Interning at an event management company that
runs its own and clients’ events, it’s almost impossible to be left with
nothing to do. With at least five events occurring from May to July- two of
them being their own- work at Event and Conference Co lately has been nothing
short of busy. There’s media releases to be sent out, clients, venues and
special guests to liaise with, marketing ideas to be formulated and executed,
and most importantly; RESEARCH TO BE DONE!
Though often tedious and time-consuming, I’ve
found research to be one of the most important aspects of my work, whether it
be for event planning or solely for public relations purposes. Throughout my
time at Curtin, the importance of research and knowing what you’re talking
about and who you’re talking to has been stressed in each and every PR unit.
I’ve always been aware that there is a significant amount of research behind
events, but I’ve never really understood how much until now.
This research has been centred on an upcoming
formal event in July, dedicated to Perth’s emergency service men and women.
With an event in honour of a particular group of people, ensuring we have the
right guests, sponsors and a suitable venue has been a painstakingly long task.
It has been my responsibility to create a comprehensive database of both
potential event sponsors and invited guests. I made it my mission to make these
databases as complete and concise as possible, considering all paid workers as
well as volunteers in the metropolitan area. I then widened my search to
consider other professions, such as psychologists and lawyers; that may help
these service men and women within and beyond their job descriptions.
Completing this database was one of the longest
tasks I've been given at my internship, and by no means did I consider it to be
a complete and comprehensive list of all individuals associated with emergency
services in Perth. That list could have gone on forever! For me, this task emphasised the importance of research, and
just how much is necessary to contribute to a successful event. This task
tested my work ethic, and made me realize how important it is to research your
guests rather than inviting everyone and anyone to a formal event, or any
particular company rather than targeting organisations with common interests
relating to your cause.
Until next time,
Clare
