planning. You won’t have to worry about office politics, you can set flexible hours, and it usually just involves small groups of vendors. This also makes the ideal career choice when you’re not ready to go full-time. You can find a niche within this career path and choose to plan birthday parties, weddings or small hotel functions.
Non-profit Organizations
Planning events for non-profit organizations can provide some of the most satisfying and enjoyable projects. That’s because you work with different assignments each time. These include athletic events, fundraisers and public relations. If you like diverse assignments and want to try something new each time, consider event planning for non-profit organizations.
Duties
No matter which niche you choose, each comes with three types of responsibilities: duties before, during and after an event. The first step consists of the planning phase. This involves evaluation of the project, setting a budget and choosing the event place. You will take bids from vendors who provide services and items. You might also need to contact speakers to appear at the event.
During the function, you’ll have to keep attendees happy by meeting their needs and requirements. You will need to supervise your team members and assure that they’re doing their jobs efficiently. Taking notes also helps because you will need them for the report.
This statement should include the number of people who showed up and the cost of the event. If applicable, it also includes the revenues that were accumulated. It’s also a good idea to send out post-event surveys. Gathering this information will help improve your services in the future.
Skills
As you can see, event planning requires the ability to complete assorted tasks. In order to be successful in this career choice, you’ll need certain skill sets. It helps if you’re outgoing and love to work with people, but formal training and experience help you obtain the necessary technical abilities to perform this job.
Training
A bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications or hospitality will get you on the right track. If you prefer, you can obtain a degree in event planning. These course studies will help you learn marketing, event managing, accounting and other tasks related to this type of business.
Taking online courses that relate to event planning, participating in webinars or attending event schools will also prepare you for successful employment in this field. For practical know-how, apply for entry-level jobs in related firms or studios. This will give you hands-on experience.
Volunteering
While a formal education is always a good way to get ahead, not everyone can pursue this path. In that case, you can gain experiences by volunteering in related markets. This will also help you gain an understanding of what the business entails. If you decide you don’t like it, you won’t be out any money.