Ahhh… graduation season is upon us once again.

The time of year where college seniors pace frantically awaiting final exam scores and rifle through pages of google searches in hopes of stumbling upon a job. It’s a stressful process, we get it. And breaking into the meetings and events industry takes far more than the love of a great event – you’ve got to have an eye for detail and an ability to handle constant deadlines and pressure. LEO Events is here to share some insight on how to break into this exciting and challenging industry.

1. Utilize LinkedIn

LinkedIn functions as an online directory of individual professionals and organizations and facilitates the process of professional networking. Make sure to have a professional photo and headline, as well as a well-written summary.

2. Attend Local Meeting Planners International (MPI) Meetings

Meeting Planners International (MPI) is the largest meeting and events industry association and provides innovative and relevant education and networking opportunities. Get involved with your local chapter to connect with event professionals. You never know who you’ll meet or where it’ll land you.

3. Don’t Go Straight to the Top

Often times, recent grads spend a lot of valuable time reaching out to the highest-level positions within agencies to “pick their brains.” In reality, it would be much wiser to reach out to more entry-level positions – people that were in your shoes a year ago. “Connecting with a younger professional gives a much better understanding on the interview process and work load, plus it’s sometimes easier to ask a younger person the real questions you have about the industry,” said Cindy Brewer, LEO Events Co-Founder and Principal.