Even the most experienced event professionals will tell you that nothing can be taken for granted while planning an event. Of course, the glamour comes with the job, but even the slightest slip can cause a chain of disastrous consequences. This is one of the reasons why planning an event and executing it the right way can be a strenuous endeavor.
Over numerous interactions with event professionals, we’ve learned a few things that we think are absolutely essential to be successful in the industry. Take a look below to find out some of the most important qualities of every successful event planner.
Attention to detail
Fundraising, promotion, recruitment, and logistics are just a few things among a long list of tasks that event planners are responsible for. Despite having a long list of priorities and tasks, the organizer has to be organized and thorough when handling these tasks. Carrying out these activities in a planned and disciplined manner is at the center of it all simply because, as mentioned earlier, the smallest of miscalculations can have condemning consequences.
Time management
Even for a seasoned event planner, time is never enough. In most cases, there is a significant amount of work that has to be accomplished in a short window and deadlines are sacrosanct. This makes it important to plan and organize their tasks in a way that maximizes the use of their time and effort. When it comes to events, the earlier the tasks are completed, the lesser the organizer has to worry about.
Attitude and personality
If there’s one quality that separates successful event planners from average ones, it is the attitude that they carry. Self-motivation and perseverance are important qualities. A successful event planner is not afraid to stare adversity in the face and do what it takes to see things through. They should be able to embody the values of the organization while exercising the ability to express themselves in a courteous, professional manner.
Problem-solving
Events come with their fair share of problems and challenges. These problems can range from someone not showing up or fixtures breaking, to last minute hiccups. An event planner should not only be able to solve these problems but should be able to dive deeper into understanding the cause of the problem and take corrective steps. Anticipating the unexpected is the norm. A great problem solver understands an issue, creates a plan, and follows it through to the end. This brings us to…
Quick feet
It goes without saying that a majority of tasks and problems ‘require immediate attention.’ This means that event planners have to be extra quick on their feet and should be able to multitask to get things done on time. The ability to shift focus between assignments and deliver results is more of a requirement than a skill for event planners.
Stress management
The stress of organizing the perfect event can be stupefying. Event planners are under constant pressure to work with deadlines, coordinate with multiple parties, and ensure that everything goes according to plan. Organizing a successful event is the 5th most stressful job in America – and with good reason. The stress could sometimes cause psychological, physiological, and behavioral problems. This makes it extra important for event planners to find a way to keep up with the demanding environment and manage stress effectively.
An affinity for routine
If a successful event planner seems completely organized, chances are he hasn’t achieved this attitude overnight. Planning and organizing the workweek can take a ton of getting used to. Not only does a routine create a system that event professionals can relate to, but can have an influence on their personal lives as well.
Designation of responsibility
Event organizers are often running around trying to get as much done as possible. And often, they are tempted to do everything themselves despite having a team to help them out. This can cause event planners to burnout early, additionally adding to the stress and chaos. Tasks need to be prioritized based on importance first and then delegated based on availability.
Constant learning
Every event is a learning experience. Irrespective of tenure, every event planner has something to learn while organizing an event. Everything from the event’s objective to its budget can teach event planners a lot about the business and the way it functions. Therefore, organizing an event requires the event planner to be curious, constantly learning from the process as much as they do from past mistakes.
Being self-critical
Everyone makes mistakes. It takes a lot of courage to own up to mistakes and move on. Event planning is no different. Event planners carry around a ton of stress and this often makes it difficult to get everything right all of the time. This is where being self-critical comes in. It becomes crucial to accept mistakes, learn from them, and find feasible solutions. The quicker the better.
Networking
Networking at events is extremely crucial. Networking can help event planners gain new ideas, spread their ideas and even meet colleagues that can help them by sharing trends and learning experiences. Further, networking gives them access to people who can not only educate but can help in times of need. A good network is an irreplaceable resource and can provide planners with options and opportunities to gain more at the event.
As an event planner, the qualities discussed here are just the tip of the iceberg. Passion for the job plays an important role in ensuring the event is a success. Whether it means being present and getting your hands dirty or ensuring that time and effort is not wasted, organizing an event can have massive implications on success. Let us know if we’ve missed anything in the comments section below.
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