How to Become a Conference and Events Organiser

Have you ever thought of organising events? Being a conference and event organiser is the type of occupation that has endless possibilities and challenges. Maybe it’s a class reunion, a work conference, wedding, birthday, baby shower or a gala dinner. Regardless of the event the organiser is in charge of making the event a success and creating lasting memories for everyone involved. 

What is a Conference and Events Organiser?

Before the magic happens, the event organiser meets up with the client to understand what it is they want. One of the main factors for the organiser is budget, as this determines what resources are available to them to create the event. Whether it’s a conference or a special event, the organiser or planner must first source a venue, then plan menus, the program of events and timings and decide upon the number of staff required. Next they look at any outsourced services they need such as speakers, musicians, photographers or transport. Organisers then let the client make final decisions on which services to use. Once everything is booked and organised they must arrangement for payment, solve any problems or issues and make sure all relevant licences or health and safety requirements are met. On the day of the event, organisers must arrive early to aid and oversee the set up to make sure everything is as the client wants. During the event planners must deal with any issues that arise and solve problems quickly and discreetly. After the function is over final payment is due for services and to the organiser themselves as well as feedback being given by the client.

Being very organised is key to being a conference and event organiser. The function is dependent on them having communicated clearly with the venue and all suppliers and confirmed everything is in place. Conference and event organisers are relationship builders. They need to work with all types of people, from hard to please clients to suppliers, venue managers and catering staff and must polite and friendly with everyone. Multi-tasking is another skill an organiser needs to possess. Juggling different events, clients and suppliers is common in this role. They must remain calm under pressure and think quickly on their feet to sort any problems or mishaps during the function.

Hours & Conditions:

Conference and events organisers often work long and irregular hours, their schedules are built around the events or conferences they run. Usually this involves weekends and public holidays. Although organisers are generally based in an office, most of their time is spent out and about, at events, to do venue visits, visiting exhibitor or sponsors offices, sourcing material or suppliers and meeting with clients. A driver’s license is required as standard for this role.

How to become a Conference and Event Organiser: Qualifications

You can become a conference or event organiser without any formal trainings or qualifications, often with several years of experience in the field. However, many employers prefer a qualification in hospitality or event planning. There are also private training courses available in wedding and event planning. To look at courses that will help you land a job as a conference and events organiser, please visit https://www.careerhq.com.au/careers-database/job_details/424/conference-and-event-organiser

The demand for event organisers is on a steady rise. As organisations and businesses grow and spread geographically, conferences are one way of getting relevant parties together. Despite the widespread use of online interaction, meeting people face-to-face is still preferred by many. As Australians and many countries globally work longer hours, people are using the services of event organisers more and more make up for being time poor.

https://www.careerhq.com.au/careers-database/job_details/424/conference-and-event-organiser