Event Management has gradually become one of the most promising fields for building a successful career. Event managers have become essential for planning big gatherings such as corporate parties, weddings, business meetings, training seminars, industry conferences, trade shows, ceremonies, or a personal celebration. It is essential to note that event managers must follow the clients’ instructions and work within a specified budget and predetermined schedule.
Events play a huge part in the success of a brand or an organization. The process of event planning can vary in complexity and detail with the size and type of the event. Here is a short list of some responsibilities one should implement as event manager:
- – coordinate suppliers, handle client queries and troubleshoot on the day of the event to ensure that all runs smoothly and to budget;
- – organize facilities for car parking, traffic control, security, first aid, hospitality and the media;
- – research venues, suppliers and contractors, then negotiate prices and hire;
- – solve problems and conducting negotiations;
- – promote the event and attract sponsorship via marketing and sales techniques;
- – obtaining necessary permits for hosting the event, etc.
If you are curious about building a career in Event Management, you better start immersing yourself in the events that surround you as soon as possible. For example, make the most of your time at university by organizing events for a student society or for charities or clubs you have links with. Experience in the hospitality industry or in a sales, marketing or customer service role is also useful. It is possible to work in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors for event management companies, in-house organizations or freelance — it’s all up to you. You’ll need relevant experience.
As a new event manager, you’ll typically develop your skills and knowledge by working alongside more experienced colleagues. Salaries vary depending on your employer, location and the sector you work in.