Anne Benisch on Event Planning, Leadership, and Building Strong Professional Relationships
Anne Benisch has carved out a successful career in the world of event planning, transforming ideas into unforgettable experiences. Born in San Jose but raised in Modesto, California, Anne Benisch has always been driven by a passion for excellence. Her journey began at Modesto High School, where she excelled in both academics and athletics, and continued at UC Davis, where she honed her leadership skills as vice president of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. After working in a variety of industries, Anne discovered her true calling at Sephora, where she orchestrated high-profile events and developed a love for event planning. Now, through her own company, Planned by Anne, she has become a well-respected name in the industry.
In this interview, Anne Benisch shares her insights on business growth, leadership, and the importance of building meaningful professional relationships.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
One key strategy that has been instrumental in my growth is simply working hard and treating people with kindness. Every step of the process matters to me, whether it’s building strong relationships with clients or collaborating closely with vendors. Being genuine and consistently delivering excellent results has led to numerous referrals, which have helped my business flourish. I also have a real passion for what I do, and I believe that shines through in my work. You can’t underestimate the importance of truly caring about your clients and their vision.
What are some of the keys to effective decision-making?
Effective decision-making is crucial in event planning, where every choice has a direct impact on the event’s success. I believe in setting clear objectives from the start—knowing exactly what the event aims to achieve guides every decision. From there, thorough planning is essential, including timelines, budgets, and resource management. Flexibility is also key; being adaptable and ready to pivot if something changes is critical in this field. Finally, communication and collaboration with clients, vendors, and my team are vital. Ensuring that everyone is on the same page allows for smoother execution and better results.
How do you build and maintain strong professional relationships with colleagues and mentors?
Building strong relationships requires authenticity, trust, and open communication. I make an effort to truly get to know my colleagues and mentors, understanding not just their professional roles but their personal goals and challenges as well. I believe in being honest and reliable. When you make promises, you have to deliver. Regularly checking in with people, offering help when needed, and celebrating successes together are all ways to keep those relationships strong. It’s also important to support others in their endeavors, whether it’s offering referrals, advocating for their ideas, or simply being there when they need a sounding board.
What continuing education or training initiatives are you currently involved with to stay ahead?
I’m fortunate to work with an organization that prioritizes continuing education, and I make it a point to take full advantage of the resources available. I attend industry conferences and event planner meetups, where I can learn about the latest trends and emerging practices. Staying informed about new tools and techniques is essential for staying competitive. In addition to formal training, I also try to attend events myself, to see firsthand what’s working well and what could be improved. It’s all about being proactive and never stopping the learning process.
What methods or techniques do you use to set achievable goals and track progress?
I rely on the SMART goals framework to ensure that my objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It helps me break down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks. I also use project management tools like Trello and Asana to assign tasks, track progress, and keep everyone on the same page. Reflective journaling has also been helpful, by documenting challenges and accomplishments, I can adjust my approach and continue moving forward. Seeking feedback from peers and clients helps me stay aligned with expectations, and I’m always willing to adapt if necessary.
How do you handle difficult clients, customers, or coworkers?
Dealing with difficult situations requires patience, empathy, and effective communication. The first step is staying calm and professional, even if the other party is upset. I make it a point to listen actively and fully understand their concerns before responding. Once I’ve identified the issue, I work collaboratively with the client or coworker to find a solution that meets their needs. Setting clear boundaries and managing expectations upfront also helps prevent misunderstandings. Ultimately, it’s about finding common ground and maintaining a positive attitude, even in challenging situations.
What do you believe are the most crucial qualities or skills a leader should possess, and how do you embody these qualities?
A great leader needs to have vision, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and integrity. I lead by setting clear goals and making sure my team understands the bigger picture. Emotional intelligence is crucial for understanding the needs and feelings of your team, clients, and partners. I always try to be flexible and open to new ideas, while remaining steadfast in my values. Most importantly, I believe in empowering my team by giving them the tools and autonomy they need to succeed. By leading with empathy and accountability, I create an environment where everyone feels supported and motivated.
Can you share an example of how you helped a colleague or coworker overcome a significant challenge?
I once worked with a colleague who was tasked with leading a major event for the first time, and she was feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the project. I stepped in to help her break the project into manageable tasks and shared some of my own experiences to guide her through the process. By providing her with practical tips and introducing her to helpful contacts in my network, I was able to boost her confidence. The event was a success, and she gained valuable experience that she could carry forward into future projects. It was rewarding to see her grow in her role and take on more leadership responsibilities.
How do you decide what to do yourself and what to delegate to others?
Delegation is about trusting your team and knowing their strengths. I handle high-impact tasks that require my expertise, but I delegate tasks that align with my team’s skills and areas of specialization. When I delegate, I provide clear instructions and expectations, but I also give my team the autonomy to make decisions. Checking in regularly ensures that things are on track, but I avoid micromanaging. Delegation allows me to focus on the strategic aspects of the business while empowering my team to grow and excel.
How do you motivate your team to achieve outstanding results?
Motivation starts with clear communication and setting achievable goals. I make sure my team knows how their work contributes to the overall success of the event or project. Regularly recognizing their efforts and celebrating small victories helps build morale. I also provide opportunities for professional development and encourage my team to take ownership of their work. By fostering a positive, collaborative environment, I inspire my team to push themselves and strive for excellence.
Looking Ahead
As Annie Benisch continues to expand her event planning business, her focus remains on delivering exceptional experiences and building lasting relationships with her clients and team. With a commitment to continuous learning and a passion for creativity, Anne is poised to lead her company to new heights in the years to come.
