event planning jobs Archives

Using an Executive Search Company to Find Event Planning Jobs

May 22, 2013 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

cartoon of a man holding a job wanted sign in reference to event planning jobs

photo by www.ecenglish.com

If you’ve been searching for those ideal hospitality or event planning jobs, then you probably know firsthand just how frustrating the whole process can be. Even at the best of times, job hunting can be extremely nerve-racking. You spend an awful lot of your time networking hoping that you’ll find that perfect contact.

But, more times than not, you find out that talk is cheap.

It’s Not That There Aren’t Good Hospitality and Event Planning Jobs out There

By now you’re getting pretty sick and tired of hearing how this economic downturn keeps dragging on and on. It almost feels like this is the new norm. But, with the right focus, your job hunting efforts may not be fruitless.

Executive search companies might be just the contact that you need. They can help lessen the stress of finding a new career.

Three Key Reasons to Use an Executive Search Company When Looking for Event Planning Jobs

Integrity. To them, reputation is everything. These companies need to set the highest standards possible as their very existence is dependent on it. No company will associate with a search company that does not, at the very least, match their service levels.

Client Research. An executive search company has done their homework. They’ve done the networking and they know what companies are looking for when they have job openings. On the other side, they also make sure that any individuals that they put forward to a potential employer is qualified.

Results. Who doesn’t love results. Executive search companies put their reputations on the line each and every day. They have to stand behind the candidates that they present. And that goes beyond the hire date. They stay involved in the process long after the position has been filled.

Global Hospitality Search Consultants Ltd. is a search firm that focuses exclusively in the placement of hospitality industry managers and executives worldwide. As a disclosure note, I’ve been made aware of this company by a colleague that teaches at a college in Toronto. But, the reason I’m singling out this particular company is to showcase their focus on the hospitality industry (it also helps that they have offices in both the United States and Canada).

Looking for Event Planning Jobs-Two Tips for Selecting the Right Executive Search Company

Always do your due diligence when considering working with a third-party. That holds true when considering an executive search company. Here are two tips to factor into your decision making process:

Industry Knowledge. Select a search company that specializes in your industry. You want one that knows the specifics of your job description.

References. I know this sounds like a no-brainer, but always ask for references. Any reputable company will have no problem whatsoever in providing you with references. At networking events, ask your colleagues to provide you with a couple of companies that you can contact.

Working with an executive search company to find event planning jobs can help take the stress out of the process. It’s not to say that you won’t have to sell yourself. It’s just that search companies specialize in understanding their clients’ needs and matching that with potential candidates.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: event planning jobs, eventplanning, eventprofs, Hospitality

3 common misconceptions of event planners

March 27, 2013 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

frazzled event planners I am often asked how to become an event planner. It seems, to the outside world, that event planners have a glamorous job. I’m not saying that event planning jobs are not rewarding. What I usually tell those interested is that there is a lot more to the job than what you see.

Most of my online, and off line, life involves interacting and communicating with existing event planners. However when I’m not working I’m always surprised at the impression that many people have regarding event planning jobs. The most common feedback that I receive is that an event planner leads a glamorous life. If only.

In the last couple of weeks I have made it a point to ask people their perception of event planners. While I wasn’t surprised (much of the feedback was very similar to my own family members) the exercise did make me realize that there are a lot of people out there that do not have a clue what an event planner really does in their day-to-day work life.

