So, you’ve thought about it long and hard enough and have decided that event planning is your calling. You love hosting parties with your friends and family and have a keen since of style. Also, you’re an extrovert and love conversations and helping others achieve their goals. So many individuals don’t realize there are more steps to take in order to start event planning outside of just family and friend get-togethers. Below are some things to consider if you want to start a career in event planning.
While in College
- Create a network of meaningful connections
- It’s important to make connections with peers because they may hire you to host events in the future, or refer you to coordinate with other associates through WOM ( Word of Mouth marketing).
- Get involved with clubs and organization on campus
- By taking on leadership roles. You’re gaining first-hand experience in your field, which prepares you for real-world experience. You’re also building relationships and making connections with possible customers. Many of my peers continued working with me after college.
- Make a portfolio of event and stay organized
- You may need those to help you with future gigs.
Pre/Post-Graduation
- Keep making connections
- Creating keep partnerships with individuals in the industry like promotors, DJs and etc.
- Don’t trash everything.
- You’ll need things to help you along or remind you how to solve a problem. (Hence, it was important to take clear notes and keep them organized).
During Your Career
- Work on gaining experience
- Make sure you’re following your guts instincts and Never work for free unless for charitable causes. It’s standard that you’ll need couple of years of experience to become more fluent, and don’t be scared to make mistakes because nothing can be 100% full proof. Practice, Practice and more Practice. Tip: Remember event planning is a gig profession and there are highs and lows, make sure to budget your finances accordingly.
Those are the basic tips for those looking to start a career in event planning.
For more career advice visit Corporate Minority Career Insights page.
