what is an event coordinator?
As an event coordinator, your primary role is to execute an event and bring it to life rather than design it. You are responsible for the organisation at the venue on the day of the event. Most special occasions or corporate events require lots of preparation and contractors. It is crucial for the preparations and vendors to line up correctly to ensure a successful day. As an event coordinator, you work behind the scenes to ensure the vendors complete their roles as expected and the event schedule is adhered to. You may be involved in the planning stages, but your work doesn't involve designing the event. You focus on directing and scheduling event staff.
A good event coordinator has an eye for detail and excellent coordination skills. The role involves juggling multiple tasks and solving any problems that arise. Hence, it is important to be good at multi-tasking and able to think on your feet. Effective time management skills are also vital in this role.
Event coordinators work in different industries. You can work in the events industry or with non-governmental and charitable organisations planning various events. Working in the events industry allows you to plan diverse events, from weddings to corporate parties.
event coordinator jobs
average salary of an event coordinator
According to Payscale, the average salary of an event coordinator is ₹301,551 per year. In entry-level positions and early careers, an event coordinator earns a salary of ₹246,303 to ₹293,959 per year. The highest salary of an event coordinator is ₹591,000 annually. The compensation package may include various benefits or bonuses, depending on the organisation.
what factors affect the salary of an event coordinator?
Event coordinator earnings differ based on qualifications and skill level. When you are new to the role, you are likely to earn less as you learn the ropes. However, as you improve your experience and qualifications, your pay also increases to reflect your expertise. The types of events you handle could also influence your pay scale. Event coordinators handling large corporate events or conferences take home a substantial paycheck due to the complexity of the role. Small events with low budgets are reflected in lower salaries.
Working for large organisations improves your compensation prospects since they have more resources and are likely to plan huge events, unlike small companies. Planning events in major cities pays more than working in smaller towns. Employers usually factor in the cost of living in large cities when determining your salary.
types of event coordinators
As an event coordinator, you can specialise in the following roles:
- general event coordinator: you coordinate a range of events in various industries. You can coordinate large conventions, weddings and small parties. The role requires experience managing diverse events, from conferences to fundraising galas and weddings.
- wedding coordinators: as a seasoned wedding planner, you coordinate your client's wedding and ensure their big day goes as planned. You schedule the event and coordinate with vendors to ensure everything is seamless.
- charity event coordinator: as an event coordinator for charity organisations and not-for-profit companies, you organise fundraising events to solicit donations for your clients. You ensure the vendors deliver on time and adhere to the schedule.
working as an event coordinator
As an event coordinator, you help companies and individuals execute successful events. If you are interested in the role, check out the specific duties and career prospects.
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duties and responsibilities
Some of the duties of an event coordinator include the following:
- assisting in planning events: as an event coordinator, you help your client define the scope of the event. You assist them in defining the theme, date, time and number of attendees. If you are planning a conference, you organise the required facilities and logistics. When your client has decided on the scope of the wedding, you assist with planning.
- bidding and managing contracts: as an event planner, your job is to execute the event plan, which starts with finding vendors and drawing up contracts. You organise contract bidding for the venue, catering, accommodation and transport. You determine the requirements before soliciting services for the event. You also draw up the contracts and pay subcontractors.
- organising logistics for the event: as the event coordinator, you are in charge of all the moving pieces at the event, and you work behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. You set up the registration tables, reception areas and dining rooms and ensure guests don't get lost in the venue. You also create designated areas for VIP guests and manage press and security issues.
- tracking the budget: as an event coordinator, you track the expenses during an event. It is crucial to ensure the vendors stick to the budget. If the event runs for a few days, you track the daily expenditure and report the deviations from the budget to the event planner or manager. You also note any necessary additions like additional security or the need for an alcohol licence.
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work environment
As an event coordinator, you work indoors and outdoors. During the planning stages of an event, you prepare the necessary documentation and draft contracts for various vendors. Event coordinators also work outdoors, especially when organising an outdoor event like a destination wedding.
