Special Event Jobs

Imperative Information You Need to Know

If you've suddenly decided you want a career in special events, you first need to understand the industry and a few basics before you go running off and sending out a million resume's in hopes of landing your perfect job.

When most people decide they want to become an event planner, they are envisioning the exciting world of special events. They think of the high profile, general public, special events and festivals that are held in every town, every city, every state, and every country, worldwide.

And with good reason. Although it is impossible to determine just how many special events are held each year, the non-profit sector alone generated $40 billion in 2008 through special events. And this does not include the for-profit festivals and events, such as food festivals, wine festivals, music festivals, and any other event you can think of!

Just to get your mind whirling, here's a very short list of the literally countless examples of special events and festivals held each year:

• Food Festivals
• Wine Festivals
• Beer Festivals
• Music Festivals
• Concerts
• Theater Productions
• Art Fairs
• Book Fairs
• Town Fairs
• Oktoberfests
• Fourth of July
• Holiday Events
• Renaissance Fairs
• Dog Shows
• Horse Shows
• Marathons
• Triathlons

.....and on and on and on. Phew!

And just think, every single one of these events needs planners experienced in special event planning!

Who plans these events? How do I find these special event jobs?

(For much, much more on this topic, be sure to click on the "Career Planning" link at the bottom of this page).

For the larger special events and festivals, there are usually a few full-time paid positions within the organization or association that is hosting the event.

What is an association?

Within this association, there will be a main contact, someone who is serving as the main planner or organizer. Whether you are trying to land a paid position or if you'd like to volunteer to gain some experience, this will be a good person to try to get to know.

Whether you are looking for volunteer positions or paid special event jobs, most opportunities with special events are short-term. An association or organization will start looking for short-term, freelance contractors anywhere from 6-12 months in advance of the event. Smaller events need less time, larger events often need a year.

This is where YOU come in! If you are just starting out in the events industry, volunteer. If you have experience, research which organizations are in charge of the events you are interested in working. A year in advance, approach them and begin networking!

How do I get started?

How do you know who to call to volunteer and learn more about special event jobs? What else do I need to do to apply for a job in special events? And, most importantly, what do you do once you land a position?

These days, the special event industry is so competitive that it's difficult to even get a volunteer position without a little bit of know-how. They simply are too understaffed and shorthanded to take the time to teach you what they need you to know.

It's the ultimate "catch-22;" how do you get any experience, without first having experience?

The first step is to learn as much as you can. If you at least know the basics, and know some of the lingo, you will be miles ahead of the countless other people also vying for these special event jobs or volunteer positions.

I have an online Event Planner Course that teaches you, step by step, how to begin a career in special events and corporate meeting planning. I teach you how the industry works, and important words to know. I teach you the basic elements of nearly every event. I also include a free bonus, my Event Planning Resume eBook; which shows you how to create an effective resume and a cover letter than stands out from the crowd.

To learn much more, go to the Event Planner Course page to read more.

The special event planning industry is large enough that, with a little bit of effort and planning on your part, once you get rolling you will be able to find work. It is well worth a little time and effort now, in order to enjoy the rest of your career living your dream career as a special event planner!

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