Kathmandu:

For many of us parties, concerts, exhibitions are more of a good time away from day-to-day work. But for some, these events are not about taking a break from work, rather it is the work itself.

These people are the ‘event managers’ who make sure things run smoothly, and everything is in order so that we can enjoy the occasion without any hitch.

Ideas and lots more:

Event management is all about conceptualising, planning, budgeting, organising and executing events like dance parties, concerts, exhibitions, fashion or rock shows, beauty pageants, charity shows among many other things.

According to Prasannata Madan, General Manager of Kaal Bhairav Event and Management, it is a good and dynamic field where one can learn marketing, networking et cetera.

Coming up with an idea is just the beginning for an event manager. Since a lot of people are involved in organising an event, coordination and networking is the lifeline. An event manager has to look after all the components of the event. From sponsors to security, from arrangements of light and sound systems to ticket sales, there is no part that can be ignored. Furthermore s/he also needs to take care the event starts on time, runs smoothly and does not drag on forever.

An event manager’s job starts from time when the concept is born to the time the last piece of decorations is packed away. They have to be everywhere throughout the different phases of an event.

Qualities needed:

Sangeeta Thapa from Infinity says, “Patience and a firm belief in oneself is important in this field.”

Creativity, originality and innovative concepts are essential to make an event stand apart. Thus, the creative ability of a person is tested to the maximum. Networking and communication is another major factor. Girendra Man Rajbanshi, Managing Director of Hidden Treasure, says, “There are hundreds of people involved, hence coordination and communication at every step is very crucial.”

So, besides being creative, one should be good communicator and enjoy meeting people. According to Thapa, networking works from finding sponsors to selling tickets and to spread the “buzz” about the event. But above all, one should always be on their toes and be ready to work hard.

Charms and challenges:

For outsiders, this is a very glamourous career, but there are different challenges an event manager faces at every step of the job. This is a very demanding career and the result of his/her hard work — the event — is visible to anyone who attends the function. Their job demands perfection, attention to minute details and challenge of meeting deadlines within a budget.

Says Madan, “We have to deal with all kinds of people. We also have to manage everything within a given time by taking care of the nitty-gritty of all things.”

As for Rajbanshi, coming out with fresh concepts is the major challenge and also the greatest charm of his profession. Robin Sitaula of PartyNepal agrees with Rajbanshi.

Back-up plan is a must:

However, there are also many unseen problems for which an event manager should be prepared. There might occur some last minutes technical mishaps regardless of the perfect coordination and arrangements. For instance, on the first day of the gala opening of the Garden of Dreams, it rained and Thapa says she had to take a snap decision for crisis management.

Sitaula says, “You should be ready to face challenges, criticisms, and at times Nepal bandha…so always have a back up plan.”

It’s hard work:

One thing that an event manager should do is to make hard work his/her second nature. In Thapa’s words, it is “buckle up for hard work”. This is not a normal nine-to-five job. They have to work night and day to manage an event. They also have to be thorough in both planning and executing the event.

According to Madan, “Being up-to-date and informative is important so that one can come up with concepts that reflect the latest trends.”

For the aspirants :

As the concept of hiring a professional for events has been set in the mindset of Nepali people, this sector has much potential.

However, finding sponsors can be daunting. For those who want get into this field “starting small” is the mantra. Rajbanshi suggests people with new ideas should come forward and start something on their own. Sitaula says, “Keep working on your idea and never lose the vision of what you want to do.”

According to Thapa, the right way to start a career in this to kick off with small-scale projects.4

Mapping their success

Robin Sitaula: For me success is, seeing people come out with a great smile after attending the events that we do, and then I look forward to a new project.

Prasannata Madan: How much of my clients’ expectations that I’ve met decides the level of success.

Girendra Man Rajbanshi: The good impact on the audience and the constructive feedback I get defines success for me. The completion of the event is not the success.

Sangeeta Thapa: The honest feedback and ratings people give me help me know how successful my event was. I am only satisfied when the event happens without any hitch.

Thapa’s tips:

1. Never lose your cool.

2. Be prepared for anything.

3. Always keep accurate accounts.

4. Put all the details in the contract before signing it.

5. Always come up with fresh ideas: do not be boring by being repetitive.