Do you feel you have the “it factor” to rise in the event planning industry?
If you’re sure you do because your planning skills are up to par, you may be surprised to learn that having excellent organizational skills isn’t really that important in how you rank as an #eventprof.
Event planners in New York know that it takes a whole lot of "chutzpah" to stay relevant in the game. This type of career will test your level of resilience, your patience, your tolerance level, your inventiveness, and even your serenity.
So, what does it take to be the best in the biz?
The team at The Event Planner Expo is made up of owners, event managers, event strategists, and event marketers. After decades of experience and a combined effort of achievement we’ve learned what it takes and would now like to pay it forward.
In this post, we’re going to share the top event planning practices to help up and coming event planners in New York acquire the “it factor.”
Fundamental Event Planning Skills
You can read many articles on how to become the best event planner in New York and the typical suggestions are that you need to have:
- Organizational skills
- The ability to manage time
- Passion
- Flexibility
- People skills
….well, duh.
Those are the obvious components to become a good event planner. We’re not looking to show you how to be a “good” event planner. We’re looking to teach you how to be the best in the events industry and have the “it factor.”
The “It Factor” in Event Planning
In order to develop into a top event planner in New York, you must be able to know how to crack the whip when need be to fully carry out your client’s vision. That takes strong leadership skills to accomplish. That doesn’t mean you have to be tough as nails because you must know how to balance your boss behavior with interpersonal skills. No one wants to do business with a grump and in the events industry, the relationships you build are what helps you rise to the top.
That brings us to what will help you develop the “it factor.” Here are the top three suggested skills to build to be amongst the best event planners in New York:
Strategic Thinking – You must possess the ability to think strategically and contribute top-level dialogs with stakeholders. It’s imperative that you’re able to carry intelligent discussions about goals, ROI, metrics, solutions, and budgets. So, to become a senior planner, you must sharpen your strategic skillset.
Design Skills – When you familiarize yourself with innovative design concepts, visuals, image formats, etc. you’re placing yourself on a higher tier as an event planner in New York. Many #eventprofs work together with design suppliers to execute a vision, but you must also know the latest in design trends and ideas all while measuring staying within the allotted budget.
Cultural Ambassador – It is crucial that #eventprofs expand their cultural familiarity beyond the local spectrum. Knowing what the international trends are in terms of the latest in design, food, creative cocktails, will help set you aside from the norm and push your reputation to being one of the best in the biz. Just like fashionistas look towards the latest in Europe to know what will be heading towards the US in terms of fashion, the events industry is no different. You must know what’s debuting all over the world to be able to introduce new and creative concepts to your clients. Everyone wants to deliver a unique experience to their guests and it’s up to you to demonstrate to clients what exists out there.
In a Nutshell
Having organizational and people skills is just the basic assets to possess in event planning. But, in order to drive your career to the top, you must have the skills that will push your reputation above and beyond the rest. Gaining more insight in the latest technology, design perceptions, and international trends will help you develop the “it factor” while your sharp leadership qualities will place you at the forefront.
This year is packed with event conferences and expos worth your time and money. Looking for more information about the latest industry trends? Make sure to click here and read "The Latest in Event Design Trends."
