Do You Have What It Takes to Be an Event Planner?

An event planner career is a high-pressure, fast-paced, and client-driven path. It is also a creative, engaging, and inspiring work environment. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses is a vital part of determining whether you have what it takes to become an event coordinator. We interviewed Los Angeles-based event planner Jessica Alpert, to learn what it takes to succeed in this industry. She provided career advice, helped to break down the skills needed to make it in the industry, and explained some of the challenges in managing special events.

Collaboration is Crucial

An event planner career requires that you be detail-oriented and have excellent communication and time management skills. You must also possess the ability to think fast and juggle all kinds of personalities, handle chaos well, and cope with stressful situations. Aside from those personality traits, Jessica notes a fantastic smile and a willingness to broaden your horizons is necessary to become an event coordinator. While you are planning and executing events, the most crucial part of the project is ensuring that the client is happy. "You may not agree with client choices, but it is up to you to make them believe that their idea is the best you have ever seen."

Additionally, knowing your target audience is an important aspect to event management. Whether you are working to conceptualize an event that will draw large crowds and raise awareness for a particular brand, or planning an intimate dinner party, being able to work independently or with a team the most crucial factor in a successful outcome.

Appearance is Everything

Of course, managing events also has its challenges. It is a tough job and if you cannot handle criticism, roll with the punches, and overcome challenges along the way this might not be the profession for you. Furthermore, according to Jessica, appearance is everything. "If an idea backfires and you are thrown off your game, recover quickly and make it work ten times better. And of course, do it with a smile."

Keys to Success

To be successful in this industry you must be able to properly budget and juggle your time. Additionally, Jessica suggests that quick thinking and the ability to make any challenge work are crucial to effective event management. Finally, you must be flexible to be able to work with clients who want you to plan and manage every detail of an event or simply execute their vision. Having a creative eye to provide suggestions will provide added value to the working relationship.