INCON, a partnership of the
world’s leading conference organisers and event management companies, has
published “10 Insights for Engaging Millennials in Education Programs” as part
of its Expert Articles series.
It was largely in response to
a recent study by the Buzz Marketing Group which found that 92 per cent of
Millennials believe that membership of a professional organisation provides
strong opportunities for them.
The article was written by
Holly Amatangelo, Director of Education & Learning Services at
SmithBucklin, an INCON Partner and association management and services company
based in Chicago and Washington D.C. According to Ms. Amatangelo “with
thoughtful planning, leveraging other members’ expertise and creative thinking,
you can create a satisfying experience. Associations that make an effort to
engage members with innovative education experiences will find that these
opportunities will resonate with all generations”.
She lists the 10 tips to make
any association’s education programme engaging and satisfying - not only for
Millennials but also the broader membership.
1. Assess current
knowledge
Look closely at what they
want, then tailor it, create it and deliver it.
2. Seek out the
unconventional
Try formalised peer-to-peer
education - attendees frequently remember conversations with peers more vividly
than formal lectures.
3. Disrupt the structure
Unstructured education
sessions feature minimal predetermined topics and allow attendees to lead
instead of following facilitators.
4. Take it online and
keep it mobile
A self-paced online training
programme is a convenient alternative to a traditional classroom experience.
5. Enlist industry
experts
They can provide real-world
insights, everyday tips and tricks, and no-nonsense advice to guide new
professionals through their transition.
6. Keep it visual
Different communication
options can deliver great impact, especially to visual learners.
7. Be purpose-led
Instil a sense of purpose in
all association activities and in the education that is provided.
8. Reach multiple
audiences
Create educational content
that is appropriate for different career levels.
9. Offer digital
credentialing
Digital badging offers a
visual representation of a specific accomplishment that can be shared on social
media.
10. Provide frequent
touchpoints
Continually provide attractive
content – through blogs, newsletters and with active social media channels.
“Retaining young professional
members means offering inspiring, interesting and educational opportunities
they cannot find anywhere else,” concludes Holly Amatangelo.
