Building a career in event planning takes hard work and dedication. But with the right approach, you can build a highly rewarding career in event planning. At TISOH, the International School of Hospitality, we support our students every step of the way as they work their way from student to successful working professional. If you are interested in making event planning your career, here are some suggestions to get you started.

• Get Educated: Getting educated is a great way to start your career. While a formal education in event planning isn't necessarily required, it can help you develop the skills and knowledge you'll need to be successful in a short period of time and ensure that you learn the right way. There are educational institutions that offer event planning or hospitality programs, which can be a great place to start. First, decide whether you want a degree, a certificate, or a diploma. Degrees take years while certificates and diplomas take months, and you can learn what you need and get started with certificates and diplomas. Make sure you pick a program that is accredited from a U.S. Department of Education recognized agency. 
• Build a Portfolio: A portfolio is a collection of photos, testimonials, and other materials that showcase your work and style as an event planner. Having a strong portfolio can help you to attract new clients and land new jobs. As you plan and execute events, be sure to take plenty of photos and ask for testimonials from your clients.
• Network! Networking is everything. Building connections and networking is essential to success in the event planning industry. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with other event planners, vendors, and industry professionals. This will help you gain visibility, knowledge and a support system within the industry. 
• Consider Specializing: Event planning is a diverse field, and you can specialize in certain types of events. This will help you stand out and attract specific clients. Your specialty could be a specific type of event such as festivals, conferences or product launches.
• Learn the Business Side: As an event planner, you'll need to be able to manage budgets, timelines, and contracts. Learning the business side of planning will help you to be more effective and efficient in your work, and it will also make you more valuable to clients.
• Work Hard: Building a career in event planning requires hard work, dedication, and perseverance. You may not land your dream job right away, but if you're persistent and stay true to your passion, you'll be able to achieve your goals.

Building a career in event planning requires a combination of education, hard work, and perseverance. By getting educated, building a portfolio, networking, and specializing in certain types of events, you can develop the skills and knowledge you'll need to be a successful event planner. Additionally, understanding the business side of planning and being persistent, adaptable and open to learning will help you succeed in the long run.

The return of meetings and events means that this huge sector of the hospitality industry will rely upon a talented body of professionals who are responsible for creating, organizing, and executing complex gatherings. At TISOH, the International School of Hospitality, we are at the forefront of developing and cultivating these event professionals. 

TISOH, located in the heart of Las Vegas itself, specializes in training motivated individuals for careers in the hospitality industry, including in conferences, meetings, and event planning. At TISOH, students learn planning, production, organization, and design, to create effective meetings and innovative events of any scale and style. Students learn how to evaluate, select, and negotiate for all aspects of any kind of meeting or event: design, logistics, catering and more. Students interested in this career path choose between pursuing a Diploma in Hospitality Operations, with an Event Planning focus, or earning individual certificates with TISOH’s single-topic, focused certificate programs in Conference Management and Event Planning, Event and Design Planning, and Exhibition and Tradeshow Management. Available in class or online, all courses are taught by professional faculty with deep industry experience, and students benefit from their expertise, as well as guest lecturers and expert panels.

With the return of signature conventions and events, consider training for a career in meeting and event planning to become part of the excitement. With TISOH, the International School of Hospitality, you can gain the knowledge and skills you need to make the exciting world of meetings, events and conventions your career. Contact us today to learn more!