Are you interested in a career in corporate event planning? Whether you're fresh out of college or looking to switch careers, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started in the events industry.
The corporate event planning business can be an exciting and rewarding career path, but breaking into the industry can seem daunting. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to get started, including researching education and training options, building your network, gaining experience, and continuously developing your skills and knowledge in order to be able to put together memorable professional events.
With dedication and hard work, you can build a successful career in corporate event planning. From education and training to networking and gaining experience, here's how to break into the world of planning corporate events.
The first step to becoming a successful corporate event planner is to obtain the right education and training. Here are some options to consider:
College degree: A degree in hospitality management, event planning, or business can give you the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field.
Certification programs: Organizations like the International Live Events Association (ILEA) offer certification programs that can help you develop specialized skills and knowledge.
On-the-job training: Consider looking for a role as an event coordinator or assistant to gain hands-on experience in the event planning process.
Attending industry events is a great way to meet other professionals in the field and learn from their experiences. Conferences and trade shows offer opportunities to attend workshops and panel discussions, as well as network with industry leaders. Be sure to bring business cards and introduce yourself to other attendees.
Joining professional organizations is another effective way to expand your network. Many professional organizations offer networking events, educational opportunities, and access to industry resources. Joining a local chapter can also help you connect with other event planners in your area.
Social media can be a powerful tool for building relationships in the industry. Follow event planning professionals on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Engage with their content by liking, commenting, and sharing. This can help you establish yourself as a thought leader in the industry and build your brand.
Remember to be genuine in your networking efforts. Don't just focus on what you can get out of the relationship, but also consider how you can offer value to others. Building authentic relationships in the industry can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations down the road.
The right type of corporate event planning software can be a game-changer for the planning process, providing them with the tools they need to streamline their workflow, collaborate more effectively with their team and vendors, and keep track of all the important details in a corporate event planning checklist.
Here are some specific ways that professional event planning software can help a corporate event management and planning:
Project management: Event planning software can help corporate event planners keep track of all the tasks involved in planning an event, assign responsibilities to team members, and monitor multiple events in real-time.
Budget management: Software can also provide accurate and real-time tracking of expenses, automate budget calculations, and analyze spending trends and patterns. This can help planners accurately track their event budget, make adjustments, and prevent overspending.
Communication: Clear communication with all the stakeholders involved is key to creating a successful event. The right software can also help event planners communicate more effectively with their team and vendors, providing a centralized platform for sharing information, updating schedules, and collaborating on documents.
Registration and ticketing: Some software platforms offer tools for managing event registration and ticket sales, making it easier for event planners to manage attendance and collect payment.
Analytics: Conference management software can also provide valuable analytics and data insights, helping planners track attendance, engagement, and other metrics that can inform future event planning strategies.
Gaining experience in the field is an essential step towards building a successful career as a corporate event planner. There are several ways to gain experience in the industry, and some of the most common options include volunteering, internships, and freelancing.
Volunteering is an excellent way to gain experience while also making a difference in your community. Consider reaching out to local charities or non-profits and offer your services to help plan their events. This can provide you with hands-on experience in event planning while also giving you the opportunity to build your portfolio and network with other professionals in the field.
Internships are another great way to gain experience in the industry. Many event planning companies offer internships to students or recent graduates, providing them with the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and gain real-world experience in the field. Look for internships that match your interests and goals, and be sure to apply early to increase your chances of being accepted.
Finally, freelancing is an option for those who want to gain experience and build their network on their own terms. Consider offering your services as a freelance event planner, working with clients on small-scale events, and building your portfolio as you go. This can be a great way to gain experience and build your reputation in the industry while also maintaining flexibility in your work.
In the corporate event planning industry, building a strong personal brand can help you stand out and attract potential clients. Here are some strategies to help you build your brand:
Create a website: A website is a valuable tool for establishing your brand and making it easy for potential clients to find you. Make sure your website is professional, easy to navigate, and includes information about your services, experience, and contact details.
Use social media: Social media can be a powerful tool for building your brand and connecting with potential clients. Use platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to share photos and updates about your work, highlight industry news and trends, and engage with other professionals in the field.
Build relationships: Networking and building relationships is essential for building your brand in the corporate event planning industry. Attend industry events and conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with other event planners and industry professionals on social media to expand your network and build relationships.
Creating a portfolio is a crucial step for any event planner looking to showcase their skills and experience to potential employers or clients. Your portfolio is essentially a collection of your best work and should highlight your creativity, organization, and attention to detail. Here are some things to consider including in your event planning portfolio:
Event summaries: Summarize your involvement in each event you have planned. Be sure to include information about the event's objectives, your role in planning and executing the event, and any challenges you faced and overcame.
Event collateral: Including samples of event collateral such as photos, invitations, programs, the event website, and other materials you've created can give potential employers or clients a sense of your creativity and design skills. Make sure to showcase a variety of different types of collateral, such as invitations, signage, and digital assets.
References: Including references from people you've worked with in the industry can help establish your credibility and trustworthiness. Be sure to ask for permission before including anyone as a reference and make sure to include their contact information.
Ultimately, your event planning portfolio should be a reflection of your skills and experience. Make sure to keep it updated and organized so that you can easily share it with potential employers or clients. A strong portfolio can set you apart from other candidates and help you land your dream job or secure new clients.
Corporate event planning can be an exciting and fulfilling career path. Breaking into the industry requires dedication and hard work, but with the right education, training, networking, and experience, you can build a successful career.
Remember that a successful career in corporate event planning requires ongoing learning and development, dedication, and hard work. With persistence and a strong work ethic, you can achieve your career goals and enjoy a fulfilling career in this exciting industry.