- Introduction
- Why is networking so important that people take up a postgraduate degree for that?
- How to network while doing an online MBA?
- Concluding Thoughts
Introduction
Unarguably networking is the most critical factor for success in today’s professional workplace. It might help you find your next job or a new member of your team. The majority of professionals choose an MBA degree to network and connect with other professionals in the industry. If you’re a person who has a zest in moving up the ladder in the professional industry, you must be ready to place networking high on the priority list.
Why is networking so important that people take up a postgraduate degree?
The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) research found that 86% of recent graduates reported networking as a primary activity in their job search. Certain recruiters believe they get the highest-quality job candidates from personal referrals, thereby increasing the importance of networking.
How to network while doing an online MBA?
There has been chatter that the networking opportunities are lower in an online program, and it does not give a good platform to network. But what one doesn’t know is that there is an equal number of opportunities an online MBA graduate can utilize.
An online MBA program attracts candidates from all over the world due to the ease of access. This option gives individuals an option to connect with individuals from different geographical locations thereby increasing their chances of building a diverse and bigger network.
When you enter an online MBA program, your ability to network expands dramatically. The reason is that you are exquisitely surrounded by intelligent, like-minded, and business-driven individuals. Here are a few instances that can help an individual network with professionals during their online MBA.
Speak up during team projects
Team projects are one of the most effective ways to build a bond with your fellow students. Every MBA program, be it offline or online, gives due weightage to frequent group projects throughout the curriculum. The reason being that team projects emphasize collaborating with teammates to accomplish a larger goal that is essential for business success.
In addition to spending time learning and communicating with your classmates, you can view these projects as an opportunity to flex your collaboration and leadership skills. One can also make efforts to connect with your classmates and mentors via video calls, conference calls and get to know them better.
Utilize your in-person opportunities
The fact that the MBA classes are held online doesn’t mean that all activities associated with the MBA program will be virtual. Many universities that offer the online MBA program host events that bring students together and help the students to network with their professors and classmates. If colleges do not plan these opportunities, the students can themselves plan a catch-up activity to network.
Your classmates who have met you online will not have a clue how you are in physical form, and there would be a gap in feeling comfortable to reach out or communicate. Meeting in person gives a face to your name and has long-term benefits as your classmates or connections will develop a feeling of trust. Also, a casual conversation apart from the formal discussion you have during your course period will help lighten the mood and strengthen the bonds.
Socializing is the key
Having a robust and active LinkedIn profile can do wonders for your professional networking. You will be able to connect with your colleagues in the online MBA programs and even with peers in the professional industry.
Social networks like LinkedIn can also help you connect with your alumni. A strong alumni base is the muscle of any institution offering a degree program. The alumni might assist you in your career by giving you valuable advice or help you in your job search by introducing you to valuable connections.
An up-to-date LinkedIn profile can also provide you with more visible connections who are connected with your followers and university.
Attend business networking events
Many clubs are formed on social networking platforms that help people connect virtually and in real life. These clubs organize virtual meetups and physical conferences that can help you build connections. As a student pursuing an online MBA program, you must be active in the clubs and groups and attend virtual and physical meetings whenever possible.
The clubs and groups can give you essential insights and help you connect with people who can help you be successful in your professional career.
Adapt to the way of networking virtually and physically
An online program might not give you direct access to networking as compared to the on-campus programs. Also, one cannot expect networking to be easy and passive while doing an online MBA program. The students pursuing their online MBA degrees are expected to network with their efforts. If your main objective is networking, you will try to turn the tables to do so.
Never let an opportunity like a meetup or online webinar organized by your institution slip away, as it is one of the best chances you get for networking with your classmates. Furthermore, as discussed, platforms like LinkedIn will help you connect with your classmates and the alumni network of your institution.
Concluding thoughts
Networking is the key to surviving and progressing in the professional industry. Therefore, every MBA aspirant needs to figure out these methods and techniques to network during their online MBA program successfully.
If you’re looking for an MBA degree program in an online mode that provides extensive alumni networking options, then the MBA degree program offered by Shiv Nadar University, Delhi NCR, will be the right fit for you. An individual can choose from 4 specializations in Data Science & Analytics, Digital Finance, Marketing, or Human Resources.
The program seeks to make individuals gain global insights to tackle real-world problems and develop a global network to achieve long-term career goals. Participants will be given opportunities to connect with professors, industry experts, peer groups and experience an immersive educational experience. So what are you waiting for? Apply now and race ahead in your professional career.
