Becoming an Event Organiser

Big events don't just happen. Behind every successful promotional or corporate event stands an exhausted but happy event organiser. If you're looking for a career change and you've got good organisational skills and multi-tasking abilities, you might want to take a closer look at this job.

Job Role

An event organiser is responsible for putting together all the behind-the-scenes details connected with a large event, corporate meeting or exhibition. Work responsibilities will include initial meetings with the client to gather ideas and to determine budget and timings. Following that, as an event organiser you will usually investigate different venues and locate suppliers.

The event organiser is also responsible for negotiating with various contractors, such as those who supply catering or security services. It will also be your job to coordinate the marketing of the event. Finally, when the big day arrives, you will do whatever is required to make sure that everything runs smoothly and within relevant regulations.

Qualifications and Skills

The good news for those seeking a career change to this type of job is that the role requires no particular qualifications. It would be extremely beneficial and a good opportunity to highlight your relevant experience and Transferable Skills. Several organisers already at work in the industry have pointed out that a degree is less important than personality. But bear in mind that you will have an edge over other candidates if you have college-level training in events management, marketing or public relations.

Prospective employers may look for practical experience in areas like hotel conferencing, travel or public relations. If you haven't had the opportunity to do this sort of work for pay, you could build contacts through volunteering or organising events in your personal or social life. Also, learning a second European language would be a definite plus point. Apprenticeships are available in some areas.

To be a successful event organiser, you will need excellent communication and people skills, and have a knack for solving problems creatively. If working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines are a problem for you, you may want to reconsider. You will probably be working a lot on your own, but at times you may be part of a larger team. You should possess good attention to detail and be able to work within a budget.

Employment Routes

Possible employers include event management companies, conference and exhibition venues, hotels, leisure facilities or charities. Large companies, universities and local governments also need event organisers. Once you gain some experience and a good track record, you could also work as a Freelance Organiser. Although most of your work will be done in an office, you'll undertake some travelling as you may often need to visit different venues, suppliers and clients. Most of the time you'll be working normal hours, but as the deadlines for your events approach, you may be working round-the-clock. And remember, it's possible you'll be planning multiple events at one time, each with their own deadlines and schedules.

Networking

If you're interested in a career change to the world of events organising, spend some time Talking To People already in the profession. Perhaps you can arrange to shadow them as they work for a few days, which would allow for a much better feel for what the job is really like. This in turn would prove beneficial and noteworthy, as you'll also be a much more knowledgeable job candidate if you choose to move ahead into this area.

Being an event organiser is certainly not easy nor is it stress-free. But when an event comes together successfully, knowing that you're the one who made it happen gives you an unparalleled sense of accomplishment.

Other Career Options

Another career that requires similar skills to those of an event organiser is a wedding planner. Find out more in our feature How To Become A Wedding Planner on this site.