Event review: Attending my first IABC Munch ‘n’ Mingle

Written by Katherine Payne, IABC/Toronto member, volunteer and student at Seneca College

This year I joined the communications industry as a corporate communication student at Seneca College. I had always been interested in writing and had thought I wanted to be a writer or journalist. I was introduced to the corporate communications program through a friend who had taken the program. I had never realized there were so many levels to being in the communication industry; networking, writing, public speaking, volunteering and it all seemed like a lot to take on. The program stressed the importance of joining professional associations and to go to networking events to get an idea of what is going on in the industry and to make contacts within the industry. I decided to join IABC because I was interested in learning about different fields within the industry. With my background in political science, I was keen to talk to people working in government and government agencies and was pleased to see that I was not disappointed when I attended the event. I saw great value in belonging to an organization that supports students with networking events, volunteer positions, job searches and resume and interview tips and tricks. 

I went to my first Munch ‘n’ Mingle IABC event on October 19th, in Toronto, Ontario. I had been very nervous about going as I had wondered why people would want to take time out of their networking night to speak to students who wanted to inundate them with questions. I went with three other girls in my class. Volunteers of the Toronto chapter, who thought it was wonderful that students had come out to the event, greeted us at the door. It completely surprised me that they wanted to talk to me and learn about the experiences that I was currently going through. My first connection occurred when three professionals from News Canada, approached our small group of students. Once they found out we were students they were open to all the questions that we had regarding the industry.

After I had met the first couple of people, meeting and networking became easier and easier as everyone I spoke with was extremely positive and helpful. One lady, Jennifer, was so helpful that I ended up asking her if my group and I could interview her for our project on internal communication and she agreed! A couple of other people were more than happy to help with future job searches and gave hints and tips that we as students could use. The atmosphere was very energetic and welcoming and there were fun activities such as contests to take part in.

What I really appreciated about the event was how Stephanie Engel, one of the organizers of the event came up to me at the end and asked what my thoughts and comments were on the event. She was very interested in my thoughts about the accessibility of the events. She wanted to discuss what I thought of the price of the event for students, how easy the event was to get to, and whether people were generally receptive to talking to students. She made it clear that if I had any problems, comments or questions that I should not hesitate to contact her. It was very refreshing to see that the event was not just aimed at professionals but that we as students mattered as well!

There are a couple of things that I would do differently the next time around. One important tip that I had not thought of until one of my peers mentioned it and was suggested by a few people at the event were networking cards. Although, we as students, do not have business cards it is still important at networking events to exchange information. Rather than bringing a piece of paper to furiously write down your information every time someone asks for it you can just produce a card. I would also wear more comfortable footwear next time. I did not realize the amount of standing around and walking was involved in an event like this and needless to say 3-inch heels were not the wisest choice!

My advice to other students about going to their first event is to not let yourself be intimidated. When you walk into the event it seems overwhelming with all the professional people talking amongst themselves. You feel like you would be rude or that you are imposing if you joined into a conversation, but you’re not. This is what the event is all about, talking to people and making contacts. I will pass on the tip that was suggested to me at the event, do not seclude yourself, always seem interested and open to talking. There were some people sitting along the sides and as Jennifer pointed out when we were talking, why would people come to a networking event to sit down. She said by doing this you are closing yourself of and keeping yourself away from being able to mingle within a group. This isn’t to say that you are not allowed to sit down at all, but if you have to keep it very short and sweet. You should also keep at least one hand free to shake hands and never be afraid to ask for the person’s business card.

These events are well worth going to and despite my initial hesitations and shyness are very easy to enjoy. I believe that by going to the event it gave me confidence and allowed me to see that everyone there was there for the same reason, to network and grow their contact lists, which can include students. I have made some great contacts who were able to guide me in gaining information about the field I was interested in and steer me towards other contacts that they had in the field. All communications student should be going to these events as they are very open and accepting of students and give them an easy and fun platform in which to make contacts and understand the industry.