How do professional associations address event planning trends and challenges?

1 Benefits of joining a professional association

One of the main reasons why event planners join professional associations is to access the benefits they offer, such as discounts, certifications, awards, and publications. These benefits can help event planners save money, enhance their skills, gain recognition, and stay informed about the best practices and standards in the industry. For example, the International Live Events Association (ILEA) offers its members discounts on event insurance, software, and education programs, as well as the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) credential, which demonstrates a high level of competence and professionalism in event planning. The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) offers its members access to the Convene magazine, which covers the latest trends and insights in the meetings and events industry, as well as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation, which validates the knowledge and experience of meeting professionals.

2 Networking and mentoring opportunities

Another reason why event planners join professional associations is to network and connect with other professionals in their field, who can offer them support, advice, and referrals. Professional associations organize various events and activities throughout the year, such as conferences, workshops, webinars, socials, and online forums, where event planners can meet, learn from, and collaborate with their peers. Some professional associations also offer mentoring programs, where experienced event planners can guide and coach new or aspiring event planners in their career development. For example, the Meeting Professionals International (MPI) has a Global Mentorship Program, where mentors and mentees are matched based on their goals, interests, and backgrounds, and work together for six months to achieve their objectives. The Society of Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) has a Young Leaders Program, where young professionals can network with senior leaders, access educational resources, and participate in events designed to foster their growth and leadership in the incentive travel industry.

3 Education and professional development

Event planning is a fast-paced and competitive profession that requires continuous learning and improvement to keep up with the evolving needs and expectations of clients and stakeholders. Professional associations provide event planners with various opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills, such as online courses, webinars, podcasts, blogs, newsletters, and research reports. These resources cover a wide range of topics relevant to event planning, such as marketing, design, technology, sustainability, diversity, and safety. Some professional associations also offer certification programs, which are recognized by employers and clients as indicators of quality and expertise in event planning. For example, the Events Industry Council (EIC) administers the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) program, which is the most widely accepted certification in the meetings and events industry, as well as the Certified Event Designer (CED) program, which focuses on applying design thinking principles to create engaging and effective events. The Association of Destination Management Executives International (ADMEI) offers the Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP) program, which certifies the knowledge and skills of destination management professionals.

4 Advocacy and representation

Event planning is an industry that faces many challenges and issues, such as regulatory changes, economic fluctuations, environmental impacts, and ethical dilemmas. Professional associations act as advocates and representatives for event planners, by lobbying for their interests, raising awareness of their value, and promoting their standards and ethics. Professional associations also engage with other stakeholders in the industry, such as suppliers, venues, media, and government agencies, to foster collaboration and cooperation. For example, the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) advocates for the association community, which includes many event planners, by influencing public policy, conducting research, and providing resources on issues such as taxation, antitrust, accessibility, and diversity. The Event Industry Alliance (EIA) represents the event industry as a whole, by working with other associations and organizations to address the challenges and opportunities posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as health and safety guidelines, recovery strategies, and government support.

5 Trends and innovation

Event planning is a profession that thrives on creativity and innovation, as event planners strive to create memorable and impactful experiences for their clients and attendees. Professional associations help event planners stay ahead of the curve by identifying and showcasing the latest trends and innovations in the industry, such as new technologies, formats, themes, and strategies. Professional associations also encourage and reward innovation by organizing awards, competitions, and grants for event planners who demonstrate excellence and originality in their work. For example, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) hosts the annual Expo! Expo! event, which features the latest products, services, and solutions for the exhibitions and events industry, as well as the IAEE Awards, which honor the achievements and contributions of individuals and organizations in the industry. The Event Marketing Association (EMA) runs the EMA Innovation Grant, which supports event planners who have innovative ideas for enhancing the attendee experience, generating revenue, or solving a problem in the event industry.

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?