WHAT IS AN manager special events jobs
A manager special events job is a unique and exciting career path that involves planning, organizing, and executing various special events. These events can range from corporate conferences and trade shows to weddings, parties, and charity fundraisers. The role of a manager special events is to ensure that every aspect of the event runs smoothly, from the initial planning stages to the final execution. This job requires a high level of organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION
In a manager special events position, you will be responsible for a wide range of tasks and responsibilities. Some of the key duties include:
- Planning and coordinating all aspects of the event, including venue selection, catering, logistics, and entertainment.
- Managing budgets and ensuring that all expenses are within the allocated budget.
- Collaborating with clients and stakeholders to understand their specific event objectives and requirements.
- Hiring and managing a team of event staff, including vendors, contractors, and volunteers.
- Overseeing event setup, execution, and breakdown, ensuring that everything is running smoothly and according to plan.
- Handling any issues or emergencies that may arise during the event, such as technical difficulties or guest complaints.
- Conducting post-event evaluations and gathering feedback to improve future events.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR POSITION
To excel in a manager special events role, there are several key skills that are highly valued in the industry. These skills include:
- Excellent organizational skills: As a manager special events, you will be juggling multiple tasks and deadlines, so strong organizational skills are essential to keep everything on track.
- Attention to detail: From managing budgets to coordinating logistics, attention to detail is vital to ensure that no aspect of the event is overlooked.
- Strong communication skills: You will be working with clients, vendors, and event staff, so effective communication is crucial to convey information clearly and ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Problem-solving abilities: Events can be unpredictable, and issues may arise unexpectedly. Being able to think on your feet and find creative solutions is essential in this role.
- Flexibility and adaptability: Events can be fast-paced and dynamic, so being able to adapt to changing circumstances and handle unexpected challenges is key to success in this role.
HOW TO BECOME THIS TYPE OF SPECIALIST
Becoming a manager special events specialist typically requires a combination of education, experience, and specific skills. Here are the steps you can take to pursue this career path:
1. Obtain a degree: While a specific degree is not always required, a bachelor's degree in event management, hospitality, or a related field can provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
2. Gain experience: Internships, volunteer work, or entry-level positions in event planning or related fields can help you gain valuable experience and make industry connections.
3. Develop relevant skills: Focus on developing the skills mentioned earlier, such as organizational skills, attention to detail, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability.
4. Build a portfolio: As you gain experience, compile a portfolio of events you have planned or assisted with. This will showcase your abilities to potential employers.
5. Network: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with others in the event planning industry to expand your network and learn from experienced professionals.
6. Seek certifications: While not always mandatory, obtaining certifications such as Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) or Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) can enhance your credibility and marketability in the field.
7. Apply for managerial positions: Once you have gained sufficient experience and developed the necessary skills, start applying for manager special events positions in organizations or consider starting your own event planning business.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for a manager special events job can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, years of experience, and the size and complexity of the events being managed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for meeting, convention, and event planners was $51,560 as of May 2020. However, it's important to note that salaries can range significantly, with entry-level positions starting at around $35,000 and experienced professionals earning over $80,000 or more per year.
ROLES AND TYPES
Manager special events jobs can encompass a wide range of roles and types, depending on the industry and the specific events being managed. Some common roles in this field include:
- Corporate event manager: This role involves planning and organizing events for corporations, such as conferences, product launches, and team-building activities.
- Wedding planner: Wedding planners specialize in coordinating and managing all aspects of weddings, from venue selection and vendor management to timeline creation and on-site coordination.
- Non-profit event coordinator: Non-profit organizations often hold fundraising events, and event coordinators in this sector are responsible for planning and executing these events to generate donations and support for the cause.
- Trade show manager: Trade show managers handle all aspects of trade shows, including exhibitor coordination, attendee registration, booth setup, and logistics management.
- Social event planner: Social event planners focus on private events such as parties, anniversaries, and celebrations, ensuring that every detail is taken care of to create memorable experiences for clients and guests.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Manager special events jobs can be found in various locations throughout the United States, with some areas offering more opportunities than others. Here are a few locations known for having a high demand for event planning professionals:
- New York City, NY: As a major hub for business and entertainment, New York City offers numerous opportunities for manager special events jobs, particularly in the corporate and luxury event sectors.
- Los Angeles, CA: Known for its vibrant entertainment industry, Los Angeles is a hotspot for event planning, with many opportunities in areas such as film premieres, award shows, and celebrity events.
- Chicago, IL: Chicago is home to a thriving event planning industry, with a wide range of corporate events, conferences, and trade shows taking place in the city.
- Washington, D.C.: The nation's capital hosts numerous government and political events, making it a prime location for event planners specializing in this sector.
- Las Vegas, NV: As a popular destination for conferences, conventions, and entertainment events, Las Vegas offers a wealth of opportunities for event planning professionals.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS
Manager special events professionals rely on various tools and technologies to streamline their work and ensure smooth event execution. Some typical tools used in the industry include:
- Event management software: These software platforms help with tasks such as guest registration, ticketing, event promotion, and attendee management.
- Project management tools: Tools like Asana, Trello, or Basecamp can help with task management, collaboration, and keeping track of deadlines and milestones.
- Communication tools: Email, video conferencing, and messaging apps are essential for staying in touch with clients, vendors, and event staff.
- Social media platforms: Social media plays a significant role in event promotion and engagement, so managers special events often utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to reach their target audience.
- Budgeting and finance software: Managing event budgets requires specialized software to track expenses, invoices, and financial reports accurately.
- Venue sourcing platforms: Online platforms like Eventup or Peerspace help in finding suitable venues for events, allowing managers special events to compare options, view photos, and book spaces.
IN CONCLUSION
Manager special events jobs offer a dynamic and rewarding career path for individuals passionate about planning and organizing memorable experiences. With the right combination of skills, experience, and education, you can excel in this field and contribute to the success of a wide range of events. Whether you're coordinating a corporate conference, planning a lavish wedding, or organizing a charity fundraiser, the role of a manager special events is crucial in ensuring that every detail is taken care of, resulting in unforgettable experiences for clients and guests alike.