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: Typically virtual with in-person meetings 2-3 times per year
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.
Agenda: Informal but often includes a topic or discussion question. Group members are encouraged to bring topics or questions for discussion.
Max. Membership: No set number of members.
East Metro Community Group
Location: Swap hybrid and in-person every other month
Meeting time: Monthly, first Tuesday of the month at 7:00 a.m.
Leader: Ellen Vander Linden
Criteria: Open to any IABC member living or working in the East Metro (we meet off Century Ave./94)
Agenda: Formal agenda with ample time for discussion. We cover IABC events, share updates on our current work, and discuss current topics (ex. hybrid work, AI, measurement, and communications topics).
Max. Membership: This group currently has one open space (max. is 10 members in this group). This group requires consistent attendance and commitment to engage with the group. It’s not a drop-in meeting. To request joining, please contact Ellen Vander Linden.
Downtown Minneapolis Community Group
Location: Blackwater Coffee in the 5th St. Towers, Skyway level
Meeting time: First Wednesday of the month, 9:00 a.m.
Leader: Randy Fordice
Criteria: Open to any IABC member involved in public relations, communications, and marketing professionals
Agenda: Informal meetings. Often focus on discussion of key industry issues and networking. Contact Randy Fordice for details and to suggest discussion topics.
South Side Connection Group
Location: In-person near 494 and France (Edina)
Meeting time: First Wednesday of the month, 5:30 p.m.
Leader: Leonard Pesheck
Criteria: Open to any IABC member working in a corporate setting.
Agenda: Pre-identified topics monthly, always leaving time for members to discuss issues. This group has drop-in flexibility with understanding if you have schedule or meeting conflicts.
Max. Membership: No maximum number – open to more members.
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
Agenda: We are a casual group with a loose agenda to start discussions.
Criteria: Working in healthcare is not a requirement to join.
Max. Membership: We are a small group, having started last year, and have several spots open for new members.