What is a convention manager and how to become one

Key steps to become a convention manager

1. Explore convention manager education requirements

   Most common convention manager degrees

   Bachelor's

   73.2 %

   Associate

   11.2 %

   Master's

   6.1 %

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2. Start to develop specific convention manager skills

   Skills	Percentages
   Audio Visual	15.42%
   Reservations	6.99%
   BEO	6.14%
   Logistics	6.13%
   Planning Process	5.72%

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3. Complete relevant convention manager training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 1-2 years on post-employment, on-the-job training. New convention managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a convention manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real convention manager resumes.

4. Research convention manager duties and responsibilities

   • Work closely with the banquet department and culinary team to achieve outstanding food and beverage service.
   • Handle all aspects of convention planning including agenda, guest room reservations, outside activities, and grind transportation.
   • Coordinate staff and VIP travel and housing.
   • Develop a program for tracking individual and department revenue (prior to Delphi).

5. Apply for convention manager jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a convention manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams