Meeting Planning Defined

Ever wondered how to explain all that you do to your family and friends, or the board you report to?

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics devotes several pages on its website to what’s entailed in the job of meeting and convention planning—most of which you probably know, but it’s a good read and it also offers job outlooks and earnings projections.

The basic definition? “Meetings and conventions bring people together for a common purpose, and meeting and convention planners work to ensure that this purpose is achieved seamlessly. Meeting planners coordinate every detail of meetings and conventions, from the speakers and meeting location to arranging for printed materials and audio-visual equipment.”

The work may be considered either stressful or energizing, but there is no question that it is fast-paced and demanding, according to the U. S. Department of Labor. “Planners oversee multiple operations at one time, face numerous deadlines, and orchestrate the activities of several different groups of people.”

Some physical activity is required, including long hours of standing and walking and some lifting and carrying of boxes of materials, exhibits, or supplies. Planners work with the public and with workers from diverse backgrounds.

Whether you’re a paid planner or you volunteered to help plan your group’s next meeting, there are added benefits to all the multi-tasking. The report finds that planners sometimes get to travel to beautiful hotels and interesting places; meet speakers and meeting attendees from around the world; and usually enjoy a high level of autonomy.

Tell us what you think of your job.