Graduates
We literally receive hundreds of approaches from graduates looking to follow their dreams and work in the events industry. Whilst we would love to be able to help each person, this sector of the market is also very competitive.
With a degree in event management providing graduates with a relevant theoretical and vocational course of study as well as a years’ work experience in the industry, those without an events or hospitality related degree will need some solid, relevant work experience within the field and excellent administration skills. The reality is that with a non-related degree and no events experience, securing that first job in events is really a job in itself.
The graduate market relies heavily on direct, often speculative applications rather than the recruitment consultancy route, although we do market such positions from time to time. Many companies just can't justify going to a third party such as ourselves to fill pure graduate roles.
Our advice to you is that if you are serious about entering the events industry, try to get some hands on work experience. You may be able to get some paid work, but are more likely to be successful if you volunteer your services. You could try charities or perhaps even easier use your resources at university. See if you can get on the events team at your student's union, helping to organise functions, especially your summer ball. There are various committees’, maybe even a radio station and someone may need some help somewhere on your campus. If you have recently graduated and haven’t been involved in any event management to date, perhaps you should ask yourself why not, if you really have the aptitude, why hasn’t events organisation been part of your life so far?
Networking is a great way to get a job…….the more people you speak to and put yourself in front off, the more likely you are to open doors.
To familiarise yourself with the industry and current hot topics, make sure you arm yourself with and regularly read the following trade magazines and visit trade shows:
Event
C&IT
Meetings and Incentive Travel
Conference News
Exhibition Bulletin
Exhibition News
Access all Areas
You can also try these websites for reference:
Graduate Advice Clinic
New dates for your diary..... The Graduate Advice Clinic for the Events Industry is back! If you have an event related qualification or previous events experience and would like to learn more about the industry in general as well as top tips on how to get your foot on the ladder in a competitive market then this event is for you!
The clinic will provide you with essential information on;
- How to break into the industry, now that you have your degree
- How to create the best first impression with your CV
- Interview techniques
- Useful websites & t rade Press publications
- Details on where to look for a job and networking opportunitie s
The upcoming scheduled dates are as below:
April
24th April 2009 - 12:00
May
08th May 2009 - 12:00
22nd May 2009 - 12:00
Please be aware that there are limited spaces available for each clinic, so please do let me know if you would like to attend, and on which day.
PLEASE NOTE - we are only able to assist candidates with an events degree or solid relevant experience within events management.
If you would like to attend a session please contact Kelly on kelly@esprecruitment.co.uk with your preferred date.