How do you negotiate better rates and contracts using your event planning portfolio and resume?

1 Create a professional portfolio

Your portfolio is a visual representation of your work, style, and creativity. It should include photos, videos, testimonials, and descriptions of the events you have planned and executed, highlighting the challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Your portfolio should be organized, updated, and tailored to your target market and niche. You can create a digital portfolio using online platforms or tools, or a physical portfolio using a binder or a folder. Make sure your portfolio is easy to access, share, and present.

2 Highlight your resume

Your resume is a summary of your qualifications, education, and achievements in event planning. It should be concise, clear, and relevant to the position or project you are applying for. Your resume should showcase your skills, certifications, awards, and accomplishments that demonstrate your value and expertise. You can use keywords, action verbs, and quantifiable results to make your resume stand out. You can also include a cover letter or a summary statement that highlights your goals, strengths, and personality.

3 Research the market

Before you enter any negotiation, you need to do your homework and research the market. You need to know the average rates and fees for event planners and vendors in your area, industry, and niche. You also need to know the budget, expectations, and needs of your potential clients and suppliers. You can use online resources, industry publications, networks, or referrals to gather this information. By doing your research, you can establish your value proposition, set your minimum and maximum rates, and identify your competitive advantages.

4 Communicate your value

Once you have your portfolio and resume ready, and you have done your market research, you need to communicate your value to your potential clients and suppliers. You need to show them how your skills, experience, and achievements can help them achieve their goals, solve their problems, and create memorable events. You can use your portfolio and resume as evidence and examples of your work quality, creativity, and professionalism. You can also use testimonials, referrals, or case studies to showcase your reputation, credibility, and results.

5 Negotiate with confidence

The final step is to negotiate with confidence and assertiveness. You need to be prepared, polite, and flexible, but also firm and clear about your expectations and boundaries. You need to avoid lowballing yourself or accepting unfair or unrealistic terms. You need to emphasize your value and benefits, not your costs and expenses. You need to listen, ask questions, and address objections or concerns. You need to be willing to compromise, but also to walk away if necessary. You need to document and review the contract before signing it.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?