3 Misconceptions That the Public Has Towards Event Planners

Event planning is a glamorous job. I guess if people hear that you attend a lot of evening events at popular venues, they assume that you’re having a great time socializing with superb food and beverage. Again, if only. What many people fail to recognize is that a good event planner is doing anything but socializing during an event. While they may appear calm, cool and collective, behind the scenes they are constantly double checking the program and ensuring all aspects of the event are being executed properly. And we’re not even talking about the pre-planning component of the job here.
“I’m great at planning social events for my family, so I would make a great event planner”. People generally think that the role of an event planner is to have fun. Take it from me, it is very hard work. Your client is depending on your contacts and expertise in order for their event to proceed seamlessly. There’s a big difference between volunteering to organize a friend or family event and event planning for your career. For one, there’s no putting things aside and saying you’ll get to it later on. When the going gets tough, the event planner is expected to work through to a solution. When people tell me they love to plan events outside of work, I usually make a point of informing them of all aspects of an event planners workload.
Event planners are only for high-end events. I’ve even had potential clients tell me that they could not afford an event planner. I’m sure I had a perplexed look on my face when I was told that. You see, many times an event planner can actually execute an event and save you money at the same time. A seasoned event planner knows how to negotiate with suppliers and venues in order to get you the best possible venue and event. And because they often book spaces multiple times, they can be in a position to receive discounts that they can pass along to their clients.

Event planning is a rewarding career. Like all industries, it’s best if the individual is passionate about their job. There are, however, many misconceptions about what event planners do. Many people that are not in the industry assume that an event planner socializes and attends popular venues. What they don’t realize is the behind-the-scene work that’s involved in planning and executing events.

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: event planner, event planning jobs, eventplanning, eventprofs

Finding Event Planning Jobs-the Dreaded Interview! (Comedy Video)

August 31, 2012 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

photo by huffingtonpost.co.uk

Even though we still have one full month of summer left, if you’re like me, you still get that back to school feeling (even though, I’m embarrassed to say this, I’ve been out of school for 30 years). September has that newness feeling to it. It’s often a time where we commit to starting fresh projects. Which leads us to the subject of today’s post; event planning jobs and those awful interviews.

Many of you may be looking at September as a fresh start to a new career. If you’re in the business of event planning, then no doubt part of that job search is approaching event planning companies to see what jobs are available or perhaps to see if they may have some event planning internships. But, there’s no way around it, you’ll need to have an interview.

Interviewing for Event Planning Jobs Can Be Very Frustrating to Say the Least

Have you ever gone to an interview where the person that is supposedly interviewing you doesn’t really know how to do that properly? I know I have and I have literally cringed. I’ve had experiences where the interviewer gets off topic and starts talking about how great they are. Or the person gives you such a horrific description of the job that they are interviewing for that you can barely contain yourself. And maybe some of you have actually got up and ran away as fast as you could. Or at least wanted to.

In the video below, compliments of our friends at Funny or Die, we take a look at a very famous person, Renée Zellweger, as she interviews for a potential babysitter. As I was watching this video I couldn’t help but relate to having been in such interviews. I can laugh about it now but during the interviews I would’ve been just as happy trying to eat my arm off. At least it would’ve taken my mind off the interviewer…

Job interview with Renee Zellweger from Renee Zellweger

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: careers, comedy, event planning jobs, eventplanning, eventprofs, video

What Resources Do You Use When Looking for Event Planning Jobs?

July 11, 2012 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

finding event planning jobs using social media

photo by globalgoodgroup.com

So, if you’re reading this blog, you are probably one of the many people out there that utilizes social media in your daily routine. And, if you’re reading this, there may be a chance that you’re also looking at what job opportunities are available in the event planning industry. It’s no secret that we are still struggling to get our economy rolling again. However, that’s not to say that there are no event planning jobs available. Whether you’re looking for a job in NYC, Chicago, Philadelphia or Timbuktu, social media can be a great medium to utilize for your search. However, with this economy, it does mean is that you have to become a little smarter and perhaps quicker than the next guy.

You Use Social Media to Interact, Why Don’t You Use It for Job Hunting

Part of the reason why I’m writing this post today is that I had a recent encounter during a networking event. The person that I was speaking with has had considerable experience in the meetings and event industry. She was also looking for a new job. It struck me as odd when I asked her what resources she was utilizing for her job search and social media wasn’t mentioned. The reason it struck me as odd is that this person was very adept at social media and was using it for other aspects of her job tasks. And using it rather correctly as well I might add. So I asked why she wasn’t considering her various social media accounts for her job search. I got a puzzled look in return.

From my networking conversation I then reached out to many of my colleagues who had changed jobs within the last 2 to 3 years. I asked them how they went about finding their new careers. I was surprised at how few utilize social media for their job search.

