Job Application and Interview Tips for Event Professionals
Are you looking for a job in the event industry? We know how painful it is to even start writing an application (procrastination, anyone?), so we’d like to help you out with some hints for building a cover letter and by providing resume tips which will make prospective employers think, ‘I must have a conversation with this person!’
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As someone with a background in events, you’d be aware that as events roles are more specific than those in other industries, they require precise descriptions of your achievements. For example, if you’ve had a career as a stage manager, you should list the events you’ve worked on, the size of the audience, and the challenges you’ve encountered along the way and successfully overcome. For an employer, a solid example of an achievement in the world of events counts for a lot and makes your application real to them.
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Below are a number of things to be mindful of when preparing a good application
- Don’t include photos or your date of birth.
- Ensure that your online presence is up to date.
- Most employers use automated systems to sort through applications. The keywords you use should suit the job advertisement.
- The scattergun approach is out: it’s vital to tailor your resume and cover letter to each application.
- Put yourself in the role of the employer and take the time to work out what they would need from an employee.
- Dot points in your resume make it a quicker and easier read for an employer.
- List your achievements alongside responsibilities. If possible, make the achievements measurable, for example: ‘reduced expected installation time by 3 hours.’
- Tell the truth, but tailor the description to make it attractive and relevant to the employer.
- Proofread your application and ask someone else to have a look, too.
- Follow up your submitted application with a phone call to the employer. It not only makes your name memorable when the employer is sifting through many applications, but gives you a chance to demonstrate your politeness and enthusiasm.
Now... interview time!
The event industry is largely personality-based, reliant on teamwork and great communication with your colleagues in order to successfully deliver the event. Whether you are a stage manager or a part of the lighting crew, being able to communicate what is needed to perform your task properly is critical.
Although the phrase ‘emotional intelligence’ is rarely used in the recruitment space, it pretty much sums up what you need to be a good event staff member. Being able to achieve effective harmony when engaged in highly stressful situations is an invaluable attribute. Therefore, if you can demonstrate likeability, a consensual approach to work, and a touch of humour in an interview with your prospective employer, you will already be ahead of the game. A senior event manager does not want to be managing personality clashes while bringing together a stressful event, so demonstrate trustworthiness, cheerfulness and reliability at the first possible moment.
During the interview, make sure you discuss how you roll with difficulties or challenges and provide a number of examples. A good and thorough answer to this question is more vital in an event industry interview than the majority of other industries. General preparation such as gathering knowledge of the event, or similar events, will also stand you in excellent stead and assist you in asking knowledgeable questions about the job.
Remember, the event industry is a small world, and reputation counts a lot. Obtaining jobs through word-of-mouth concretely demonstrates your desirability as an employee. Having great referees proves your worth and also gives you a massive leg up.
Finally, the biggest tip. Show ENTHUSIASM (yes, with capital letters!). There is very little that works as well as hearing an interviewee’s keenness and excitement about being part of an event. Don’t worry about being cool, be eager!
We hope this has given you confidence and guidance when applying for jobs in the event industry. Start using these resume tips today.
Needing to write a great CV? Read our blog 10 CV Essentials for Event Professionals.
Good luck!
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