It is a dynamic, social industry that’s constantly changing. There are many career options. It is challenging to be an event manager or planner. But it is rewarding. How can one prepare to pursue a career as an event planner?
Event planning is a broad term. They can plan conventions, exhibitions, corporate events, fundraising, weddings, meetings, and corporate events. In addition, young event professionals can work for agencies or in-house. Once their network becomes large enough, some launch their own company.
The events industry has undergone a dramatic transformation in the last two years. Many event planners are switching to event technology jobs as the technology sector grows within the industry. You can also change to become an event manager or event marketing.
In the past, many event planners began their careers in hospitality, as assistants at hotels, for example, and then moved on to management. There are many ways for you to prepare yourself for a career as an event planner:
Soft skills are essential.
- Get a degree,
- Get a certificate,
- Search for free content.
- Volunteer at an event
Join communities to build a network of event professionals.
Are you curious about what certificate or degree to pursue and what soft skills should be developed? This blog is devoted to aspiring event planners.
Learn these soft skills to prepare for a career in event planning
Before we move on to formal education, we must acknowledge that event planners require a specific set of soft skills. It would be best if you had the right personality to do event planning well.
Consider these soft skills when planning an event:
Communication and interpersonal skills
Effective problem-solving and time management are essential to effective time management.
Creativity is the ability to think creatively and outside of the box.
Multitasking,
Attention to detail is necessary (especially for budgeting, signing contracts and signing contracts).
These soft skills will help event planners to manage all aspects of event planning. For example, choosing a venue and labour costs, ensuring attendees are engaged, managing sponsorship opportunities, working with speakers, etc. This is a fast-paced environment that requires your undivided focus.
Looking to launch your event planning career in Minnesota?
Situated in the Upper Midwest of the United States, Minnesota offers a captivating blend of picturesque landscapes, a thriving cultural scene, and a solid economic base. Boasting a wide range of industries, such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and renewable energy, the state fosters an environment that encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and high quality of life.
As you embark on your journey as an event planner, it’s essential to consider the appropriate insurance coverage, such as e&o insurance in Minnesota. By safeguarding your career and financial well-being with the right insurance, you can confidently pursue your passion in this dynamic state.
Study Relevant Degrees
Some colleges and universities offer courses in event management and planning. Curriculums include techniques such as event marketing, experience design, venue management and agreement negotiating.
There are many formal ways to prepare yourself for a career as an event planner. Studying event planning can lead to a career in the field.
- Marketing,
- Mass communications, or PR, is another name for public relations.
- Hotel management or hospitality is a term used to describe the profession.
- Business Administration
- Human Resource Management.
Consider Applying for Event Planning Certificates
The cost and time required to earn an event planning certificate are less than that of a university degree. Several renowned certificates are available, each focusing on an aspect or type of event. Many event professionals hold multiple titles and list them on their LinkedIn profiles.
- DES (Digital Event Strategy) by PCMA
- CSEP (Certified Special Events Professional), by ILEA.
- CMP (Certified Meeting Professional), by EIC (Events Industry Council). – 250 plus 475 (exam fees).
- CEM (Certified in Exhibition Management (TM)) from IAEE (International Association of Exhibitions and Events).
- MPI’s (Meeting Professionals International), EDA (Event Data Analysis),
- CMM (Certified Meeting Management) by MPI
- Management and Strategy Institute CQEP (Certified Event Planner)
- CTSM (Certified Trade Show Marketer), by Exhibitor Magazine
- CGMP (Certified Government Meeting Professional) by SGMP
- CPCE (National Association for Catering and Events), by NACE (National Association for Catering and Events).
- American Society of Association Executives’ CAE (Certified Association Executive).
- Online Courses & Blogs – Free Content
Many online courses and content are available on demand from and by event professionals. Free webinars are regularly hosted by event technology and management companies.
There are also blogs, podcasts and e-books that provide the latest event trends.
Experience the Best Way to Prepare for a Career in Event Planning
Many successful event planners didn’t intend to become one while studying. Our #EventIcons’ guests often say they “fell into events”. They didn’t fall into event planning because they took certificates. They started their careers by working at events in whatever capacity they could.
Volunteering or working at events can be a great way to prepare yourself for a career as an event planner. You will get a feel for what an event entails and whether you like the work environment.
Plan events for your community, such as music festivals, college events, and non-profit events. Meet event professionals in your area, and build a portfolio of experience.
Create a robust network of event professionals.
In the event industry, networking is crucial to a successful career. Future event planners should build relationships so potential employers or clients will remember them when looking for someone with their skill set.
A young professional’s networking is also a goldmine of knowledge and ideas. Don’t just network to your benefit. The ultimate goal should be to meet professionals and become part of a supportive network.
How do you start?
Connect with event professionals via LinkedIn.
Join online groups and communities for event professionals.
Find events and networking opportunities for young professionals working in the event industry.
When working on events, make a personal connection with as many event planners as you can.
Start Here to Prepare for a Career in Event Planning
It is impossible to prepare yourself for a career as an event planner or manager in a single way. A degree in marketing, mass communication, event management or other relevant fields may help you to get your foot in the door. However, this is no guarantee that you will be successful in the events industry. Certifications are no different. They are still an excellent way to learn about industry trends and thinkers.
Regarding event planning, networking and gaining practical experience are the most critical factors. Multi-taskers with a creative flair who can handle stress and put clients first are the best event managers. Consider volunteering at local events, whether you are pursuing formal education or otherwise. Create a portfolio to help you land an event planner or manager job.
