Event Management as a Career: Expert Tips on What You Need to Succeed

Heather Apse December 17, 2024

If you work in event management or consider it a career option, you may want to know what being in “Events” is all about! How do you make sure you will love and succeed in this very dynamic industry? The great news is that the events industry market is expected to continue to grow so your opportunity to play a part in this exciting field is big! Get ready for a great introduction to a career in Events!

To help you develop your career plan in the event industry, we spoke with Ashley McNally, Digital Marketing Manager at Poached Jobs, a leading job marketplace for hospitality professionals. Here we share valuable insights and advice for anyone passionate about event management in the hospitality industry.

Why Choose an Events Management Career?

The event industry spans various event types, from social get-togethers and weddings to corporate meetings and beyond. It’s a dynamic field encompassing event planning, management, technological innovations, marketing, and ticketed services. There are numerous roles you can have, as well as a variety of work atmospheres, including restaurants, hotels, and event venues. Event staff may spend time in an office or venue, depending on the role. A flexible schedule can be expected with weekends and nights as needed.

McNally shared, “If you’re looking for a career with a lot of variability and flexibility, then events can be great. You’ll work on various events for different occasions and experiences and meet many people from all walks of life. No two days will necessarily be the same!”

Benefits of Becoming an Event Manager

While it can be challenging, the role of an event manager also comes with a wide range of rewards. Here are some of the top benefits of being an event manager:

1. Creative Freedom

Event management is a canvas for creativity. Whether it’s designing a themed gala, organizing a corporate retreat, or planning a wedding, event managers have the opportunity to turn ideas into memorable experiences. Each event allows you to:

Experiment with new concepts and trends.
Showcase unique problem-solving and design skills.
Create personalized moments that delight clients and attendees.

2. Diverse Work Environment

Every day is different in event management. You’ll work on:

A variety of events, from small gatherings to large-scale conferences.
Collaborating with vendors, clients, and teams from multiple industries.
This diversity keeps the job exciting and helps you build a dynamic skill set.

3. Opportunities for Travel

Event managers often get to travel to:

Unique venues in their local area.
National or even international destinations for larger events.
This aspect of the job combines work and exploration, allowing you to experience new places and cultures.

4. Building Strong Networks

Event managers interact with a broad range of professionals, including:

Caterers, florists, and photographers.
Venue coordinators, speakers, and performers.
Corporate leaders, influencers, and public figures.
These connections can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations in the future.

5. Tangible Results and Satisfaction

Few careers offer the immediate gratification of seeing your hard work come to life. As an event manager, you’ll:

Witness the excitement and joy of attendees.
Receive feedback from clients who appreciate your efforts.
Take pride in creating events that leave lasting memories.

6. Potential for High Earnings

With experience and a strong reputation, event managers can command competitive salaries and even premium fees for their expertise. Specializing in high-demand areas, such as weddings, corporate events, or luxury experiences, can further boost income.

7. Personal and Professional Growth

Event management hones a wide range of skills, such as:

Leadership and team management.
Budgeting and financial planning.
Crisis management and adaptability under pressure.
These abilities are transferable to many other roles and industries, broadening your career horizons.

8. Flexibility and Freelance Opportunities

Many event managers choose to work independently, giving them control over their schedules and the types of projects they take on. Freelancing also allows you to:

Balance work with personal commitments.
Build your own brand and business.

9. Job Stability and Demand

The need for skilled event managers is growing, as businesses, organizations, and individuals continue to host gatherings. From corporate meetings to milestone celebrations, events remain an integral part of both business and social life.

10. Making a Positive Impact

Event managers often have the chance to contribute to meaningful causes. Whether organizing charity fundraisers, community events, or sustainability-focused gatherings, you can make a tangible difference in the world.

Understanding the Roles within the Events Industry

Is Event Planning Different from Event Management?

Yes, event planning and event management are related but distinct aspects of organizing events. While both are crucial for a successful event, they focus on different phases and responsibilities.

While event planning is more about the “what, where, and how” of an event, event management focuses on the “when and how well.” For smaller events, one person or team might handle both roles. However, for larger events, these roles are often divided among specialists to ensure every aspect is thoroughly addressed.

