Getting started literally requires just a first step and most commonly it’s on one of the following paths:

VolunteerIf you’re passionate about a career in events then volunteer. Volunteering in events offers a real-world experience of what’s involved in putting events together, invaluable for experience and portfolio building. Volunteering also brings you credibility with potential employers and allows you to see whether working in events is for you.

University DegreeOver 70 universities in the UK offer a degree course in event management.

Courses and TrainingThere are plenty of dedicated event management training courses available. Whether you’re starting from scratch, have already taken a degree or want to change careers, we have developed a range of accredited event management training covering the spectrum from Foundation, to Diploma, to Postgraduate levels. All of our courses offer a learning experience which is actually quicker than traditional university routes and includes that vital industry experience to support the start of your career as an event planner.

So now you know what event management really is, we’ll give the final word to our own Claire Derrick, Director of Education for Event Academy:

“Event management is the process by which events are conceived, planned, created and assessed. Events are brought to life by the project management of a series of well thought out plans and tasks.

Events are experiential by their nature. So management of them means that you must immerse yourself in the event, and not just tick actions off a list. Good event management requires flexibility, strength of character and an ability to connect with people from all walks of life.”