04 May Why an Event Manager Should Be a Pessimist And an Optimist

It is my sincere opinion that a good event manager should be a pessimist first of all, and then an optimist second. This I believe sits well with me as a Gemini (the twins).

Before and during each event, I am considering all the things that could go wrong whilst at the same time thinking about how to resolve them….while remaining confident in my abilities. This is a habit I happen to have even when am dealing with the most trivial things and I have fun with it. For example, every time am passing through the third mainland bridge, I’m always picturing some kind of Avengers/Godzilla type of action happening with me being the hero that saves the day….lol.

People go to parties/events to have a great time and there is usually no in-between when judging how guests feel about an event. Guests usually rate events in four categories:

1. Awesome
2. Was Alright..
3. Meh..
4. Awful.

I only have two categories: Awesome and Bad. Bad, in my opinion begins from “was alright” because that sounds patronizing.

My tactic is to keep my eyes on the goal which is always to create an exceptional experience for each attendee and selling the client’s message in the best way possible. My tips on how to be a great event manager include:

1. Write it down. Create an elaborate work plan. I usually include even the little things.
2. Rehearse the event flow and brief all vendors and staff accordingly.
3. Provide for contingencies.
4. Talk to guests. You may learn about something to be improved upon.
5. If a staff is underperforming, during the event is not the time to fight.
6. Go the extra mile; you will know what the extra mile is when you see it.
7. Remain confident in your abilities.
8. Don’t ever lose that smile.

credit: Ijeoma Okoli