Being in a small group is one of the best ways to make the most of your IABC membership. Connection Groups create space for regular conversations with fellow members to discuss work and career-related topics, brainstorm ideas, and support each other in career and professional development.
In the “IABC Minnesota 2020 survey,” 93% of you spoke to the importance of networking and said that you “would consider being part of a small group of communicators that meets virtually every month for networking, best practice sharing, etc.”
Participants often describe their small group experience as invaluable! Group members are able to turn to fellow group members for guidance in career decisions, workplace dynamics or professional challenges.
Start a new group!
Are you a natural connector? Do you want to be part of a small group but there isn’t one in your area? Consider forming a new Connection Group!
IABC MN is looking for new leaders who are willing to establish Connection Groups in different areas throughout Minnesota. We have developed a turn-key meeting structure that can be referenced and used by new groups (as desired) as you begin to meet.
To learn more about establishing a new Connection Group, contact Connection Director Heather Hofmeister.
Join an existing group!
IABC MN offers a variety of small group opportunities for members. Groups are typically held monthly either virtually, face-to-face or a combination of both, for about one to two hours. Structure and facilitation of groups vary.
To learn more about existing groups, contact the group leader below or reach out to Connection Director Heather Hofmeister.
Active Connection Groups
West Metro Mastermind
Location: Virtual
Meeting time: Third Friday of the month, noon.
Leader: Katy Sullivan
Criteria: Open to any IABC member. Topics geared toward those with 10+ years career experience.
East Metro Community Group
Location: Virtual and in-person (alternating)
Meeting time: First Tuesday of the month, 7:00 a.m.
Leader: Ellen Vander Linden
Criteria: Open to any IABC member living or working in the East Metro
NOTE: This group is currently not accepting members. To be put on a waiting list, please contact Ellen Vander Linden
Downtown Minneapolis Community Group
Location: Downtown Minneapolis (resuming in-person meetings)
Meeting time: First Wednesday of the month, Noon
Leader: TBD
Criteria: Open to any IABC member working in downtown Minneapolis
South Side Connection Group
Location: In-person (Edina)
Meeting time: First Wednesday of the month, 5:00 p.m.
Leader: Leonard Pesheck
Criteria: Open to any IABC member working in a corporate setting.
Southwest Metro Community Group
Location: in-person
Meeting time: Quarterly meetings over dinner
Leader: Maggie Fisher
Criteria: Open to any IABC member living or working in the Southwest Metro
Non-Metro Connection Group
Location: Virtual
Meeting time: Second Thursday of the month, Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Leader: Megan Malugani
Criteria: Open to any IABC member living or working outside of the Twin Cities Metro Area
Healthcare Connection Group
Location: Virtual
Meeting time: Third Wednesday of the month, 8:00 a.m.
Leader: Kim Ramsden
Criteria: Open to any IABC member working in the healthcare field