7 Tips for Preparing to Become a Corporate Event Planner

Corporate events are one of the most common types of events that are organised around the world. Specifically, corporate events include a product launch, seminars, training, team-building, and conferences. During these events, companies and individuals are usually looking for opportunities to expand their network, which is why it’s a significant part of being in the business world.

Meanwhile, whether you’ve already had experience in corporate event planning and are now aiming to become a full-time planner, or it’s your first time organising one, it’s important to know what you need to prepare for.

In this article, we’ll discuss some tips on the things you should prepare to become a corporate event planner.

1. Understand the Role of a Corporate Event Planner

Before you become a full-time corporate event planner, you should first understand the role. Some of the most common responsibilities of corporate event planners include creating concepts and themes, arranging the timeline and schedules, managing budgets, working with vendors, and ensuring that the event runs smoothly on the day.

As you learn about the roles of being a corporate event planner, you can apply it to small events you manage at home or with your friends and colleagues. The more you practise, the easier it is to understand the essence of each role.

2. Gain Relevant Education and Training

Having an undergraduate degree isn’t a requirement for becoming a professional corporate event planner. Instead, you can take certifications and training to help you understand more about event planning.

Specifically, these certifications can help you get a background in event planning, marketing, hospitality management, business management, and communication. At first, you’ll get to know about the general way of handling events, but as you move forward, you can also learn about the corporate event planning strategies. Since corporate events can be too formal, there are some tips that you can get that aren’t available in the general curriculum.

3. Build Practical Experience

Aside from the things you can learn from applying what you understand to the small gathering you plan at home, you can also gain more experience by exploring other options. Some of these options include volunteering for fundraisers, community gatherings, and corporate events. In addition, you can apply for an internship in various companies, so that you can experience the real deal.

Another ideal option is to apply as an assistant to a professional corporate event planner, so you can experience what it feels like to be a part of the team behind it all. Additionally, you can get tips for the specific tasks you’re doing.

4. Develop Essential Skills

Whether you have already taken some certifications or not, developing skills is an essential part of the learning process of how to become a corporate event planner. Some of the key skills that corporate event planners should have include networking, negotiation, time management, crisis management, multitasking, and branding.

Without these skills, it can be hard even to start the planning process, so what's more, if it’s about the execution. In some instances, some people have the best planning skills, but it gets complicated when it’s time to execute the plans.

5. Stay Updated on Industry Trends

Being knowledgeable and experienced about corporate event planning may be a great foundation for a successful career, but you should also know how to adapt moving forward. Besides, the events industry continues to evolve. For instance, it was never perceived that hybrid events would work, but nowadays, it’s one of the most effective ways of ensuring that everyone can still be a part of the event even if they won’t be able to make it to the venue.

So, if you want to stay updated on the latest corporate event trends, follow experts on social media, attend training and seminars, and keep posted on the latest popular events.

6. Build Your Network

Networking is one of the most essential parts of being in the corporate event planning industry. It allows you to stay in touch and build relationships with caterers, venue managers, florists, lights and sounds studios, and clients.

And if these stakeholders get to see your ability to ensure the success of corporate events, you can gain their loyalty and get as many recommendations as possible.

7. Prepare for Launching the Business

If you’re planning to start the business alone, you should also prepare for the business operation part. It includes the business planning, registration, securing permits, hiring staff, looking for the best event planning app or software, and marketing your business on various social media platforms and outlets.

Final Thoughts

Becoming the best corporate event planner isn’t just about knowing the best decorations and planning strategies. You need to create a memorable experience for everyone who attends the event. By considering the tips in this article, you can gradually start achieving the status of one of the best corporate event planners.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Aliana Baraquio is a content writer for Pink Caviar Events Sydney, a full-service event management and decorative hire company located in Sydney. When she's not typing out blog posts, you can find her watching anime series or baking cupcakes.