What do you do if you want to turn your event planning internship into a successful career?

Landing an internship in event planning can be a significant first step towards a thriving career in this dynamic field. The experience you gain is invaluable, but it's what you do with that experience that can set the foundation for future success. Whether you're in the midst of an internship or planning ahead, understanding how to leverage this opportunity into a successful career is crucial. This article will guide you through practical steps to transition from an intern to a sought-after event planning professional.

1 Build Relationships

Networking is an indispensable tool in the event planning industry. During your internship, make it a priority to build relationships with colleagues, vendors, and clients. Attend industry events, engage in meaningful conversations, and follow up with new contacts. Remember, the connections you forge now can lead to mentorship opportunities, job offers, and collaborations in the future. Always carry yourself professionally and be genuine in your interactions to leave a lasting impression.

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Anjali Gaur

LinkedIn Top Voice|| 300K+ Impressions|| History Graduate || Daulat Ram College, Class of 2022|| Executive- People & Culture Team @ Technip Energies|| Featured in HT times
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Networking plays a crucial role when it comes to a career like event planning. Networking can be very beneficial in the event management industry in the following ways: 1. Building relationships: Networking allows event managers to build relationships with potential industry professionals. These relationships can lead to new business opportunities and partnerships. 2. Sharing knowledge and resources: Networking events provide an opportunity for event managers to share knowledge and resources with other professionals in the industry. This can help them to learn about new trends, technologies, and best practices. 3. Collaborating on projects: Networking can also lead to collaboration on projects with other event professionals.

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Willem Gous

Entrepreneurial Literacy Expert | Making entrepreneurial thinking, mindset and mental fitness accessible to everyone through books, talks, masterclasses and programs. International Speaker | Author | Coach and Mentor
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Building relationships does not mean walking around being an "I" specialist. Talk to them and learn about them. Be interested, not interesting. Learn how you can add value to their world.

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Ms. Rochelle Martin

Certified Medical Advanced Technologist/Certified Podologist, Specialized in diabetics, Orthopedic & Podiatric Medical Assistant Healthcare Information Technology Consultant at Electronic Caregiver, HSA PROGRAM available
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Great topic First not only build networking. 1st build a relationship get to know the person and the business. Prioritize the relationship over all the networking will follow. Support the cause and the opportunity to grow together. Keep it professional you never know who you may meet or know who's watching you to invite you to support the cause.

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2 Show Initiative

To stand out as an intern, demonstrate initiative by going beyond assigned tasks. Offer creative ideas, volunteer for additional responsibilities, and show eagerness to learn all aspects of event planning. This proactive approach will not only enrich your learning experience but also showcase your potential to employers. By taking on challenges and contributing to the success of events, you'll prove that you're ready to take on more significant roles in the industry.

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Anjali Gaur

LinkedIn Top Voice|| 300K+ Impressions|| History Graduate || Daulat Ram College, Class of 2022|| Executive- People & Culture Team @ Technip Energies|| Featured in HT times
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When starting off your career in any of the fields make sure that you display a few qualities: 1. Eagerness to learn 2. Eagerness to take new projects 3. Eagerness to stay active and consistent 4. Eagerness to go beyond set targets 5. Eagerness to work in a team setup (afterall its a team run show)

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Willem Gous

Entrepreneurial Literacy Expert | Making entrepreneurial thinking, mindset and mental fitness accessible to everyone through books, talks, masterclasses and programs. International Speaker | Author | Coach and Mentor
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I see "initiative" as developing your leadership abilities. If you cannot lead yourself, you cannot lead others. Learn to lead yourself into "battle" before doing it for others.

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3 Learn Continuously

The event planning landscape is constantly evolving, so it's essential to stay informed about the latest trends and best practices. Use your internship as an opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and seek feedback on your work. Take advantage of any training sessions or workshops offered, and don't hesitate to ask questions. Your willingness to learn and adapt will be a valuable asset as you advance in your career.

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Anjali Gaur

LinkedIn Top Voice|| 300K+ Impressions|| History Graduate || Daulat Ram College, Class of 2022|| Executive- People & Culture Team @ Technip Energies|| Featured in HT times
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Learning is a continous journey. So its important that you stay updated with the market trends for the same subscribe to some event planning journals, experts who share their insights about industry trends

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4 Reflect Professionalism

Professionalism is key in making a positive impression during your internship. This includes punctuality, appropriate attire, effective communication, and a respectful demeanor. By consistently demonstrating professionalism, you will earn the trust and respect of your peers and superiors. It's these qualities that potential employers look for when considering candidates for full-time positions.

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Willem Gous

Entrepreneurial Literacy Expert | Making entrepreneurial thinking, mindset and mental fitness accessible to everyone through books, talks, masterclasses and programs. International Speaker | Author | Coach and Mentor
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I know this might sound strange to the younger ones, but dress nicely. Sometimes, I am shocked by how people dress nowadays. Some people will take me on about this, and that is good. Dress nicely one day and see the difference in how people treat you, how they listen to you and see your ideas.

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5 Document Successes

Keep a record of your accomplishments and contributions during your internship. Document successful events you've helped coordinate, challenges you've overcome, and any positive feedback you've received. This portfolio will be an essential tool when interviewing for jobs as it provides tangible evidence of your skills and experience. Highlighting your successes will help potential employers envision the value you can bring to their team.

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6 Plan Future Steps

As your internship draws to a close, start planning your next steps. Research potential employers, prepare your resume, and consider how you can apply the skills you've acquired to various roles in event planning. Reach out to your network for job leads and advice, and don't be afraid to pursue opportunities that may seem ambitious. With a clear direction and the experience from your internship, you're well on your way to a successful career in event planning.

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7 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?

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Willem Gous

Entrepreneurial Literacy Expert | Making entrepreneurial thinking, mindset and mental fitness accessible to everyone through books, talks, masterclasses and programs. International Speaker | Author | Coach and Mentor
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Be patient. These things take time. It does not happen overnight. It is not about a moment in time when you arrive at your dream career, it is a journey and at least enjoy that.

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Tarryn Johnston

Founder and CEO at Hennops River Revival and Deep Water Movement, Ambassador for the Nation, Saving the World is on my list of things to DO!
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Trust the process 🙏 Often we try to rush into things prematurely, and we try to steer things in the way we plan, forgetting that ultimately, we don't make the plans. Everything is as it should be, otherwise it would be different.. It's difficult indeed, but trust, trust, trust and surrender 🙏

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What do you do if you want to turn your event planning internship into a successful career?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Build Relationships

2 Show Initiative

3 Learn Continuously

4 Reflect Professionalism

5 Document Successes

6 Plan Future Steps

7 Here’s what else to consider

Event Planning

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What do you do if you want to turn your event planning internship into a successful career?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Build Relationships

2 Show Initiative

3 Learn Continuously

4 Reflect Professionalism

5 Document Successes

6 Plan Future Steps

7 Here’s what else to consider

Event Planning

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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