8 Tips for Emerging Event Management Students

Officially breaking into the professional world of Event Management can be an extremely exciting time in your life. In the last few weeks students across the United States have been going back to college, selecting majors, and planning their final year before embarking on new experiences in the professional world. For those studying event planning and management, we have curated 8 pieces of advice from our own Kahn’s Catering event professionals that can help you make the most of your budding career in this fast-paced industry.

1. Join professional organizations.
When you are new to any industry a fantastic way to meet other professionals is through professional clubs, groups and organizations. Joining industry-specific groups is a great way to connect with others in the event industry beyond campus while staying within your community. Often times a discounted student membership is available to those soon-to-graduate or recent graduates just starting out. Take the opportunity to ask questions, learn more about the industry and discover your interests by attending meetings and events.

2. Gain a variety of experience.
Many event professionals start out in one type of event niche and don’t take the time to expand their horizons. Learn as many aspects of the industry as possible. You may not like all of them, but give yourself a well rounded approach towards any operation. Try job shadowing for different types of positions. You can always learn a unique perspective by volunteering to manage and events in your community.

Start from the bottom and work way to the position you desire by learning all aspects of the operations. You’ll be better prepared to plan events and have a stronger advantage over your peers that haven’t. This will help you sell with confidence and have success. – Joe Husar, owner of Kahn’s Catering

3. Intern in your niche.

Once you spend time exploring and gaining knowledge, find a quality, hands-on learning experience within your niche. This might present itself as an internship or an entry-level job, but you want to find something that will propel you towards becoming a leader in your sector of the market.

4. Network
Throughout college you’ll hear it on repeat several times. Network! Network! Network! You never know who you will meet or who they will become. Making connections early on in the college experience and cultivating those relationships will help you transition into a professional career. Not only will you meet individuals that could become your coworkers, but you can also meet individuals that might become your clients.

If you are first to connect most times your will be first to book and secure the business. Create strong relationships with potential clients throughout your career and keep in contact. – Joe Husar, owner of Kahn’s Catering

5. Stay receptive to feedback
Constructive criticism can be difficult to accept, but feedback is an important part of addressing strengths and weaknesses towards future success. Take each feedback as opportunity to improve! Improving yourself professionally can go a long way when it comes to getting a job or working on an event team.

6. Attend conferences and networking events.
Many conferences provide information on cutting edge tactics that are sure to set you apart from others in the industry. Events like this can provide you with excellent continued learning opportunities and the chance to build relationships from different areas outside of your local community.

7. Find your outlet
The event industry is one of the most stressful jobs in the world. Since you’ve decided to join it, find a good outlet to help you relieve stress and keep your mind healthy. This can be a challenge early in your career, but the work will still be there once you’ve taken the opportunity to take care of yourself. Time management will be your biggest asset in any position in this field.

This is not a 9-5 job. Be prepared to commit 5-6 days a week.  Hard work and perseverance will win in the end- you will only succeed if you work beyond your basic hours of business.  This industry calls for longer hours several nights a week.  – Joe Husar, owner of Kahn’s Catering

8. Never stop learning
Learning can come in many forms and fashions these days, but it truly never stops for anyone working in the event industry. The business world is constantly evolving, so do your part to stay educated and knowledgeable on trends and what is attractive to potential clients. Stay on the front line of the industry by reading blogs, watching podcasts, and attending webinars.

There are many different choices to make and directions to explore. The tips above are the best encouragement and perspective we can provide to future event managers. Take your time and know that you have made an awesome choice to join this fabulous industry. Read Kahn’s Catering event planning advice and learn from us!

Are you an event management student looking for a way to become involved in the event industry? We are currently hiring catering servers. Download an application and email it to info@kahnscatering.com, subject line – Employment Application for Steven,  or visit our office Monday – Friday 9am-5pm.