Turn Your Planning Passion into a Career

Picture this: Singapore, 1995, the iconic Raffles Hotel. Over gin slings, my mentor - French marketing professor Dominique Xardel - asks me a question that would change my career trajectory: 'Have you ever considered turning your talent for organizing into a profession?'

Until then, I was just the friend everyone called for party planning help, the go-to person for wedding coordination advice. But a week of helping Professor Xardel promote an MBA program across Hong Kong and Singapore had revealed something I hadn't seen myself - I had a knack for the logistics of events. True to his academic nature, he followed up by sending me books about this growing industry. Less than a year later, when an acquaintance mentioned a professional conference organizer was seeking a project manager, I jumped at the opportunity.

That was 29 years ago, and what a journey it's been! The events industry has transformed dramatically since those early days, offering more diverse and exciting career paths than ever before. In this week's newsletter, we'll explore five dynamic ways you can turn your passion for planning into a thriving career.

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What do I love about events? No two events are ever the same, of course. Even when working with the same client year after year, their needs and expectations evolve. Or the technology evolves. If you're the go-to person among your friends for planning parties or the first call when someone gets engaged, you might have a natural talent for event planning. Why don’t you do it for a living?

Let's take a look at five career paths where your planning skills could really shine:

1. Event Planner

Event planners are the backbone of our industry, handling everything from conventions and trade shows to concerts and fundraisers. What's especially exciting right now is how the role has expanded to include virtual and hybrid events. You might work for a venue like a convention center, a government agency such as a convention and visitors bureau, or you could work for an event agency.

While a bachelor's degree is typically required, an event planning certificate can give your application a significant boost, especially if your degree is in an unrelated field. Your practical skills and ability to juggle multiple priorities are what really count.

2. Venue Manager

Venue managers have one of the most stable roles in our industry, as they oversee all events at a specific location, whether it's a concert hall, convention center, or a hotel. They're responsible for everything that happens within their venue's walls, from managing event staff to handling the financial aspects of each event. What makes this role particularly interesting is how venue managers need to adapt their spaces for different types of events – one day it might be a corporate conference, the next a wedding reception.

While a bachelor's degree is typically required, combining it with an event planning certificate can help you stand out from other candidates, particularly if you're new to the industry. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential.

3. Wedding Planner

Wedding planners help couples navigate one of the most important days of their lives. You might work independently, for a hotel or resort, or even for a bridal store. Or you can be an independent wedding planner. The role involves coordinating everything from catering and music to flowers and timing. For destination weddings, you'll also handle travel arrangements and local vendor relationships.

While formal education requirements are more flexible in this field, having event planning certification or hospitality training can give you a significant advantage in building your career.

4. Corporate Planner

Corporate planners specialize in business events, which can include anything from conferences and team-building events to product launches and exhibitions. What makes this role unique is the focus on achieving specific business objectives through events.

You'll need to understand both event logistics and business goals to succeed. Strong budgeting skills are essential, as corporate events often come with strict financial parameters. This role is perfect for those who combine creativity with business acumen, and it's accessible to those with backgrounds in events or PR.

5. Charity Events Manager

Charity events managers play a crucial role in non-profit organizations, creating events that raise both funds and awareness. Working directly within a charity, you'll organize various types of events throughout the year, from online fundraisers to in-person galas, from food distribution drives to charity walkathons. What makes this role particularly rewarding is seeing how your event planning skills directly contribute to important causes.

Strong organizational and project management skills are essential, as is the ability to work within often limited budgets. This role is ideal for those who want to combine their love of events with making a positive impact.

The event industry continues to evolve, embracing new technologies and trends while maintaining the fundamental importance of bringing people together. Whether you're just starting out or looking to shift careers, these paths offer different ways to apply your planning talents professionally.

For those interested in exploring these careers further, I recommend starting with entry-level positions or internships in your area of interest. Or you could volunteer at your favorite charity, and help them at their next fundraiser.

Consider enrolling in an event management course to gain a deeper understanding of the knowledge needed to work effectively in the event industry. Each of these roles offers unique challenges and rewards, and there's always room for growth as you gain experience and develop your skills.

Have questions about getting started in events? Leave a message in the comment section below – I'm always happy to help guide newcomers in our dynamic industry.

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