So you are going to appear in a conference planner interview soon. The following tips and common interview questions and answers will guide you in this regard.
How to Prepare for a Conference Planner Interview?
- Research the prospective company and the position by the internet and other resources
- Take a test drive to the location of the interview to ensure that you are aware of directions and the time that it will take to get there
- Dress appropriately, conservatively, and professionally
- Prepare at least 3 questions for when or if you will be given a chance to ask them
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before the interview time
- Bring extra resumes and a portfolio (if applicable)
- Be personable by greeting the staff and interviewer with a smile
- Offer a solid handshake
- Make a good eye contact
- Do not sit down before the interviewer does
- Do not fidget with pens, paper, or your hands
- Do not speak too fast
- Do not criticize previous employers or supervisors
A good compilation of interview tips is not all that we are providing you with. Here are actual questions (and their answers) that you may be asked at an interview for a conference planner position:
Conference Planner Interview Questions and Answers
1. How is conference planning different from event planning?
There isn’t much difference except maybe the fact that event planning does not restrict you. However, there are many creative things that you can do when planning a conference as well.
2. What is your prime strategy when planning a conference?
Strategizing actually depends on the logistics of the conference being planned. I gather details, decide budgets, secure locations and ensure that appropriate service providers are hired. Additionally, I make sure that there are no clashes with other ongoing projects, especially at the time of member registration.
3. Tell us of a time when you were especially stumped while planning the logistics of a conference.
Things do not always go as planned. There was a time when I was planning a conference for some foreign delegates from India that the company was expecting. Despite performing a lot of research, I managed to goof up the catering. For a mostly vegetarian crowd, I ended up ordering many meat dishes, which was an instant blow. Needless to say, I had to apologize profusely and make amends for my mistake.
4. What are considered the most important skills in conference planning?
Excellent time management and sales skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously are the most important ones. Other skills that are needed to handle conference planning properly include the ability to negotiate contracts and publicize events.