After over two decades immersed in the world of events, I still count myself incredibly fortunate to be working in a field that I am passionate about. The dynamic nature of events, where no two days are alike, is what fuels my enthusiasm. I thrive on the challenges they present, relishing the process of transforming ideas into tangible experiences for others to enjoy.
Throughout my career, I’ve occupied various roles across the spectrum, learning valuable lessons by rolling up my sleeves and often rectifying my own mistakes. Perfection has never been my goal, recognising its elusive nature. However, I’ve recently found myself perplexed by how swiftly the new generation of event managers seems to master the craft, surpassing my own knowledge after just a few years in the field.
Entering my forties, retirement is not yet on my radar, but I can’t help but wonder if I’ve overlooked something. Is there a secret fast track society to which I was never privy? Or perhaps I was simply a slow learner? Alternatively, could it be that advancements in technology have made event planning more accessible?
In my observation, it appears that the newcomers to the workforce are less inclined to endure the rigors of apprenticeship, preferring instantaneous access to knowledge over the gradual accumulation of skills through hands-on experience.
The ubiquity of information, thanks to platforms like Google (although I managed to pull off some remarkable events without a smartphone), has altered the learning landscape. Consulting a search engine often supersedes seeking guidance from seasoned professionals and learning through trial and error.
Recognising this shift, I feel compelled to share insights gleaned from organising more than just a handful of events. If the main way to share my knowledge is through blogs or online forums, then count me in.
In an effort to support those eager to learn from seasoned event managers, I intend to document my experiences, highlighting best practices, significant blunders, and offering my perspective on the events industry.
I make no claims to perfection or industry leadership; I am always evolving, embracing new technologies and techniques as they emerge. However, I hope that by sharing the day-to-day realities of event planning, I can assist others in laying a solid foundation for their journey towards creating exceptional events.
