Events specialists plan all aspects of a special ocassion.
Many people hire an event specialist or event planner to save themselves time, energy and money. If you have a flair for planning memorable events, you might consider a career as an event specialist. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, those who planned meetings and events earned a median annual salary of $44,000 in 2008.
Types
As an event specialist, you will plan events that are social or businesses related. You may have interest in planning events for celebrations, such as weddings, birthdays, anniversaries or reunions. If you specialize in education-related events, you will plan conferences, meetings or graduations. A specialty in corporate events means you'll plan conventions or meetings. You may work for a corporation, hotel, banquet facility or event-planning firm. Once you gain enough experience, you may consider starting your own event planning business.
Duties
A job as an event specialist requires a lot of research. You will consult with clients to find out what overall look and feel they would like for their event. You may need to make yourself familiar with different customs and etiquette to do appropriate planning. When visiting different venues, you will judge the overall attractiveness and suitability. You will be responsible for coordinating arrangements for food, beverages, decorations, musicians, serving staff, speakers and photographers. You may have to present a proposal to a superior or a client for final approval before putting all of the plans in motion.
Environment
As an event specialist, you will spend a great deal of time in an office making phone calls and planning the logistics of an event. Travel may be necessary, especially if you specialize in planning conventions or destination weddings. Your job will require that you coordinate several tasks at one time and meet deadlines. At times you'll encounter clients who are difficult and demanding. Work hours can be long, especially during the period leading up to an event. During an event, you may have to work long days and weekends. Some aspects of the job require physical stamina, since you may have to walk or stand for long periods or carry supplies to the venue.
Background
Event specialists may have education or work experience in many different fields. Some have backgrounds as administrative assistants and may have planned smaller events before moving into larger events as a specialist. Others accumulate experience working in sales and marketing in a hotel. Some employees look for candidates who have a bachelor's degree in marketing, public relations, communications, business or hospitality. If you are in college and plan a career as an event specialist, gain work experience by volunteering to plan events for clubs and organizations.
Considerations
Meeting Professional International's website provides a list of colleges and universities that offer certificate or degree programs for event planning or management. MPI and the International Special Events Society offer certification as a special events professional or certified meeting planner. These designations may indicate to employers and clients that you have the training and knowledge to plan their meetings and events successfully.
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