Here Are A Few Simple Techniques That You Can Employ When Searching for Careers on Social Media:

Twitter. Login to your twitter account and simply enter job opportunities in the search field. The return will provide you with suggested followers that are involved in career placement. There are many to choose from. Of course make sure you take the time and ensure that people you start to follow are relative to the event planning industry.

Facebook. Very similar to the way that you searched in Twitter. Here’s an example of pages that I was presented with when I entered the search term “job opportunities”. A hint here is to look for how many likes the pages have (in addition to the industry that they are representing). Not that pages have to have a lot of likes to be reputable, however, it does say a bit about their longevity.

LinkedIn. Very simply, when you login to LinkedIn select the category “jobs” from the top of the page. From there, can narrow your search for the type of event planning job were seeking. You can also set up LinkedIn to present reminders and updates it is a nifty little feature.

So for any of you that are considering event planning jobs, I strongly suggest you turn your search to your social media accounts. You will be surprised with the outcome.

Event Planning Jobs-Where to Start? (plananevent.org)
What Makes Event Planning Companies Great? One Word, Integrity (plananevent.org)
5 Best Uses of Twitter at Conferences (plananevent.org)
Social Media Use Can Help You Get Promoted (mpiweb.org)

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: event planning jobs, event planning resources, eventprofs

Event Planning Jobs-Where to Start?

June 13, 2012 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

photo by canadianspecialevents.com

This is the time of year when many meetings and conferences are underway. Shortly, there’ll be a lull as the bigger associations and conferences take a bit of a break in the middle of the summer. By break I mean that they won’t necessarily be meeting but the event planners will be very busy coordinating and orchestrating the upcoming fall conferences. No doubt many of you are wondering what jobs will be available in the industry this year. If you follow the 24-hour news cycle, well then let’s just say you must be worried sick. First things first. Turn off those news channels. While I’m slightly joking here, the meetings and events industry is still hiring. You just have to be smart as to where to begin your job search.

Consider Event Planning Internships to Get Your Foot in the Door

Of course networking can play a vital role when seeking employment. By networking, you meet potential contacts in a non-threatening environment. However use networking properly. Don’t jump into discussions about opportunities available etc. Rather, develop a bit of a relationship or rapport and the opportunities will tend to materialize from there. Internships are another great way to get your foot in the door. Typically internships are awarded to students or graduates that are entering the industry. But, don’t rule them out altogether even if you have been in the industry for some time and are just seeking a career change.

Social media plays a vital role today in the meetings and events industry. There are a couple of social media sites that stand out for their role in promoting industry jobs.

LinkedIn. There are many groups that have been created in LinkedIn for the sole purpose of promoting jobs. In fact I was so impressed with LinkedIn’s “jobs you may be interested in” widget that I added it to a related site, Welcome To The City. If you are logged in to your LinkedIn account and you come across their widget, it tailors the jobs it displays to you based on your account’s preferences. Certainly worth checking out. I would also suggest that you spend a little bit of time on LinkedIn searching for groups that deal with employment opportunities and then join those groups.

Twitter. On twitter, there are countless accounts that deal only with job opportunities. If you start following these accounts you’ll get updated opportunities delivered directly to your feed. Click here to see a list of twitter accounts that deal with job opportunities.

Is Now the Right Time to Become Certified?

Employers, when hiring people, look at the person’s skill set and education first and foremost. While the job of an event planner doesn’t necessarily require specific certification, a recent study by PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) indicated planners with event planning certification were paidhigher than those without. As I have always stated, it is never a bad idea to invest in yourself. Potential employers will typically interview those that have industry certification before those who do not.

There are event planning jobs in the industry today. While they may not necessarily be all that visible, they are still there. You have to become diligent and be smart about where to look for the job you are searching for. And even though you may be using social media to make first contact, it never hurts to be old-fashioned and pick up the telephone to make sure that they have received your information.

