There’s no doubt that the industry is exciting and will have you working on some interesting jobs. It is a fast-paced and dynamic industry that requires a unique blend of skills to succeed. Whether you’re working in event planning, coordination, hospitality, or event production, employers look for a combination of essential soft skills and specialist abilities.
If you’re considering a career in events or looking to enhance your employability in the industry, understanding what employers value most is crucial.
Essential Skills for Event Personnel
As with any role, there are some essential skills that companies will look for when hiring event personnel. Being able to show these skills through prior employment and volunteer work will help you stand out.
Strong Organisational Abilities
Events involve juggling multiple tasks, from managing schedules and coordinating logistics to handling last-minute changes. Employers look for candidates who can prioritise tasks effectively, stay on top of deadlines, and ensure every element of an event runs smoothly. Good organisational skills help prevent costly errors and keep everything on track.
Excellent Communication Skills
Clear and effective communication is crucial in event management. Whether dealing with clients, suppliers, vendors, or team members, the ability to convey information concisely and professionally is essential. Verbal and written communication skills are equally important, ensuring instructions are clear, expectations are managed, and issues are swiftly resolved.
Problem-Solving and Adaptability
The unpredictable nature of events means challenges are bound to arise, from technical issues to unexpected weather conditions. Employers value personnel who can think on their feet, remain calm under pressure, and quickly come up with solutions to ensure the event continues without disruption.
Customer Service and Interpersonal Skills
Events are all about creating positive experiences for attendees. Whether interacting with clients, guests, or vendors, having a friendly and professional demeanor is vital. Employers seek event staff who can provide excellent customer service, handle complaints with diplomacy, and maintain a positive atmosphere.
Attention to Detail
The smallest details can make or break an event. Whether it’s setting up the right number of chairs, ensuring branding is displayed correctly, or triple-checking dietary requirements, attention to detail is a must-have skill for event personnel. Employers value those who go the extra mile to make sure every element is executed perfectly.
Teamwork and Leadership
Events are rarely executed by a single person; they require a team effort. Being able to work collaboratively and support colleagues is highly valued. In addition, leadership skills are important for those looking to grow into managerial roles. The ability to delegate tasks, motivate a team, and lead by example can set you apart from other candidates.
Time Management
Tight deadlines and packed schedules are the norms in the events industry. Employers look for individuals who can manage their time effectively, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and without unnecessary delays. The ability to prioritise and work under pressure is crucial to maintaining productivity and meeting event goals.
Specialist Skills That Give You an Edge
While those essential skills can be learnt in most job roles, having specialist skills can give you a bit more of an edge over other applicants. These skills may be learnt through on-the-job training or through additional study.
Event Technology and AV Knowledge
With the increasing use of technology in events, having a basic understanding of audiovisual (AV) equipment, lighting, sound systems, and live-streaming platforms is highly desirable. Employers favour candidates who are comfortable troubleshooting minor tech issues and liaising with technical teams.
Marketing and Social Media Skills
Promoting an event is just as important as organising it. Knowledge of social media marketing, content creation, and digital promotions can make you a valuable asset to any event team. Employers appreciate staff who can contribute to event promotion and engage audiences before, during, and after the event.
Health and Safety Awareness
Safety is a priority at any event. Understanding health and safety protocols, risk assessment procedures, and crowd control strategies is beneficial. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed first aid training or hold safety certifications relevant to the industry.
Budgeting and Financial Management
For those in managerial or planning roles, budgeting skills are essential. Employers look for professionals who can manage event costs, negotiate with vendors, and maximise resources without compromising on quality. Understanding financial constraints and making cost-effective decisions is key to a successful event.
Negotiation and Vendor Management
Events require liaising with multiple vendors, from caterers and entertainers to equipment hire companies. Strong negotiation skills can help secure the best deals while maintaining good relationships with suppliers. Employers value staff who can communicate professionally and build lasting partnerships with vendors.
Multitasking and Crisis Management
Handling several aspects of an event simultaneously while staying calm under pressure is a crucial skill. Crisis management training can be an added advantage, helping you handle emergencies efficiently and keep guests safe.
Developing Your Event Industry Skills
The events industry can be hard to break into if you don’t have the right skills or experience. If you’re looking to improve your skill set and enhance your employability in the events industry, consider the following steps:
Gain hands-on experience – Volunteering at events or taking on part-time event roles can help you develop practical skills and build a network of industry contacts.
Pursue relevant training – Courses in event management, marketing, or hospitality can boost your knowledge and credentials.
Stay updated with industry trends – Follow event industry news, attend networking events, and learn about the latest event technology and best practices.
Work on your soft skills – Effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are skills that can be honed through real-world experience and continuous self-improvement.
The events industry demands a diverse skill set, blending organisational abilities, problem-solving, and customer service with specialist knowledge in areas such as event technology, marketing, and health and safety. By developing these key skills, you can increase your chances of securing a rewarding role in event management and stand out to potential employers.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, honing these skills will set you up for success in the exciting and ever-evolving world of events.
One Mob brings together three diverse yet interconnected teams and business identities – Event Personnel Australia, Mob Contracting and Rent A Fence WA. At Event Personnel Australia, we have been a vital part of the Event Industry across Western Australia and South Australia for over 48 years. Our vision is to be the leading Site and Crewing specialist across all industries.
If you’re looking for opportunities in the events industry, One Mob offers a range of event staffing solutions. Explore how we connect skilled professionals with exciting event roles today at One Mob.