According to the job postings on Poached Jobs, there are various roles in Event Management working for restaurants, hotels, and venues, including:

Event Manager/Lead/Coordinator:

Meets with event planners and clients to organize events by understanding their goals and wishes while giving information and advice on setup, decor, entertainment, food, and beverages.
Organizes team members and vendors on the backend to ensure each event runs smoothly and as expected.
Handles all necessary administrative tasks to book events, manage budgets, and coordinate with vendors.

Event Sales Associate/Coordinator

Oversees and manages event inquiries and event leads
Is an expert on products, services, and accommodations
Coordinates with marketing to reach target sales lead goals
Works with clients to ensure success and satisfaction of booked events

Event Captain

Works closely with the event manager or lead as the in-between event staff coordinator to ensure a smooth event
Provides exceptional customer service, food requests, inquiries, or complaints from clients to the appropriate person
Oversees event staff to ensure adherence to safety protocols and food and beverage regulations
Helps set up, break down, and maintain cleanliness of event space

Event Kitchen Staff

Works the kitchen to prepare set menus for booked events
Follows food safety regulations
Maintains clean and efficient workspaces
Coordinates with FOH banquet staff, event captain, and manager to pace appetizer and main menu items while filling requests as needed

Event Banquet Staff and Event Servers

Greets and directs guests upon arrival and answers any questions
Delivers pre-arranged beverages and food in a timely manner
Clears empty and unused items from the table and general event area
Coordinates with kitchen staff, event captain, and event manager to ensure a smooth event

Needed Skills and Ways to Succeed as an Event Manager

Because this is a hospitality role, your people skills become a leading requirement. But many qualifications will help you in your career. McNally reported that event management-related job listings consistently ask for specific skills and qualities, including:

Interpersonal Skills: Being empathetic, friendly, and hospitable especially when related to clients and event guests.
Strong Communication and Delegation Skills: Essential for coordinating teams and ensuring smooth event execution.
Conflict Resolution Skills: Essential for navigating any challenges that arise and smooth operations.
Time Management: Key for planning and pacing events effectively.
Attention to Detail: Being organized and meticulous
Leadership in Diverse Team Sizes: Comfortably leading both small and large groups
Project Management Experience: Valuable for overseeing details of events
Adaptability and Resourcefulness: Thinking on your feet is crucial, especially when unexpected situations arise.
Tech Savvy: Being comfortable with computers and learning new technologies like event management software. A leader in the industry, Tripleseat streamlines event management for clients and event managers. Learn more from Tripleseat University.
Sales and Customer Service Expertise: Crucial for client satisfaction
Accounting and Budgeting Skills: Important for financial management
Food Safety and Working Ergonomics Knowledge: Indispensable in any hospitality role
Knowledge of Beverages and Food Pricing: Beneficial for menu planning
Eagerness to Learn and Flexibility: A willingness to understand all aspects of the business and step in when needed
Pressure Management: Maintaining composure under stress is a must.

Getting Started in the Hospitality Industry

Here’s some sound career advice for those of you just starting out shared by McNally:

“When just starting in the industry, it’s important to focus on the job you’ve got and give it 100%. So much of our industry moves through word of mouth, so keeping a good reputation and not burning bridges is pretty important.

One of the most amazing parts of working in hospitality is that it is possible to work your way up from the bottom without seeking formal higher education. You can go far quickly if you’re dedicated, hard-working, and curious.

While a college degree might not be required, seeking educational opportunities within the event industry, like those associated with food and drink festivals or tradeshows, or obtaining a food handler certification and liquor license doesn’t hurt.

If you have hospitality experience but feel like your resume is getting overlooked for managerial roles, it could help to express your desire to take on more responsibility at your job to gain more experience. Additionally, many free courses are available to get a general understanding of things like bookkeeping, spreadsheets, and management.

If you aspire to enter the event management as a career or a role in the catering industry, you can seek on-call opportunities with companies you admire. Many event and catering companies need reliable staff to book events as needed. This is a great way to get your foot in the door and potentially work your way up within the company.”

Ways to Network in the Events Industry

Local food and beverage or hospitality events and tradeshows are great ways to network with other attendees—and also to support your own hospitality scene. EventCamp by Tripleseat is a great way to network with event professionals. Also, check out the HEC, an online community just for events and hospitality professionals to network and connect.