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: careers, event planning, event planning certification, event planning internships, event planning jobs, event planning resources

How to Go about Finding Party Planning Jobs

November 9, 2011 By Andrew Maxwell Comments

So you have found that you’re good at planning parties for your friends. So much so that you’re the “go to person” whenever anyone in your circle is planning a party or event. Have you considered taking your love of party planning and translating that into a dream job? If so then you might just be a great candidate for event and party planning.

But where do you find the event and party planning jobs? The answer may not be as difficult as you think.

Consider Applying for Party Planning Jobs at Places Where You Have Purchased Party Planning Supplies

A great place to start looking for event or party planning jobs are party supply stores or decor companies. A lot of these positions are considered retail so they may not be looking for experienced party planners. Rather they may be looking for somebody with enthusiasm and someone that’ll be great with customers. Consider these stores as a great way to get introduced to the requirements of the job and to get training for later in your career.

Destination management companies, or DMC‘s as they are commonly referred to, are also companies that would utilize party planning. For DMC’s I would suggest that you contact your local convention and visitors bureau for list of DMC’s in your local area. Look for ones that have a few staff members (a lot if DMC’s are home based business and may not have the capacity to hire you full item).

Nightclubs, attractions, popular restaurants and major venues (such as museums) are also areas that would hire event and party planners. Most of these suppliers have event planning departments that handle group requests. These organizations are an excellent way to learn about party planning as they have very established guidelines for executing group events.

If party and event planning is a major passion then finding a party planning job isn’t too difficult to initiate. Just be aware that you will most likely have to start in an entry level position. But if it truly is a passion then you shouldn’t be bothered by working your way up the ladder. After all in order to become a great party planner you really do have to learn all the ropes. Party and event planning jobs come in all shapes and sizes ranging from retail stores, event planning companies and destination management companies to nightclub, restaurants and attractions – all of which hire in-house staff to organize and execute events and parties.

Event Planning Firms – What to Look for When Hiring (plananevent.org)
Party Planning Business – Is this the Biz for You? (plananevent.org)
Non-Event Event Planning (plananevent.org)
Today There Still Are Ways to Make Profits in the Event Planning Business (plananevent.org)

Filed Under: Planning Parties Tagged With: CVB, Destination Management Company, event planning, event planning jobs, party planning, party planning jobs

Event Planning Jobs…Interview Don’ts!

October 26, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of hartboy on flickr

Really, who out there gets excited at the thought of another round of pounding the pavement and looking for a new job? That’s exactly what I thought, not so many hands are raised!

There are lots of informative blogs out there (including ours, of course) that provide countless scenarios regarding event planning jobs. There are various different and adaptable positions in the conference, meeting and event planning industry. The usual suspects are out there as well as some of the more unique jobs and opportunities.

But with any job interview, you have to sell yourself, your capabilities and why you are the best candidate for the job. It doesn’t matter what age or stage in life you’re at, whether 25 or 45, job interviews can be incredibly intimidating. There is definitely a standard we all strive to reach. Right?! We have to look a certain way, talk a certain way and be able to fearlessly put ourselves out there.

When interviewing for event planning jobs, there are lots of dos but there are so many more don’ts. In the video below we get a glimpse, and a chuckle or two, at some of the dubious don’ts.

Event Planning Jobs – Back to Basics (plananevent.org)
Event Planning Jobs (plananevent.org)
I Want to be an Event Planner – How Much Does the Job Pay? (plananevent.org)

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: comedy, comedy video, event planning, event planning jobs, funny video, job interview

Event Planning Jobs – Back to Basics

October 15, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of orkomedix on flickr

The success of any event or meeting is dependent on every member of your team. It’s crucial that everyone, from the event planner to the front line staff, all be on the same page. The knowledge that everyone has a single goal, to ensure the success of the event, will go a long way.

We’ve spoken about the importance of front line staff before. You can plan the most amazing event, creative, fun and informative. But if your front line staff are bored, lackadaisical and just don’t give a damn, it doesn’t matter how much planning has gone into it. Generally, your on site staff spend the most time with your attendees. So they can truly make, or break, your event.

