*The world of events can be enticing - loud music, bright lights, and exciting tech combine for an intoxicating atmosphere. But if you're looking for a career in the industry, and you're just starting out, what should you know?*Live events are an exciting career proposition. We love delivering live events for our clients, and while it can be incredibly demanding, it is a unique job that gives unparalleled opportunities and experiences. So if you want to join this world, what should you know?
Start at the Bottom
It may sound obvious, but it can be important to 'pay your dues' by starting in the most junior role. Whether that's volunteering at your local festival or event space, or working as an apprentice, starting at the bottom teaches you a variety of skills that lay the foundation for a good career.
While it may be frustrating to be making the tea when you have a degree in events management, it will introduce you to all the different roles, levels, and responsibilities within a good team. From there, you can better understand what everyone does and where you might want to go next. Also, humility can go a long way when trying to build relationships!
Learn as much as you can
The live events industry is constantly changing, and those who adapt and stay up to date will be the most in demand by employers and clients. Make sure you take advantage of training opportunities, courses, and experiences that are open to you. That extends well beyond your formal education and training - don't be under any illusion, the best event directors and heads of production will still be consistently training and investing in themselves.
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Understand the different roles
The live events industry features so many different roles and disciplines. From live sound engineers and lighting technicians on the technical production teams, to designers and content creators, production managers, producers and event managers, a huge range of people and skills come together to create an event. When you first start out you may have a clear idea in mind of where you want to be, but don't be afraid of having a 'squiggly career' and moving between disciplines and roles. Some of the best production managers have started out as sound engineers, and some of the best event directors have started as production assistants.
Keep an open mind
As well as the above, it's critical to have an appreciation of other viewpoints and experiences. You might learn during your career that you enjoy working with catering teams and end up as the best event chef or catering manager there is! Treat everyone with respect and curiosity and you have no idea where your career will take you.
Moreover, even if you've decided that you're going to be an event manager and will 100% laser-focus your sights on that, you can be sure that an event manager needs to understand what good catering looks like, or what a rigger does, in order to get the best from their teams.
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Reach out and ask!
The most important thing you can do to gain experience and knowledge is speak to people. Many modern events businesses are friendly, approachable, and love their industry! So start researching the companies in your area, give them a call, and ask for their advice. They may even have some work opportunities that you can take advantage of.
PYTCH founder Johnny Palmer has filmed a video talking about his thoughts and experiences on live events, and you can watch it below.
https://youtu.be/olOqAW02ZQ0
If you'd like to get in touch regarding a career in events, you can call us on 0333 022 0171 or email hello@pytch.co.uk
