Flexible Working in the Events Industry: Attracting Top Talent

In the ever-evolving landscape of the events industry, one thing remains clear: flexibility is not just a perk but a necessity.?As clients and delegates have higher demands / expectations the need for skilled professionals who can rise to the occasion is greater than ever. However, attracting these top-tier candidates goes beyond offering competitive salaries or impressive job titles—it's about embracing a culture of flexibility.

“In the world of recruitment we find that roles advertised as office based, with no hybrid option get considerably less attention and applications compared to their hybrid counterparts. These roles then rely having a strong USP to draw in the interest of top tier candidates.”– Sabrina Pattison , Account Director at Live recruitment

The Ideal Candidate

Today, the ideal candidate isn't just someone with a list of qualifications. They are professionals with diverse experiences, refined skills, and a personality that meshes seamlessly with your team to create your ideal candidate. This type of talent brings more experience, a better team fit and enhanced skills.?

More Experience - Experience is the backbone of success in the events industry. Whether it's orchestrating a flawless product launch or coordinating a large-scale conference, seasoned professionals bring a wealth of knowledge that can't be taught in textbooks.

Better Team Fit - Cultural fit is paramount in any team setting. Candidates who align with a company's values and work culture not only boost morale but also enhance collaboration and productivity.

Enhanced Skills - From negotiating with suppliers to managing budgets and timelines, skilled candidates are equipped to navigate the complexities of event planning with finesse.

The Candidate-Driven Market

In today's job market, candidates still very much hold the reins. With the ability to cherry-pick roles that offer the best fit, best salary, and work-life balance, they are in high demand. This is where flexible working arrangements come into play.

Roles that offer flexibility stand out as beacons of opportunity. They signal to candidates that their well-being and work-life balance are valued.?

On the flip side, positions without this flexibility may struggle to attract top-tier talent. These roles can often be viewed as less desirable, leading to a pool of candidates who might not meet the high standards set by the industry and your business, thus making your talent search trickier.

Breaking the Mold

It's no secret that traditional, "old school" companies can be resistant to change. However, in the competitive world of events, adaptability is key to survival. Companies stuck in rigid work structures, maintain a 5 day a week office only policy, risk missing out on the best candidates.

On the other hand, forward-thinking and innovative companies are leading the charge by embracing flexibility. By offering remote work options, flexible hours, or even job-sharing arrangements, they create an environment where talent thrives.?

These companies understand that attracting top talent requires more than a competitive salary—it demands a commitment to meeting the needs of modern professionals.

“We are still finding that flexible and hybrid working is still very much at the top of most candidates’ wish list.? When they have 2 or 3 job offers on the table, they are considering the flexible working policy, salary, and overall benefit package that’s on offer when deciding which role to accept!” – Sabrina Pattison , Account Director at Live recruitment

Summary

As the events industry continues to evolve, flexibility remains a linchpin for success. Embracing flexible working arrangements not only attracts top talent but also fosters a culture of innovation and adaptability.?

Companies that resist this shift may find themselves falling behind, while those that embrace it position themselves as leaders in the industry.

In this candidate-driven market, the choice is clear: adapt and thrive, or remain stagnant and risk missing out on the best and brightest.?

Flexible working isn't just a trend—it's a strategic advantage that opens doors to a wealth of talent, ensuring the success of events now and in the future.