BRIDGING THE GAP
Milly Pickles , senior account executive , Top Banana , shares how the industry can help the next generation of eventprofs enter the industry
tudents are the future of the events industry , but how do we support them and help bridge the gap that so many experience after graduation ?
The primary solution is for universities and the industry to work together to better prepare and upskill students for life as an event professional . However , the responsibility also lies with students and working together will help bridge the gap .
At university , undertaking a placement year and having practical modules is essential to fill the gap . Not only does it give students an insight into the industry , but also gives them the chance to upskill through experience , preparing them to undertake a graduate role . Another valuable takeaway from university is the learnings from guest industry speakers ; they give an understanding of life as an event professional . However , having relatable speakers , such as recent graduates , is even more beneficial as they can advise students on the transition between education to industry .
Giving students as much competitive
“ Meeting contacts and creating a network of event professionals can give students an advantage for when they are searching for their graduate role .”
Milly Pickles
advantage as possible , by teaching them what the industry needs at university , is a must . Going into the industry as a graduate with the knowledge of industry magazines , associations , basic terminology , and acronyms , as well as the different job roles available , can give them the head start that they need . This does not only benefit the student but the employer and industry , too .
As an events industry , we should be giving students a voice through speaking opportunities at our events . This not only further encourages universities to bring their students to these events , it allows event professionals to learn from new perspectives , which is essential to bridging the gap and finding out undergraduate ’ s needs .
But , what else can we do to help ? Having student and graduate specific events where they can hear about the current landscape of the industry , day-to-day roles and the different job roles available , is the greatest way for students to learn . Providing students with this knowledge allows them to be better prepared for graduate life and helps to bridge the gap . As an industry , we also need to be offering obtainable graduate roles with realistic requirements and suitable salaries .
However , students can also support with connecting education and the industry . Fully immersing themselves into the industry and getting out of their comfort zone will allow them to adjust to post-graduation life better . Attending networking events and industry events is the best way for students to do this . Meeting contacts and creating a network of event professionals can give students an advantage for when they are searching for their graduate role . They can also take it upon themselves to self-learn and enhance their knowledge of the current state of the industry , as well as upskilling by increasing their events experience through undertaking volunteering or part-time roles . Students are the future of the events industry and empowering them with increased knowledge and experience will better prepare them for their graduate role , therefore helping to pave the way for future event professionals . CN www . conference-news . co . uk