An event management course will equip you, as an event coordinator with the ability to deal with every aspect of a meeting, conference or event to ensure that all aspects that make up a successful event are in place at the right time. Event management professionals can be in corporate companies or, if you are thinking of starting an events management business, this is the course for you.
A successful event would require some or all of the following to name but a few.
Delegate registration
Seating/tents/venue hire
Meals and refreshments
Health and safety
Lighting and presentation equipment
Music and or entertainment
Transport and accommodation
In essence an events coordinator will be fully prepared ahead of time and have support staff ready with all of the required documentation to ensure that the event and all of the necessary services are in place when required.
An event coordinator also known as event professionals are in charge of every meeting and events, from weddings to expos and trade shows. An events manager manages an event from setup to cleanup and everything in between. They need to prepare an manage the arrival, installation and setup of all of the different components that make a successful event, right from the stemware and cutlery, to the lighting and entertainment and then ensure that the event itself runs smoothly. An event coordinator is the centre piece of every activity and service at an event or function. Nothing happens without his/her say so.
As an Event Coordinator, you will conduct projects, activities and manage the development, implementation of project plans and coordinate various events. An Event manager has the responsibility to lead the following activities and deliver a successful event.
Staffing is a critical aspect of event management, where selecting the right staff for each particular function can mean the difference between success and failure of an event. A good events manager will have relationships with staffing companies that have a good knowledge of how you like your functions to run and the types of staff that you demand.
Staff members that have clearly defined roles and have been trained and briefed according to their skill sets are the happiest and most productive staff at any event. The last thing you want as a temp staff member helsping at an event is to be constantly changing functions or taking random orders from the organisers. This can lead to temp staff not wanting to work with your company or staffing companies not wanting to work with you.
As an event coordinator, you will assist with venue negotiations and the booking of venue space that will be needed for your function, arrange food and beverage, order supplies and audio-visual equipment, make travel arrangements, order event signs and ensure appropriate decor to meet the quality expectations of the alumni associations.
Coordinators have to work with a number of other employees within the customers company, including individuals helping to set up the event and other members of the marketing staff. Often, differences of opinion will arise on how branding is displayed and changes may need to be made at very short notice. A good relationship with suppliers is essentail to be an effective events manager. They may also need to coordinate volunteers. Coordinators monitor an events budget and remain within the budget throughout the planning process. Special events coordinator must meet with potential clients to gather ideas.
How much do event coordinators earn?
In South Africa according to the pay scale, an Event Coordinator earns an average salary of R140,263 per year.
JOB SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
Communication: Event coordinators talk to clients, listening to their needs and presenting ideas and solutions to their requirements. They also work with suppliers, contractors, employees, wait staff and many other parties at the same time. Customer service and interpersonal skills are required.
Calm under Pressure: Many things can go wrong during an event, and something eventually will. Event coordinators need to remain calm during crisis and the high pressure of an event in progress.
Computer Skills: Modern event planners rely on computers to communicate, plan, budget and organize their events.
Negotiation Skills: Event coordinators will need negotiation skills to work out prices with clients and contractors.
Organization: Many things happen all at once at meetings. Event coordinators need to stay focused and organized so that the event goes off without a hitch.
Problem-Solving Skills: Inevitably, something will go wrong at an event. Being able to quickly solve the issue is required
Other jobs in the events management industry
Any hotel or venue has function rooms which are used for functions/conferences. Events management is a great position to capitalize on this growing sector, events managers, banqueting manager, wedding planners and sports management are more common job titles in this sector. You will be required to assist with performing administrative tasks, preparing and serving food and communicating with guests.
Study Events Management
