Career prospects in events management?

bhz-2

I've just heard of a HNC course on events management at a college I might be interested in.

The college brochure states that the course would train you for a career as an events co-ordinator/manager or wedding planner and claims it's a 'growing industry'. Is it true it's a growing industry with this recession? What are the career prospects? Is it useful to have a HNC/HND?

I'd welcome your views and advice on that. Thanks

elsietanner71

Hi bhz-2

I have no direct experience of the industry but it may be worthwhile looking at jobs that are advertised within the field to see what kind of skills and qualifications employers look for.

You could try here: http://www.eventjobsearch.co.uk/jobs/

Maybe also if you haven't already do a bit of research into what the job involves or even send your CV off to events management companies asking if you could do some unpaid work for them, just to give you an insight into what the job is like and what it involves.

You'll find some useful information here: http://careersadvice.direct.gov.uk/helpwithyourcareer/jobprofiles/JobProfile?jobprofileid=1348&jobprofilename=Events%20Manager&code=285825923

And here:
http://www.prospects.ac.uk/p/types_of_job/event_organiser_job_description.jsp

Good luck

Els x

pinkshoes

I thought event managers were on the decline, and were one of the first things to be axed during the recession??

Might be wise finding someone who works in this field and see what it's like, and how business has been?

Oldernotwiser

What sort of area do you live in; is it affluent or is there a lot of unemployment?

bhz-2

Elsie, thanks for the links. I'll have a look at them soon.

I don't really know anyone in the field, but I'll ask around.

My area is not affluent, but it's not a deprived area either. There's a city about 40 miles away, with many conference venues.

vixarooni

I did a tourism HND which i topped up to a degree and within that we had events managment. It was a fun course and within that we organised the higher education open day for our college. I would see what hands on experience you get during your studies, have a look at any jobs available now, and if you do go for it get to know as many people in the events field as possible!

RedSoleShoes

I have worked in a hotel in the past and the events team were seriously overworked and underpaid! They were always stressed and working longer hours than any of the other admin staff. I think it is a bit like being an air steward, it looks a lot more glamorous than it is in reality.