How to Find a Job in Event Planning
Finding a job in event planning can include looking at the hospitality industry, non-profit sector and wedding industry, to name a few. Event planners organize and budget special occasions to the taste of the employer. They ensure guests feel comfortable and carry out the logistics of the event. Many event planners work freelance, but some work in companies for a salary. To find a job in this field, you may need to use a combination of the Internet and personal connections.
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Things You'll Need
- Resume
- References (three or more)
- Social media profile(s)
- Sample pictures of work
Instructions
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Compile references and tailor your resume to highlight the skills (i.e., hospitality experience at a hotel) required for the potential event planning job. In the absence of formal experience, mention skills (i.e., time management) when helping a friend plan her wedding. Request letters from people who can verify your character and hard-working attitude. Creativity and focus should be mentioned in reference letters as well. As for the resume, it should be one page in length and feature your most recent employment experience. Use keywords like "coordinated gatherings" and "budgeted luxury affairs" to get noticed.
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Include photos of past events that you helped orchestrate within a professional binder portfolio. You may need to intern or volunteer to handle events to build an impressive portfolio. The hospitality industry and non-profit organizations may be the best places to begin the search for hands-on experience. These two industries host plenty of events each year, and may be willing to allow a novice to help out with appropriate supervision.
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Emphasize budgeting skills and formal education training. It's more appealing to hire an event planner with skills in areas like finance and decorating. A college degree is not required for most positions, but is an added incentive for a manager to consider hiring you. Provide proof of any circumstances that show you were able to remain within budget and produce a quality affair.
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Differentiate your skills further with a professional certification. Obtain expertise and membership in an association that can offer job leads. For instance, you may train and obtain certification from the International Special Events Society (ISES) online through an annual membership. Local training can be found at colleges around the country as well.
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Market your job search interest strategically online. Social media accounts should be used to announce your job search in the event planning field. Connect with people looking to hire or already in the business for tips to find an opening. LinkedIn, Facebook and Craigslist are some of the foremost places online to seek jobs in event planning for free.
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Tips & Warnings
Become connected with businesses online that may require event planners and make relevant comments. Twitter is a great place to make brief statements for companies that you may desire to work for.
Work freelance to get experience and gain contacts for a permanent position.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit wedding image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
