How to move into event management?
The expert panel
Our expert panel comprises representatives from the Hotel and Catering Training Company (HCTC), MaydayExec, Bartlett Mitchell, Learnpurple, Conran and Portfolio International
The question
I'm 23. I have three-and-a-half years of operational experience and currently work as a reservations operator at a hotel booking agent. I want to move into event management, but how?
You will need to identify what type of events market you would like to move into. You need to consider whether you would like to work in a hotel environment, an outside catering operation or a venue.
Generally your current skills will be transferable, as you have an idea of how an event is run. You need to capitalise on this, ensuring your CV highlights your skills.
Most event management positions require candidates with excellent selling skills, so ask yourself the question: "Do you enjoy sales?" Most clients when interviewing for an events post will be asking the question to themselves.
While the event market is difficult to break into, most companies require junior event administrators and would consider taking people on with no actual previous experience. Definitely explore this option, as once you have a foot in the door, opportunities will present themselves.
David Goldfarb, director, MaydayExec
Think about the skills you use, together with particular achievements in your career to date that match the needs of event management. Highlight these on your CV, even if they are not the primary focus of your current role. You can also refer to any projects or modules on event management that were part of your college course.
Your next step should be to contact employers. Many of the larger national employers run trainee manager programmes.
There are also many event management companies that work independently of specific venues, and some of the larger public relations and marketing agencies employ staff who specialise in corporate events.
Go to www.yell.com to find out about companies operating in your area.
Johnny Johnson, communications manager, HCTC
Each week our expert panel will answer your career questions. If you'd like to submit a question, send it to chris.druce@rbi.co.uk.
