How to Start Career in Event Planning?

 

Ever dreamt of being an event planner? What are the requirements? How to be one? Wondering how to get started?

Basic requirements while you are considering a job in events are being passionate about working with people, ability to multitask and take control over any chaotic situation, be a problem solver, have an eye for details, and incredibly creative. We are here to help with further information on starting your career in event planning.

What are the duties and responsibilities?

The duties and responsibilities will differ depending on the specific industry, but all planners will typically be responsible for the following tasks:

●      Scheduling event and production within a given timeframe

●      Understanding clients' requirements and contributing creative ideas to add value to them

●      Researching the market to identify the best locations for the venue, subcontractors, and suppliers

●      Coordinating a pre-event assessment to avoid any glitches

●      Visiting venues to ensure the usability and that they meet requirements

●      Managing decor, catering, entertainment, venue, guest list, any special guests, promotional products and equipment

●      Re-ensuring satisfaction of client by overseeing all activities

●      Reviewing bills, invoices, and approve payments

What skills do event planners need?

An event planner should be:

●      Organised

●      Open to collaboration

●      Willing to adapt

●      Creative

●      Focused

●      Able to multitask

●      Good with budgeting

●      An excellent communicator

●      Composed and calm under pressure

●      A networking pro

●      Ready to negotiate

●      Prepared to travel

What are the required educational qualifications?

A degree isn't necessary to become an event planner, but certain qualifications and certificates can help you get noticed and hired. You may pursue a degree or diploma in hospitality, public relations, marketing, or take a few related certificate programs such as IBT certificates. Level 3 certificate in event planning offers learners in-depth knowledge and skills regarding the fundamental principles of event planning, investigating what is included and what role is played by the planner in the process of event planning. Whichever course you are learning, take advantage of every networking opportunity they offer.

How to set your feet into the events industry?

To break into the events industry, you must have:

Knowledge

Learn as much as you can about event planning and related topics by researching the industry. Every piece of information is useful, be it from blogs or magazines or articles in newspapers. With extensive researching, you learn more. As a result, you gain more knowledge and the more on-trend you are because they change from year to year. Staying updated on-trend is essential for event planners. If you are a newbie, learning level 2 certificate course helps you gain relevant knowledge to start your career in this industry.

Skills

Event planners must possess various skills which are mentioned above, to be successful. For instance, they should excel with verbal and written communications and have sensibilities when it is regarding venue selection, catering, production, entertainment, gifts, transportation, lodging, and conference services.

Experience

Gaining valuable experience is the first step to get hired or to start your own event planning business. You can acquire experience by volunteering or through internships. Volunteering non-profit organisations for putting up their events assists you in gaining experience on your hands. Working as an intern with an established event planner or event planning company is another perfect way to get the experience you need.

Networking

The best way to kickstart in this industry by networking. Volunteering is a great networking opportunity. While volunteering events strike up conversations with vendors and build your contact list. With these contacts, you will know the best events suppliers and professionals such as caterers, lighting and decor suppliers, contractors, video producers, photographers, and DJs. You can also build connections online by joining various event planning communities in social media platforms. Another way is by joining and being a member of professional organisations.

Summing it up, by building skills, gaining experience, and establishing connections bring you closer to your event career goals.

 

Get Started

School of Business London provides academic support and counselling concerning career options and academic ventures. To learn more mail us at admission@sbusinesslondon.ac.uk.