When I first started organizing Business Events, I often found myself wondering how we could ever compete with the big companies. We were a small local DMC/ PCO ( Destination Management Company Professional Conference Organizer) —less experience, fewer resources, and no global name behind us.
And let’s be honest: the industry can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting out. You’re up against well-known agencies with big teams, polished portfolios, and long client lists.
But instead of getting stuck in the comparison trap, I chose to focus on what we could do.
We visited clients.
We showed up at trade shows.
We made prospect calls.
We gave every pitch our best shot.
And most importantly—we believed in doing the work, even when the odds didn’t feel in our favor.
I still remember one pitch in particular. A five-star hotel we had worked with previously recommended us to a new client. That recommendation was unexpected—and encouraging—but the real challenge was just beginning. We were up against five other companies. And this client? Let’s just say, they didn’t hand out trust easily.
They asked tough questions.
They pushed back.
They made us work for it.
And deep down, I knew:
If we approached this project like it was our own—if we brought care, passion, and clarity to the table—there was a real chance we could win it.
Not everyone on my team felt confident.
The competition was fierce.
The room was intimidating.
But I reminded them: We show up, we do our best, and whatever happens—we walk away knowing we gave it our all.
If we didn’t win? The world wouldn’t end.
But we did win.
The event was a success.
And even more importantly—we earned the client’s trust.
And here’s the magic of that: when trust is built, future projects become less about pitching… and more about partnership.
That experience reminded me of something I’ve learned again and again: Success in Business Events doesn’t come from being the biggest name in the room.
It comes from mindset.
From doing the work.
From staying focused.
And from not letting comparison distract you from your own path.
We win some. We lose some. That’s the nature of the business. But there is enough work, enough opportunity, and yes—enough “fish in the ocean” for everyone.
And the right clients?
They will feel your energy when you show up with intention, care, and clarity.
So if you’re just getting started in this industry, here’s what I want you to know:
You don’t need to be the biggest to be trusted.
You don’t need to be loudest to be noticed.
You just need to bring your best—consistently and wholeheartedly.
And that mindset?
It will carry you when strategy feels uncertain.
It will build trust before your portfolio is full.
And it will open doors you never expected.
And if you’re ready to strengthen your mindset as you grow your career, grab this free resource:
Winning with the Right Mindset: A Confidence Checklist for Emerging Event Planners It’s a simple, practical tool to help you build belief, clarity, and momentum—no matter where you’re starting from.
A Final Note
If this story resonates with you—if you’re navigating those early days of doubt and comparison—just know you’re not alone. I’ve been there. And you can build a strong career in Business Events, no matter where you’re starting from.
That’s exactly why I created the Business Events Launchpad—an online course , to help you lay a strong, real-world foundation that’s grounded in both skillset and mindset
[Join the Waitlist] and be the first to know when it opens.
Let’s build your future in Business Events—together!!
