by Giulia Falconeri
31 March, 2022
A great night of networking and sharing experiences
Earlier in March, I had the chance to participate in an HR Niche Networking Night organised by Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), representing CIPD Manchester Branch as an Ambassador, Master’s graduate and HR Professional.
24-hour challenge
The AMBS HR conference is an exclusive event held over two days. Students work on specific challenges over the two days, including a 24-hour case study challenge, requiring groups of students to prepare and pitch ideas to a panel of judges (including our very own co Vice-Chair Samantha Lubanzu. The conference concluded with a niche networking night, enabling students to meet and connect with alumni and people professionals to share experiences, discuss career journeys and begin to grow their professional network.
I was warmly welcomed by the event organisers and began chatting with an HR intern working at the University of Manchester. Over the evening I met with many students, all very eager to learn about my career path. Students were particularly curious to learn about securing HR roles following graduation. I gave them lots of tips and advice from my personal experience.
CIPD membership opportunities
When students learned I was representing CIPD Manchester Branch, they were all very keen to learn more about membership upgrading opportunities and how to make the most of their CIPD qualifications as well as the many benefits afforded through professional membership. I explained how the CIPD works and how their membership journey can continue after graduation, and all the chances it encompasses.
A vibrant local community
Students were also interested in learning more about CIPD Manchester’s vibrant local community and programme of activities. Without exception, the students I met with were keen to gain Associate membership with a view to upgrading to Chartered membership. Many Professional members refer to the CIPD’s membership standards to identify if a membership grade is right for them.
Growing networks
The niche networking night was a fantastic event and most welcome after two years of successive cancellations due to Covid restrictions. What a unique opportunity for students to meet former students and HR professionals from different backgrounds, all sharing their own experiences and ideas.
The event was a huge success and a credit to Alliance Manchester Business School and its organisers including Louise Mustchin and Alice Callendar from the AMBS Postgraduate Careers team.
About Giulia
Giulia joined the team of CIPD Manchester Branch Ambassadors in September 2021, supporting the branch in delivering its programme of activities for people professionals and students. Giulia is a highly engaged and motivated branch volunteer, actively involved in communications planning. Giulia regularly writes for CIPD Manchester Branch and features in the March 2022 edition of the CIPD’s People Management Magazine ‘When I grow up I want to be an HR Person’ (P35)
Student networking in Manchester
On Saturday 7 May from 10:00-14:00, we invite all CIPD students to join us for a very special networking event. We’re planning something extra special. Reserve your place today! If you live outside the Greater Manchester area, explore similar events with your local branch here.
CIPD Manchester Branch 