Becoming an event planner is a big decision. Event planning is often ranked as one of the most stressful jobs in the world. Yet if you thrive in the event world, it can also be one of the most rewarding. So how do you know if becoming an event planner is the right career choice for you? Here are seven FAQs to see.
1. How Much Can I Expect to Make After Becoming an Event Planner?According to Payscale, the current average base salary for event planners is $56,232 per year. However, it’s important to remember that there’s a great deal of variation in the amount event planners make, depending on your location, years of experience, whether you have your own business, and other factors. In NYC, for example, the total salary range listed on Payscale for event planners varies from $51,000 to $189,000.
2. What Skills Do Event Planners Need?Becoming an event planner requires a number of different skills. You need to be able to communicate effectively with a variety of people and handle conflicts productively. Successful event planners are also usually well-organized, creative, great at networking, able to adapt easily to new technology, and comfortable in leadership roles. It’s also essential that you are able to work well under pressure and solve problems as they arise.
3. What Types of Events Do Event Planners Manage?Some NYC event planners specialize in specific types of events, while others manage multiple niche categories. As an event planner, you might work on a variety of events, including:
- Corporate parties
- Birthday parties
- Product launches
- Conferences
- Weddings
- Fundraisers
- Holiday parties
- Corporate retreats
There is no specific degree or certification required to become an event planner. However, some event-planning companies require college degrees. You may also find that becoming an event planner is easier if you have a business degree, particularly if you want to be self-employed. Additionally, several types of certification exist for event planners. While they are not required to become an event planner, they do set you apart from the crowd and help you gain a competitive advantage. Certifications that can be helpful for event planners include:
- Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)
- Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)
- Society of Government Meeting Professionals (CGMP)
- Certified Professional in Catering and Events (CPCE)
As an event planner, you are responsible for planning events from start to finish, along with finding new clients, ensuring guest satisfaction, and keeping track of financial statistics. Some tasks event planners engage in on a regular basis include:
- Finding sponsorships
- Discussing client goals
- Booking venues
- Maintaining a budget
- Hiring vendors
- Sending invitations
- Marketing the event
- Ensuring smooth operations during the event
- Resolving problems as they occur
- Following up to ensure client and guest satisfaction
Portfolios are a great way to show off your skills when becoming an event planner. Photos and testimonials are powerful components that help potential clients feel confident in your skills. If you don’t already have event-planning experience, you can build your portfolio by working with established event planners, volunteering with nonprofits, or reaching out to family and friends to ask if they need help planning their events. Even small-scale events show your talents, so get busy on creating a professional portfolio.
7. How Can I Begin Working as an Event Planner?Becoming an event planner can seem daunting at first. It sometimes feels hard to break into the business. However, there are some great strategies to help you land clients and begin working as an event planner. If you are open to working for an event-planning company, you can gain experience and build a reputation before setting out on your own. Alternatively, spend time networking with other event professionals to build partnerships. Make your portfolio available online, and reach out to potential clients. Finally, once you begin landing events, take lots of photos and keep detailed records so you can continue building your portfolio and attracting new clients to your business.
The Event Planner Expo 2024 offers an unparalleled opportunity to get in the room with top industry professionals, network with other event planners, and grow your business. If you’re thinking of pursuing a career as event planner, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to jump-start your career. Get your tickets today!
