By Katy Sullivan and Diana Dukich
As IABC MN board members, we might be biased about the value of IABC MN – especially since our role is to deliver a great chapter experience. Give us a few moments to convince you that there are many reasons to connect with IABC MN whether membership is right for you or not.
We know that communicator’s plates are full so investing time professional development and building your network has to be efficient and effective. So, what makes for a meaningful experience with a professional membership organization? Relevant programming and a welcoming community are good places to start — and we think IABC MN delivers on that and much more.
Since we were encouraged to keep things brief for this message, we will focus on the programming we offer which provides lots of ways to get involved whether you have an hour to attend a monthly event, or more time and want to be an active volunteer with IABC MN.
Overview of chapter programming:
- Professional development events – Join us for these virtual – and free-to-members – events (with the exception of our annual Convergence Conference – stay tuned for more details about this fun and valuable 2022 event). Register now for our next event on Sept. 15 – The Communicator’s Role in Effective Change Management.
- Social events – Build your network of communicators in a casual environment. Social events are hosted multiple times per year throughout the Twin Cities metro and are free to members for the coming year. These events are a great way to get to know us before you join, or even if you never join. Watch this newsletter for details about our annual Oktoberfest event!
- Peer mentoring – Sign up for this member-only program, which is an opportunity to connect one-on-one with another IABC MN member to share goals and challenges, explore ideas and interest areas, and learn how another pro approaches their work. Registration is open now through Sept. 1.
- Connection groups – Connect with a small group of communicators for monthly conversations and networking (eligibility for non-members varies by group). Groups meet in person and virtually, depending on conditions. And, if you are just getting started in your communications career, be sure to check out our Young Professionals Connection group.
We hope to see you virtually or in-person at an upcoming event. And members, don’t forget that when you are part of IABC MN, you are also part of IABC which offers you access to even more resources, education, and opportunities for professional certification.
If you have programming ideas for the coming year – topics you want to see covered or a speaker you would like to hear from, please let us know!