This week, we wanted to share a few tips with our readers about applying for a job within the event industry. As we frequently receive many job inquiries, we would like to share the seven tips we feel will be most helpful to keep in mind when applying.

Photo Credit: Kalyn Mann Photography

1. Always include a cover letter and attach a resume when contacting the company

The first thing potential employers look for when they receive your information is your resume and cover letter. They want to see if you have any relevant prior experience or education in the field in which you are applying, and how that experience translates into the position you’re looking to fill. For all they know, this could be your first job. They want to be able to look at your experience at a glance and know if you are a valuable lead that is worth pursuing.

2. Submit a reference letter if you do not have any previous experience

If you do not have any previous experience in the event industry, submit some type of reference letter along with your resume and cover letter. This letter can be from a teacher or previous employer and will allow your potential employer to learn about your skills and capabilities through the eyes of someone credible that has worked with you in the past, either on a professional or educational level.

3. Do your research about the company

You will appear very professional and prepared if you know the background information of the company to which you are applying. Knowing this information can also help you determine if you would be a good fit for that particular company. Read about the owner, and find out how and why he or she created their company. Determine what makes them stand out, and why you would want to work for them above another company.

4. Never contact the company through The Knot (or any other outside website)

If you are seeking employment within a company, do not reach out to them through a separate website that links to their email address. Instead, locate their email address on the company website. This shows that you’ve done your research and that you’ve taken the time to navigate through their site. Emailing the company directly looks much more professional, and will benefit you more than simply sending a message through The Knot (or other outside website).

Photo Credit: Kalyn Mann Photography

5. When writing a cover letter, include the following two items:

Your background

You should include information about your educational background, as well as your professional background, if it is relevant. Tell your employer where you went to college, if you have a degree (and what you studied), any relevant training programs or internships you’ve completed, and also prior work experience. However, do not just list this information (that’s what your resume is for). Use the cover letter to explain how those educational or professional experiences prepared you for this position, and how they will translate into the job.

Why you think the company is a good fit for you

Potential employers want to know why you think you belong with their company. They want to know what you can bring to the table, and how their company will benefit from having you on their team. This point goes along with #3 (do your research) - if you’ve done your research, and you know what the company stands for and what their philosophy is, then you should be able to determine how and why you are a good fit. If you do not believe you are a good fit, then simply do not apply.

6. You do not need to mention that you have a passion for weddings

We all love weddings - that's a given. Potential employers want to know if you're a good worker, and what type of skills you have that will benefit you in that position. Tell them why you think you’re a good fit, and what you can bring to the table.

7. Be aware of the fact that you will (most likely) not be able to get hired into a full-time position with a planning company

Most event planning companies hire either contract employees, or hire someone part-time within their company. It is rare for someone to apply for a position with a planner and get hired as a full-time employee. Know what to expect when you apply. Usually, when companies are looking for someone to fill a particular position, they will inform you of the potential hours that are expected to be completed in that position. Most of the time, the hours will be part-time.