Event Planning Jobs – Going Back to the Beginning

I know a head chef at a very trendy, chi chi restaurant. He once told me that every couple of months he pulls a few shifts as sous chef at a friend’s restaurant. He said that this reminds him of where he came from and helps him keep his perspective. And recently I had the opportunity to do something similar.

A friend was planning a very high end meeting in her own city (not mine). Although fairly small (about 150 attendees) no cost was being spared and she refused to have anyone on her team that she didn’t know personally. The contract was just too sensitive (and far too lucrative) to take any chances. When she asked if I would be willing to work the event as on site staff, I jumped at the chance. I knew the opportunity would give me the chance to see, and work with, an old and dear friend. But I was also looking forward to reminding myself, as per my chef friend, of where I started in the business.

Event Planning Jobs – Back in Black (Pants and White Shirt)

It was a really interesting week. I reminded myself on the flight down that I was there to do a job, but not my normal job. And while I would go above and beyond to help ensure the program was a success, I would not step over the line. This was not my program.

During the week my duties were varied. I was involved in several different areas and on my feet, and on the run, from the early hours to the end of each very late night. I was part of a team that covered meet and greets, transportation, registration desks and more. I interacted pretty much all day with the attendees and got to know several of them very well.

I think I forgot what it was like to be “on” all day, every day. And in spite of extremely long days (nothing new there), it was imperative that we set the tone. Nothing is more infectious than a negative mood and we strove to ensure we were friendly and approachable while maintaining a professional manner.

Event Planning Jobs – Being Friendly…Without Being Too Friendly

Personally, I have always maintained a rule that staff should not be socializing with the attendees. It can cause confusion and, even on their own time, can reflect on both you and your client. It’s a tricky line to walk but I think that it complicates things if your staff is out partying with the attendees. It’s always best to keep work and play separate.

Well, I have a renewed respect for my staff who are able to walk that line without falling! This was a very fun group and incredibly social. To make things more difficult, that program itself was very little work and lots of play. The attendees wanted to keep trying to include the staff in the party like atmosphere. We kept the appropriate distance without insulting the attendees…not as easy it sounds!

Event Planning Jobs – Going Outside of the Comfort Zone

All in all I had a great, and exhausting, time. I really appreciated the opportunity to see my friend at work. She has a flair for the creative and always has something new and interesting up her sleeve. I learned a few things and look forward to implementing my own take on some of her ideas.

Although more tiring than I expected, I had a great time working. I loved not having to worry about every little detail, and just concentrating on the tasks at hand. But I was reminded of what a great job our on site staff do. They are expected to be “on” and present, constantly and consistently. They have to be friendly, informative, professional, approachable, organized and energetic. All without being perky. And not just for an hour or two, but for the duration of the entire program!

Don’t be afraid to step outside the box and do something a little but different. Whether it’s for one hour, one day or an entire program, going “front line” is a great way to remind yourself that there’s a lot more to your event than just the details.

Event Planning Jobs (plananevent.org)
Event Planning Jobs – So Many Jobs to Consider (plananevent.org)
Event Planning in these…um…..”Challenging Times” (plananevent.org)

Filed Under: Planning An Event Tagged With: event planner, event planning, event planning jobs, front line staff, on site staff

Event Planning Jobs – So Many Jobs to Consider

October 5, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of Shershe on flickr

Over the last couple of decades the event/ conference/meeting planning industry has exploded. In every major city (and smaller ones) there are hundreds, if not thousands, of companies that specialize in event planning. And though Event (or Party) Planner is the job most well known to the general public, there are so many different roles to consider.

Event Planning Jobs – What Can I Expect?

As anyone in the business knows, when you tell people that you’re an event planner, the response is generally “Wow, that must be a lot of fun!” And frankly, it is. Most of the time. But like any other career path, it’s not all fun and games. And it’s certainly not always a party.

Those who are new to the industry are always struck by how much HARD work goes into planning an event. The details, the long hours, and the stress (oh the stress!) are part and parcel with what we do. But so is the fun, the excitement and the satisfaction of seeing an event go off without a hitch.

Event Planning Jobs – What’s Out There?

For many looking at entering the industry, Event Planner is the goal. To be the person who organizes and creates the event is what seems like the most challenging and the most fun. But it takes a lot more people than just a planner to execute any event.

Here are a few ways to get your foot in the door of an exciting industry.

Event Coordinator – An Event Coordinator is the on site eyes and ears for the Event Planner. Planners usually have multiple groups, at different stages, at any given time. It would take someone who requires no sleep, no life and the ability to clone themselves and be in several places at once to do without an Event Coordinator.

An EC usually runs things on site. Ensures that all of the suppliers show up, that entertainment is there, the caterers are serving the correct food and on site staff are doing what they should be. A solid Event Coordinator is essential to any successful event team.

On Site Staff – A more general position, on site staff are quite literally that, the front line staff. Some Planners can be a little short sighted, thinking that their on site staff positions can be filled with just about anyone. NOT TRUE!! Your on site staff are the ones that interact with your attendees more than anyone else. There is a certain comfort for both clients and attendees to see the same staff throughout a program. It allows them to build a relationship with the clients and attendees alike.

On site staff can cover a plethora of duties for you. They do airport meet and greets, oversee the transportation, cover registration desks and so much more.

Tour Guides – There are several different categories for Tour Guides. Some guides do long haul tours that involve being with the group for several days. They’re responsible for everything and any little problem that happens is their job to fix. In addition to having to be knowledgeable and aware of the areas that the tour group will be visiting, if there are luggage, health or hotel issues, it is the tour guide’s responsibility.

Many tour guides work out of their own city and it is their responsibility to create the tour (or tours) they will be leading. It requires a working knowledge of the city as well having done at the very least a dry run or two before taking the group out. Many tour guides work on a contract basis and therefore have the option of who they are working for and when.

As with any industry, there are tons of different jobs out there in the business. You just need to decide what interests you and go for it!

Event Planning Jobs (plananevent.org)
Event Planners Association (plananevent.org)
The Best Places to Find Event Planning Careers (plananevent.org)

Filed Under: Tools & Guides Tagged With: career change, event coordinator, event planning, event planning jobs, on site staff, tour guide

Event Planning Jobs

September 22, 2011 By Randy Markus Comments

Photo courtesy of enriqueburgosgarcia on flickr

Be honest. Do you hate going to work? More and more as each day, week or month goes by? Are you feeling the struggle, and frustration, more and more? Do you believe your strengths are best suited in another atmosphere? Can you utilize your “powers” differently? Well then, it may be time for a change!

Do you have the knack for event planning and all that it includes? And if you are actually looking to make a career change there are so many different event planning jobs out there to accommodate a switch.

Usually when one thinks event planning jobs we automatically figure the only option is event planner. But really there are so many more opportunities out there to think about and consider.

Event Planning Jobs – A Real Variety!

Triumph in the event planning world really does take a village. No one person, or position, can complete all the tasks required for victory. In actuality, there is a real variety of event planning jobs out there to consider that can and will fill any niche. First and foremost, when talking about event planning jobs is the Event Planner.

Event Planner – Is an individual who skilfully designs and plans events, parties and social gatherings on a professional level. When setting out to accomplish the responsibilities of the job, it is imperative for an event planner to know the purpose, ideas and goals, as well as the course of action to take in an effort to achieve success. An event planner oversees all of the components of event and meeting agendas. All work starts and finishes with the event planner. There is a huge emphasis on budget forecasting and budgeting, hiring and managing staff, program planning and execution, marketing and organization.

Event Coordinator – This position is directly involved in the coordinating and execution of events and meetings. The event coordinator works very closely with the Event Planner to ensure the successful organization, management and implementation of internal and external programs. Work will flow from the event planner and the EC’s responsibilities mirror those of the event planner.

Administrative Event Planning Assistant – This position supports and assists the Event Planner and Event Coordinator in countless ways. The proverbial right hand person. It is the responsibility, from an administration perceptive, of this position to assist, organize and help with the planning and implementation of logistics and the over-all execution of events and meetings. In addition, the Administrative Event Planning Assistant is responsible for, but not limited to, handling general administration, telephone coverage, and site support and office organization.