Milly Pickles, senior account executive, Top Banana, shares how the industry can help the next generation of eventprofs enter the industry.
Students 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 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.
