Event management can help to build brand image and awareness, engage stakeholders, and offer a platform for effective PR communication.
INTRODUCTION
As a sports marketing student, I found this journey through the Portfolio V courses to be enlightening. The courses specifically in Sports Events and Entertainment and Business Project Management transformed my understanding. The most significant takeaway from these courses is the importance of planning and execution within the sector of project management. Regardless of how insignificant every element influences the overall success of an event. These concepts not only have a profound effect on my knowledge of the sports marketing landscape but also allow me to better prepare for my future career as a public relations coordinator. Working on projects like the WWE All-Star Gala and the WWE Ringside Champion event provided me with theoretical knowledge for practical situations while teaching me that successful event management requires a strategic approach. This semester, I was able to delve into the intricate details of how event management benefits all those involved, which could play a crucial role in my future work within the sports industry.
The Takeaways
The coursework also included the application of ideas in terms of project management, allowing for instructive understanding. Applying this was crucial in defining clear objectives and establishing measurable targets. During the planning sessions for the WWE Ringside Champion event, creating attendance goals, discovering revenue streams, and measuring community participation became abundantly clear how important objectives are to the process. Maintaining a sense of organization and concentration while dealing with several components made it more effective to allocate resources and visualize timeframes thanks to tools like Gantt charts and research.
Being introduced to essential frameworks has been instrumental in guiding me through various concepts. As a result, the methodologies incorporating stakeholder management have broadened my perspective. They also include risk assessment and effective communication. I understand how to implement them for projects in the sports industry. Gaining firsthand experience in identifying potential risks, like low ticket sales or staffing shortages, helped me understand that developing contingency plans is essential to mitigating them.
I confidently take a proactive approach to unforeseen challenges. I use various tools like Trello to keep the project organized. This helps track progress in real time. It also ensures tasks are delegated and completed. During my work on the gala, for instance, I focused on leveraging WWE’s brand presence to support local charities. I also researched ways to enhance community relations. This inspired me to consider how future events can not only entertain but also make a difference for others.
In Summary…
As I move forward in my studies and career, these lessons will enhance my understanding. I am grasping the fundamental principles of successfully completing projects in the sports marketing industry. It requires creating experiences that resonate with fans while understanding how to leverage a brand’s loyalty and fanbase. The core Portfolio V courses have equipped me with invaluable skills and insights that extend beyond the coursework. The lessons learned in event planning, project management, and community engagement will undoubtedly shape my approach as I pursue a career in sports marketing. Focusing on the elements of planning will allow me to effectively communicate the importance of social responsibility. I feel more prepared to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in this dynamic industry.
DeShawn Ellis 