5 tips to break into event planning

So you want to be an event planner? It is a fun and exciting job and never a dull moment. If you’re a super organised person planning events for a living sounds like a dream – choosing food,  décor, working with tons of different people and spending your days looking at cool venues. Better than sitting behind a desk all day that’s for sure.

However planning events takes a lot more than being able to organise a great party, you’ve got to be thick skinned, have an eye for detail and the ability to stay cool in a sometimes very pressured environment.

You don’t necessarily need a background in event planning to become an event planner. If you have a knack for organising and planning, you‘re half way there. However it is a tough industry to crack and in order to stand out and get the job you need to set yourself apart and find ways to shine above the rest.

Sounds like you? Read on to learn how to get into the industry.

1. Volunteer

There are so many charities and non-profits that need volunteers for their events, and being a volunteer gives you invaluable experience. These organisations want to raise the most money possible, so they need a low overheard when throwing events, and the best way for them to do so is by not paying for staff. 

It can also give your great insight into the job description. Try out a lot of events and gain as much experience as you can while serving your community at the same time. This will look good on your resume and you might meet people along the way who could assist you in finding a job.

2. Internship

You might need to offer your services for free in exchange for valuable experience, mentorship and a possible reference down the road for when you begin job hunting. Yes unpaid or very badly paid, but it will be worth a lot, and in some cases you might actually get hired by the company you’re doing your internship with.

3. Understand an event planner’s duties

• Meet with clients
• Plan event (including time, location, program, cost
• Venue scout
• Coordinate event services ( transportation, accommodation, food)
• Organise staff
• Monitor event activities
• Review event

4. Network

Events are the biggest networking paloozas ever. You’d be crazy to volunteer your time at an event and not walk away with a few new contacts.

5. Above all you need to be

• Motivated
• Smiley
• Organised 
• Determined
• Flexible 
• Committed
• Dependable
• Proactive 
• Creative 
• Able to work as a team player

It’s not always as glamorous as it appears and there is a lot of pressure involved, but it is incredibly rewarding to see your hard work come to fruition and create a wonderful experience for your guests.

For any enquires on Event Management Gold Coast, Corporate Events Gold Coast, and Conference and Incentives Days please call Jo. Jo can bring all her experience, passion and skill to the table to create a fresh and innovative partnership with you. Click here to get our ebrochure & download our PDF.

 Jo Kane

Events Gold Coast