How to Gain Experience and Knowledge as an Event Manager: My Journey

Check out this video to see if an Event Manager career is for you!

Breaking into the world of event management can seem daunting, but there are many paths to success in this exciting and rewarding career. For me, the journey began with studying at university and volunteering my time to gain hands-on experience. If you’re considering a career as an event manager or looking to level up your skills, here’s a guide based on my personal experience.

Why I Chose University

University provided me with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills to build my career in event management. Here’s what I gained from my studies:

1. Understanding the Industry

   • Studying event management at university gave me a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances, from logistics and budgeting to marketing and risk management.

2. Networking Opportunities

   • Universities often have partnerships with industry professionals and organizations, providing opportunities to connect with potential mentors and employers.

3. Access to Resources

   • Through workshops, guest lectures, and coursework, I was exposed to tools and best practices that are essential for event planning and execution.

     
     

The Power of Volunteering

While university taught me the theory, volunteering gave me practical experience that was invaluable in building my confidence and skills. Here’s how volunteering helped me:

1. Hands-On Experience

   • Volunteering allowed me to see first-hand what it takes to plan and execute events. Whether it was helping at festivals, conferences, or charity fundraisers, each experience was a chance to learn by doing.

2. Skill Development

   • From coordinating schedules to managing on-site logistics, volunteering gave me the chance to develop transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

3. Building a Portfolio

   • By taking on various volunteer roles, I was able to create a portfolio of experiences that showcased my abilities to potential employers.

4. Expanding My Network

   • Volunteering introduced me to professionals in the field, many of whom became mentors or offered job opportunities later on.

     
     

Other Ways to Gain Experience and Knowledge

If university or volunteering doesn’t align with your current situation, there are plenty of other ways to gain experience and knowledge:

1. Online Courses and Certifications

   • Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Eventbrite offer affordable courses on event management. Certifications from organizations like the Event Leadership Institute can boost your credibility.

2. Internships

   • Interning with event management companies provides hands-on experience while allowing you to learn from industry experts.

3. Shadowing Professionals

   • Reach out to event managers and ask if you can shadow them during an event. Observing professionals in action can teach you a lot about the demands of the job.

4. Starting Small

   • Organise small events for friends, family, or local community groups. These experiences can help you build confidence and skills without overwhelming pressure.

5. Joining Industry Associations

   • Associations like the International Live Events Association (ILEA) or Meeting Professionals International (MPI) offer resources, networking events, and educational opportunities.

   
   

Lessons Learned Along the Way

1. Be Proactive

   • Opportunities won’t always come to you. Reach out, apply, and put yourself in situations where you can grow and learn.

2. Stay Curious

   • The events industry is always evolving. Stay updated on trends, technology, and best practices to remain competitive.

3. Embrace Challenges

   • Not every event will go smoothly, but every challenge is a chance to learn and improve for the future.

     
     

Final Thoughts

Becoming an event manager takes dedication, creativity, and a willingness to learn. Whether you choose to pursue a formal education, gain hands-on experience through volunteering, or take an alternative route, what matters most is your passion and commitment to the craft.

If you’re on your own journey to becoming an event manager, what steps are you taking? Share your story or ask questions in the comments—I’d love to help!