The role of an event coordinator involves a lot of travelling. For instance, you meet clients at their homes or offices. You also visit multiple locations when choosing a venue for the event and organising other logistics. You are constantly on your feet during the event to ensure everything is running smoothly.
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who are your colleagues?
As an event coordinator, you work alongside event planners, event managers and hotel managers. You are also likely to work with accountants and marketing executives, as well as other professionals, including marketing managers, florists and communications managers
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work schedule
Event coordinators have a regular work schedule of 40 hours a week during the planning stages. When the event commences, you work additional hours as required. Sometimes, you have to work evenings if you are coordinating an evening party or during the weekends for weddings and galas.
Event coordinators can work full-time, part-time or on a contract basis. Part-time and contract roles are common during busy holiday periods when many events happen. Most contractual roles are for freelancers or independent contractors.
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job outlook
As an event coordinator, you have exciting opportunities for career progression. You start your career as an entry-level coordinator before becoming the senior or lead event coordinator. Alternatively, explore other roles in event management, like event planner or event manager. Some event coordinators specialise in specific roles like event social media coordinator or become catering service managers. When you have extensive experience, you can start an event planning company.
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advantages of finding an event coordinator job through randstad
Finding your event coordinator job through Randstad provides important advantages such as the following:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as an event coordinator is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
education and skills
The minimum requirement for becoming an event coordinator is a bachelor's degree. To qualify for the degree programme, you must clear the 10+2 with an aggregate of 50%. Event coordinators have to complete the 10+2 exams in economics, maths, business studies and statistics. Additionally, the following gives you an edge in event coordination:
- bachelor's degree: passing the 10+2 and the university entrance exam gets you admission. Event coordinators pursue a bachelor's degree programme in event management or hospitality and hotel management. A degree in mass communication or business administration also gets you into the role.
- experience: apart from educational qualifications, you require hands-on experience in running events. You can start as an assistant event coordinator before becoming an event coordinator.
skills and competencies
Successful event coordinators have the following sets of skills:
- creativity: thinking outside the box is a valuable skill in event coordination. Your creativity makes events unique; otherwise, every product launch or convention would be dull. When you are creative, you can suggest unique themes and concepts that make the event stand out.
- problem-solving skills: even the most elaborate plan can encounter setbacks. When something goes wrong during an event, it is important to resolve problems fast. Your ability to think on your feet or improvise helps you avoid disasters at events.
- organisational skills: as an event coordinator, being a meticulous planner is priceless. Your organisational skills help you stick to a schedule and ensure every task is allocated. You also cover your bases and avoid problems arising during the event.
- time management: events have strict schedules to avoid chaos. It is important to set a reasonable schedule and manage the time of everyone in charge of the event. Good time management skills ensure the event runs smoothly.
- communication skills: as an event coordinator, you keep everyone in the loop, from the clients to the waiting staff and security personnel. Communication skills also help you become a good listener and understand your client's needs.
FAQs about working as an event coordinator
Here are some common questions about working as a event coordinator:
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what is the job of an event coordinator?
As an event coordinator, you are responsible for various events-related tasks. You work with vendors and staff to ensure a successful event. Apart from coordinating resources, you also direct visitors and deal with issues that arise.
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how much does an event coordinator earn in india?
An event coordinator earns an average salary of ₹301,551 per year. The compensation package depends on the level of responsibility and on experience. Coordinating large events usually attracts higher salaries.
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is an event coordinator the same as an event planner?
An event planner is involved in the design stage. They attend meetings with clients to determine the type of event and expectations before creating a plan. As an event coordinator, you execute the plan developed by the event planner. Your role involves looking for vendors and venues to actualise the event.
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what are the relevant skills of an event coordinator?
As an event coordinator, your job requires exceptional planning and organisational skills. It is also important to be quick-thinking enough to solve problems that arise during the event. Decision-making skills help you act fast under pressure.
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is event coordinator a stressful job?
Yes. Event coordination is a high-pressure job due to the numerous moving pieces. However, with good planning and time management, you can minimise stress.
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how do I apply for an event coordinator vacancy?
Applying for an event coordinator job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!