Fair value

What does a trade fair host do? – Tasks and work environment

Trade fair hosts are specialists in creating a welcoming and professional atmosphere at trade shows, events, and conferences. Their tasks include greeting and registering visitors, providing information, guiding exhibitors, and ensuring the smooth practical operation of the event. The role often involves close collaboration with organizers, technical staff, and other service functions. The work environment varies between intense periods with many visitors and calmer moments, and the work is usually performed in exhibition halls, conference centers, or similar venues. Besides service skills, good organizational ability and stress tolerance are also required.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for trade fair hosts has shown steady and positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 27,600 SEK per month. The following year, it increased to 28 900 SEK, representing a salary increase of approximately 4.7%. In 2024, the average salary further rose to 30 400 SEK, an increase of about 5.2% from the previous year. The total salary increase over the period is thus close to 10%, reflecting increased demand for service-oriented jobs in the event industry. Factors such as increased activity within the trade show and event sectors and a higher proportion of qualified positions have likely contributed to this development. Salaries are expected to remain stable as the industry develops and digitalizes.

Trade fair host salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,900 SEK/month (female, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (male, privately employed, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 183 SEK/hour
• Women's average salary: 30 100 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 31 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but larger cities tend to offer slightly higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as a trade fair host, usually no formal university education is required, but a high school diploma is often a basic requirement. Employers value experience from service professions, good communication skills, and a professional demeanor. Many workplaces offer internal training or introductory programs. Internships and part-time jobs in hotels, events, or customer service are advantageous and provide valuable insight into the industry.

• High school diploma: Usually from hotel and tourism programs or equivalent.
• Courses in service and customer interaction: Meritorious when applying.
• Internship/trainee: Internships or introductory positions are often offered.
• Language skills: Good Swedish and English are required; additional languages are an advantage.
• Experience from events or service: Valuable for quickly entering the profession.

Common benefits and compensations

Trade fair hosts are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, opportunities for further training, and sometimes staff discounts on events or venues. Compensation for inconvenient working hours is common, as many events take place outside regular office hours.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a trade fair host is characterized by relatively high competition, especially for larger events and in bigger cities where many seek temporary or part-time positions. A large proportion of part-time workers means the job market is marked by some turnover and flexibility. Recruitment can be challenging for employers, as the demand for engaged and service-minded staff often exceeds supply, particularly during peak seasons. Managing stress and rapidly changing tasks is a challenge for many, as is maintaining high service levels during long shifts. For those seeking full-time employment, it can be difficult to find permanent positions, as many roles are project- or seasonal-based.

Tips for those wanting to become a trade fair host

To succeed as a trade fair host, it is good to practice communication skills and be attentive to the needs of both visitors and exhibitors. Having a friendly attitude and high service standards often lead to positive interactions with different people. Flexibility is an important trait, as tasks can vary quickly depending on the event's nature and size. Being stress-resistant during intense periods and able to stay calm is appreciated by colleagues and organizers. Showing initiative and independence makes handling unexpected situations easier. It is also good to be thorough and organized, especially when managing registration and information. Lastly, language skills and curiosity about different industries are valuable assets for those wishing to develop within the profession.

Key facts about trade fair hosts

• Education level: High school diploma, often in hotel and tourism
• Work environment: Trade shows, events, conference centers
• Work form: Part-time, full-time, seasonal, and project-based employment
• Demand: Great opportunities for work according to the Employment Service
• Special skills: Language skills and service experience are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a trade fair host, the career can progress to roles such as event coordinator, project manager, or supervisor within the event and trade fair industry. Opportunities for internal promotion or specialization within larger organizations are good, especially for those combining service skills with administrative abilities. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, the industry is marked by a paradoxical recruitment situation where many work part-time, which can create mobility but also offers chances for extra jobs or temporary positions for those seeking flexibility. With 123 job openings in the profession, prospects are good for those wanting to establish themselves in the field.

Common questions about trade fair hosts

• What is the average salary of a trade fair host?
  - The average salary is 30 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a trade fair host?
  - A high school diploma, preferably in hotel and tourism, is most common, but experience from service professions is highly valued.
• How has the salary development looked for trade fair hosts?
  - Salaries have increased by approximately 10% over the past three years, from 27,600 SEK in 2022 to 30 400 SEK in 2024.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
• In what work environments do trade fair hosts work?
  - Mainly in exhibition halls, conference centers, and event venues.
• How are the future prospects for trade fair hosts?
  - According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are plentiful, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Customer service skills, flexibility, stress resilience, and good communication skills are central qualities.