Insights from Paul Harvey: Career tips and Tomorrow’s Talent advice

In this Q&A, we have the pleasure of speaking with Paul Harvey, the Editor of M&IT, the UK’s leading publication in the events industry. With years of experience shaping industry trends and being a long-standing judge for Tomorrow’s Talent, Paul offers invaluable insights into what he looks for in entries and how to thrive in the early years of a career in the events industry.   

What’s the one thing you wish someone had told you when you were at the career stage of Tomorrow’s Talent entrants?

It’s ok to ask for help! When I was starting out I remember feeling like I ought to know everything about my job already. So if someone asked me to do something, even if I didn’t have a clue what I was doing, I’d be too scared to pipe up and ask. And I’d end up doing things slowly and badly. The truth is, in the early stages of your career you’re still learning – and no one expects you to know everything. So don’t be worried about asking for help.

Could you share one great question to open conversation at a networking event?

Ask people about themselves. It can be anything – How did you get here, have you been here before, what’s your job, I like your hat where’s it from… anything really. Most people like talking about themselves, you just have to show some interest in them and the conversation will start flowing. As a journalist, that’s my interview technique too – it’s simple, but it works!

What really stands out to you when reviewing Tomorrow’s Talent entries and could you share a top tip for applicants? 

I love getting the entries every year, they seem to get better and more impressive every time. The trick is not to oversell yourself – we judges know if you’re trying to pull a fast one. Honesty is the best policy, let the facts speak for themselves. We do love a bit of enthusiasm though, so don’t forget to make your entries positive and full of energy!