Southshore Business Networking welcomed students from a Purdue University Calumet experiential learning course to their bi-weekly meeting at Cafe Divine in Merrillville on Oct. 5.
The students participate in a course entitled 'Problems in PR', which requires them to form a consulting firm, find a client and conduct a communication audit. Public Sphere Communications (PSC), the firm created by the students, is currently seeking a client and has taken several opportunities to network with local business professionals.
SSBN focuses on building results and successful businesses through established relationships, shared real-life experiences, advice and even some laughter.
"This networking is essential to my future," Rachael Gaul, CEO of PSC, said. "After graduation, one of these business owners may receive my resume and they will remember these connections."
The students offered their own connections as well. PSC's Director of External Research Monica Jimenez is also public relations director at Life of the World, a not-for-profit organization that aides Haiti victims and Director of Internal Research LeAnne Munoz is editor-in-chief at the Chronicle of Purdue University Calumet.
Jimenez networking continued by utilizing Highland town councilman Bernie Zemen, a contact she met through Life For The World, to arrange a presentation. As a result of this contact, Gaul and Staci Stagner, PSC presentation director, were able to speak after the Highland City Council meeting on Oct 4 to key community members.
Stagner explained that a communication audit would help channel communication between town departments and its community. "The quicker information is channeled to the correct people the quicker the residents' issues can be resolved," Stagner said.
Other networking groups that PSC has been able to be a part of recently include the NWI 'Tweetup' and the Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
"Networking is something that can only help. We have been able to learn a lot from various business professionals and owners and at the same time we are also able to network our business," Jimenez said.
For more information on PSC, find the group on Facebook, Twitter or Youtube, or call 219-308-0212.