Additionally, to gain insight into the events and hospitality industry, browsing jobs on Poached Jobs can be immensely helpful. You can view job listings to see the qualifications and requirements employers are looking for when hiring specific roles and identify where you might need to expand your experience.

Informational interviews are also a fantastic way to network and gain insight into the events and hospitality industry. With an informational interview, you find someone with the job you’re interested in and ask if they can set up a quick interview to learn more about their role, how they got to where they are, and any advice they can offer you. Informational interviews aren’t intended as a job interview—but you are networking. In the hospitality industry, anyone who shows interest and puts themselves out there will likely make a lasting impression.

Finding Jobs for Event Management

If you’re ready to start looking for Event jobs, check out Poached Jobs.

Poached is the nation’s leading hospitality employment site, with over 70K businesses using their platform to meet their next best hire. Poached is free for anyone looking for work in the industry and is available through the app or website, so you can always be looking and stay ahead of the competition.

The app is available on iPhone and Android and has fantastic search tools to narrow down the event opportunities you want, whether in sales, management, or banquets.

Ways to Succeed as an Event Manager

1. Master the Latest Event Management Tech Tools

Technology will continue to reshape event management. Familiarize yourself with:

Event management software like Tripleseat for seamless planning and communication.
AR and VR tools to create immersive experiences for hybrid and in-person events.
AI-powered solutions for attendee engagement, from chatbots to personalized recommendations.

Tech-savviness isn’t optional anymore; it’s essential for efficiency and delivering wow-worthy results.

2. Embrace Sustainability

In 2025, clients and attendees expect eco-conscious events. Incorporate green practices such as:

Using local and seasonal catering options.
Partnering with vendors who prioritize sustainability.
Choosing venues with green certifications.
Promoting your commitment to the planet isn’t just good ethics; it’s good business.

3. Focus on Personalization

The days of cookie-cutter events are over. Guests now demand tailored experiences that reflect their interests and values. Successful event managers:

Gather detailed insights about attendees to create personalized moments.
Offer curated packages for clients, whether it’s custom menus, unique décor, or themed entertainment.
Use data analytics to continuously refine personalization efforts.

4. Prioritize Flexibility and Problem-Solving

Flexibility is the name of the game in a post-pandemic world. The ability to:

Adapt to last-minute changes.
Offer hybrid options for events.
Tackle unforeseen challenges with grace and creativity.
…will set you apart.

5. Build a Strong Network

In 2025, collaboration remains key to success. Cultivate relationships with:

Venues, vendors, and service providers.
Other event professionals through online communities and industry conferences.
Influencers and media contacts who can help promote your events.

Networking isn’t just about opportunities; it’s about building a team you can rely on.

6. Invest in Education and Certification

The event industry evolves rapidly, and staying current is vital. Pursue certifications like:

Certified Meeting Professional (CMP).
Digital Event Strategist (DES).
Additionally, attend workshops and webinars to stay ahead of trends.

7. Understand Financial Management

Success as an event manager also depends on your ability to:

Set and stick to budgets.
Track expenses meticulously.
Communicate costs effectively with clients.
Familiarity with tools like QuickBooks or event-specific budgeting apps can be a lifesaver.

In 2025, social media will continue to drive awareness and engagement. Build your personal brand by:

Sharing case studies and testimonials from past events.
Posting behind-the-scenes content to showcase your process.
Engaging with followers to build trust and authority.

9. Stay Ahead of Trends

What worked last year might not work this year. Keep tabs on emerging trends such as:

Micro-events that focus on intimate, high-impact gatherings.
Experience-driven formats like wellness retreats or unique workshops.
Inclusive designs that ensure events are accessible for all.

10. Commit to Excellent Communication

From initial pitches to post-event feedback, clear and consistent communication is crucial. Prioritize:

Active listening to understand client goals.
Transparent updates to keep stakeholders informed.
Gratitude and follow-up to build lasting relationships.

Final Thoughts on How to Succeed in Event Management

Becoming a successful event manager in 2025 means embracing change, leveraging technology, and staying client-focused. With a mix of creativity, adaptability, and a willingness to grow, you can create unforgettable events and thrive in this ever-evolving industry.

Ready to take the leap? Whether you’re a seasoned professional or starting out in your event management career, there’s always room to grow and excel. Stay passionate, keep learning, and embrace the dynamic nature of the Events Industry!