What is event management exactly, and why has it become an indispensable part of today's social and professional landscapes? We’ve got all the answers you need.
Behind every professional event, you’ll find an event manager, the crucial figure ensuring everything runs smoothly. Event managers are the masterminds behind the scenes, orchestrating all aspects of events from conception to conclusion. They are calm, controlled, organised and know how to keep to schedule, make last-minute amendments, and cater to diverse clientele needs.
Keen to learn more? We’re diving into the world of event management to explore behind-the-scenes of this dynamic industry, including event management software, statistics, and skills.
What is Event Management?
Event management involves the planning and execution of events of varying types and scales. These events could range from small, private gatherings like weddings and birthdays, to large-scale corporate events, product launches and music festivals.
The purpose of what event management is to ensure that the client's vision for the event is fulfilled, that all aspects of the event run smoothly, and that attendees have an enjoyable and memorable experience.
The Essence of Event Management
Event management involves a comprehensive approach from conceptualising initial event ideas through planning, coordination, and executing the event. This process encompasses a wide array of tasks, including;
Scheduling
Site inspection and venue selection
Acquiring necessary permits
Coordinating transportation and parking
Arranging for speakers or entertainers
Selecting and arranging decor
Event security
Catering/BEO coordination
Coordinating with third-party vendors
Emergency planning
Event management requires a blend of creativity, precision, and effective communication to bring together all aspects of the event seamlessly. The goal is to leave a lasting impression on the participants and achieve the objectives of the event's host or sponsors, whether it's engagement, education, entertainment, or celebration.
Event Management Statistics You Need to Know
• In 2023, an average of 65% of companies worldwide reported an increase in meeting and event spending. (Nunify) • In-person event attendance rates are around 60-65%, while the average attendance rate for digital events is approximately 40%. (Nunify) • The global event industry is expected to reach $2.330 trillion in revenue by 2026. (zipdo) • Over 85% of event planners use event management software to plan events. (zipdo) |
The Role of Technology in Event Management
These days, technology has become crucial for streamlined event planning. With the rise of online and hybrid events, apps and software have become essential tools to help people stay connected and organised. They make it easier to see schedules, connect with others attending, plan out all the details, and cater to last-minute changes.
Virtual and hybrid events have become increasingly popular, and running these events requires different skills and technology than traditional in-person events. You need platforms for hosting online events, services for live streaming, and tools to keep everyone engaged digitally. That's why it's so important to use technology to create events and make them interactive and enjoyable for everyone involved.
The Importance of Event Management Software
Event management software is a game-changer for anyone organising events, big or small. It takes the stress out of managing all the moving parts by streamlining tasks like budgeting, scheduling, and registration into one easy-to-use platform. This software helps you automate repetitive tasks, avoid manual mistakes, and save valuable time. By keeping everything organised and efficient, event management software ensures a smoother experience for you and your attendees, making events more enjoyable and successful.
iVvy’s event management software offers a range of features that simplify the entire event planning process. From automated quotes and contracts to real-time reporting and analytics, iVvy provides everything you need to organise successful events. The software’s intuitive interface makes it easy to manage bookings, track budgets, and coordinate with vendors, all from one central platform. With iVvy, you can streamline your workflows, reduce manual tasks, and improve your time management.
The Skills Required in Event Management
If you're keen on pursuing a career in event management, mastering certain skills is essential. Juggling various elements of an event at once can be tricky, highlighting the importance of being organised. Communication plays a key role too - you'll find yourself frequently interacting with clients, vendors, and your team. Creativity is another crucial skill; it's necessary for keeping on top of event trends, coming up with event themes and solving any surprises that come your way.
Being good at negotiating will also serve you well, as it involves working closely with suppliers and vendors to secure the best possible deals. And perhaps most importantly, staying calm under pressure is vital. Events don't always unfold as expected, and you'll need to handle unforeseen challenges and all feedback (including criticism) calmly and rationally.
Career Opportunities in Event Management
The event management industry is a dynamic and exciting field that presents many career opportunities for individuals passionate about creating unforgettable experiences. With a diverse array of roles available, such as event planners, coordinators, venue managers, and conference organisers, the industry offers something for everyone interested in events of all shapes and sizes.
One of the key advantages of working in event management is the highly transferable skills developed in the profession. Professionals in this field can transition easily across different sectors, including hospitality, tourism, corporate, and non-profit, providing great flexibility and career growth opportunities. Whether you enjoy working behind the scenes or being front and centre, the event management industry has something to offer anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding career.
The Impact of Event Management on Society
Event management is much more than organising events; it significantly impacts lives in several ways. It boosts the economy by attracting tourists and helping local businesses make more money. It also brings people together, celebrating diversity and encouraging everyone to participate and share their culture. Corporate events and conferences are crucial for professional growth as they provide opportunities for new ideas, connecting with others in the field, learning, and collaborating on new projects.
In short, event management plays a crucial role in developing our communities, economy, and professional lives, making it a valuable part of society.
Making Every Occasion Something to Remember
So, what is event management? It's more than a job or an industry. It's a calling to create spaces where people can come together to share, learn, celebrate, and grow. It's about crafting not just events, but experiences that touch hearts and ignite minds.
Take a moment to reflect on the significant events that have impacted your life, such as a wedding, anniversary, birthday, or a corporate gathering that altered your career path. These memories result from the hard work of dedicated event managers who put their heart and soul into creating moments of connection. In the vast and intricate world of event management, every detail, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in weaving a larger tapestry of our shared experiences.