On top of that, the average event organizer is planning and executing multiple events simultaneously. Your job description could include everything from ticket sales and promotion to sponsorship acquisition to day-of logistics, and it’s your responsibility to make sure nothing falls through the cracks. Simply put, to be a successful event planner you need to be able to juggle a lot at once. From convincing a venue to lower their minimum to negotiating a contract with the platinum sponsor, rockstar event planners blend preparation, confidence, tact, and those oh-so-important people skills to get what they need. Event planning skill #4: NegotiationĮvent pros are the kings and queens of bargaining. Whether they’re killing time for a keynote speaker who’s stuck in traffic or making last-minute menu changes when the caterer falls through, they’re nimble and creative in solving unexpected and complex problems. (Though they do have infinite uses for such things!) Successful event organizers are able to think on their feet, stay calm, and make quick decisions when unforeseen challenges arise. Event planning skill #3: Problem-solvingĪn event planner’s resourcefulness isn’t limited to duct tape and safety pins. And they’re not only good at communicating their own vision - they’re also great listeners, taking extra care to understand their clients’ wants and needs. The best event organizers have sharp written and verbal communication skills, conveying information with confidence, clarity, and respect. Strong people skills are key to ensuring that everything runs smoothly and everyone involved understands their role.
Event planning skill #2: CommunicationĮvent planners interact with a wide variety of people on a daily basis, including C-suite executives, donors, brand sponsors, vendors, and, of course, event attendees. To crush it in this role, you have to be on top of the little things, giving each one the attention it deserves, from napkin rings to A/V hookups. You may want to see if there are any local event planners who may be willing to take on some help in exchange for "on the job training." This is going to be the best way to learn about the real dynamics of event planning and execution.Įvent planning skill #1: Attention to detailĪ well-executed event is never an accident - it’s the compilation of many, many small details that come together to create a polished, flawless experience.Įvent pros are known for their attention to detail, which often manifests itself in comprehensive checklists, to-do lists, and itineraries.
There is also invaluable knowledge you will gain by experience alone. Creativity also lends itself to thinking on your feet if any issues come in in the event planning or at the event itself - it will be your job to think quickly to problem solve and minimize any issues at the event.
It will be critical to document these clearly, define timelines and ensure that you are communicating/tracking those different requirements to meet deadlines! (Another call out for strong communication!)ģ) Creativity & Problem Solving Skills: You'll need to "think outside the box" to be able to take your client's vision and translate it to reality, and even go above and beyond. Your client's trust is everything!Ģ) Organizational and Project Management Skills: Planning an event can be very complex, as there are many different aspects of planning to coordinate and manage. I also have a project management background and would love to share my recommendations in the skills that would be helpful for the event planning industry:ġ) Strong communication: You'll need to be able to speak clearly with your clients and vendors, articulate needs, visions and deadlines, and also find ways to manage client expectations/emotions in the event that there are bumps in the road in planning. I am not an event planner by trade, but have planned many events in the tech industry (or personally) with event planners and specialists.