Why More Event Professionals are Choosing Freelance Over Full-Time Employment
In the fast-paced world of event planning, many professionals are waving goodbye to traditional full-time roles in favor of the freedom and flexibility that freelance work offers. The trend is clear, and the statistics speak for themselves. At Plannernet, nearly 1,000 event freelancers have joined our talent network since 2021.
Plannernet’s VP of Supplier Relations, Sarah Robbins has seen this growth first-hand and says “While some industries are opting to stick with ‘traditional staffing models’, many others are embracing freelancers as a major ingredient to their event success. Either way, the future of work will continue to shift in this direction, and in an ever-evolving business landscape, blending freelancers with your full-time employees will become a key strategy to optimizing your meeting and event workforce.”
A Shift in Priorities
In recent years, the priorities of meeting and event professionals have shifted dramatically. Work-life balance, flexibility, and the ability to choose meaningful projects have taken precedence over the stability of a full-time job.
The Desire for Flexibility
According to a survey of over 3,000 freelance meeting & event professionals, Plannernet found a staggering 77% transitioned to freelance work for the overall flexibility it provides.
Choosing Meaningful Work
70% of those who switched to freelance did so to focus on the work they love, knowing they’d have the autonomy to choose projects that align with their interests, unique skills, and passions.
Setting Your Own Hours
60% of respondents went freelance to set their own working hours. According to PCMA, 36% of event freelancers are caretakers of family members, so waving goodbye to the traditional 9-5 allows for both personal and professional productivity.
Event Freelancers are VERY Satisfied
An impressive 98% report being satisfied with owning their own business. The ability to control their career, choose their clients, and work on projects that inspire them contributes significantly to this high satisfaction.
Impact on Talent Acquisition
As the event planning landscape shifts towards a more freelance-oriented model, companies will need to adapt their talent acquisition strategies to find the best meeting and event professionals. In the not-so-distant future, traditional hiring practices may give way to innovative approaches that leverage technology-enabled outsourcing solutions.
Moreover, a new emphasis on diverse skill sets means companies will be seeking talent with multifaceted expertise—those who can navigate the entire event lifecycle fluently.
As companies continually become more attuned to the value of sustainability, they will also look for talent that embodies eco-conscious practices and innovative thinking. This evolution calls for a more dynamic approach, where employers actively engage in flexible, ongoing relationships with freelance talent local to their event locations.
It’s no longer just about filling a role; it’s about curating a talent pool that can adapt, innovate, and thrive in the fast-paced world of meetings and events.
The Role of Plannernet
Plannernet is a flexible talent solution connecting businesses with proven meeting and event professionals. By leveraging Plannernet, you can access a vast network of experienced freelancers who can quickly fill critical skills gaps and enhance your team.
Expertise and Qualifications
Plannernet’s network includes professionals with diverse expertise and qualifications, ensuring that you can find the right talent for any aspect of your event. Whether you need project management, Cvent expertise, venue sourcing, or an AV technician, Plannernet has you covered.
Simplifying the Process
Plannernet removes the administrative burdens of finding, engaging, and paying freelance professionals. This streamlined process allows you to focus on what you do best—planning and executing exceptional events.
Final Thoughts
The shift towards freelancing in the event planning industry is undeniable. Top professionals are prioritizing flexibility, meaningful work, and geographic freedom over traditional full-time roles. With the support of Plannernet, making the transition can be a seamless experience for both freelancers and organizations looking to leverage them.
If you’re ready to access our network of event freelancers, or you’re considering joining Plannernet’s talent network, contact an expert today!
