What I Learned at Pentaxml
What I have learned at Penta:
As my time with Penta comes to an end, I wanted to share what I have learned from this internship.
One: Networking is important. Working with Penta I have learned that networking is a huge part of an event planner’s job. Networking events are something one must attend in this industry. While attending these events, you can meet potential clients, other event planners, vendors, journalists, and bloggers. I have found it is important to take the time to introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and see how you can help each other out in the future. When attending these events, I began to see some familiar faces on more then one occasion. It is important to make a good first impression because you never know when you’ll meet them again.
Two: Event planning is not your average 9 to 5 job. I have experienced many different events, company picnics, holiday parties, corporate meetings, weddings and more. I have learned that the event planner is the first one to arrive and the last one to leave. I have woke up at 4 in the morning to be at an event and did not get home until midnight that evening.
Three: Social Networking is here to stay. If you are going to be in the event planning industry, or any industry these days, social networking is a must. I have learned that you will need a Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, website and blog to have a successful business. Having these social media sites is one more way to connect with people, advertise events and reach out to potential clients.
Four: There is more to event planning than just parties. Being an event planner you do have a chance to be creative and brainstorm, but there is another side to event planning. Many days I find myself behind a desk, actively working with MS Word and Excel, writing emails, making phone calls and other administrative duties. Although this side to event planning isn’t as exciting, it is still important to the job.
Five: Don’t get discouraged. Clients can and will change their minds. Sometimes changing their mind includes not using your services, which can be frustrating. Although projects/clients may go a different way, try to keep a positive, professional attitude. Also, stay in touch with all potential clients for future opportunities.
Overall, my advice for future event planning interns is to take every opportunity your internship gives you. Go to the networking events, work hard on any task you are given, and don’t be afraid to offer your opinion. I have loved my time here at Penta. I am thankful for Michele and Emily for giving me this opportunity.
–Casey Gallagher