How to build a strong MBA network for professional growth

Your network can often be as important as your academic work, a case of who you know as well as what you know.

What is an MBA network?

Your MBA network extends far beyond the classroom: it encompasses your fellow students, lecturers, and mentors. It can also include people you seek inspiration or advice from who you do not know personally, such as thought leaders or industry experts.

This web of relationships can assist you in your student days and extends into your professional life. Before graduating, think about your planned career path and the people who can help you along the way.

Identifying networking opportunities

One of the most important steps in establishing an MBA network is to identify the different networking opportunities you can attend to meet possible contacts.

• Networking events: Look at events organised by your university, such as workshops, conferences, and seminars, that bring together people from within and outside your program.
• Career fairs: Career fairs are a great place to meet potential employers. That introductory handshake could lead to a successful internship.
• Alumni events: Meeting MBA alumni is a good way to connect with entrepreneurs and hear stories about alumni journeys.
• Industry panels: Your university may host panels where industry experts on specialist subjects discuss their sector and answer questions.
• Guest speakers: As with panels, your program may invite successful business leaders and professionals to speak at your university. There will always be informal networking opportunities at the end of these events.

How to build your MBA network

Before you attend a networking opportunity, it's important to prepare so that your plans are fully realised.

1. Goals and research

Get to know your targets. Their LinkedIn profile or the company website may give extensive information. Don’t just get to know the person; get to know their organisation, how it’s been performing, and its plans.

Put together a list of pertinent questions to ask them that can get you the information you need and demonstrate your qualities. Ask about their approach to hiring international students, if you are one, and see if they hold any events relevant to your program or specific interests.

If you plan on connecting with your targets ahead of time, reach out to them to arrange a meeting. Use your research to create a meeting invitation template – the format and content of your invitation matter more than you think. Carefully tailor the email before reaching out to potential contacts so each one is personalised.

2. Get in the zone

Don’t view networking opportunities as just events to collect business cards. You want to establish real connections that will benefit you. Presentation is the first factor to consider; check whether the events have a dress code. If not, your default should be business dress since you want to make a positive impression.

Find the right balance of being eager and enthusiastic, but not too pushy. An interaction should also be two-way and represent a real conversation. Don’t be afraid to present your viewpoint and be confident in your opinions, even if they are contrary.

3. Identify your dream team

As a side project to your research, construct a dream team of figures you’d love to have in your network. Your dream team will be determined by the path you have envisaged. They may be entrepreneurs you admire or leaders in your chosen industry. You can look to connect with them via their website or LinkedIn. If you do cold call any potential contact, send a message first introducing yourself and explaining why you want to connect.

4. Touching base

Whatever the origin of your contact, you want to touch base with them after the event and start building a relationship. It may be as simple as a thank-you note showing appreciation for their insights during a conversation or the points raised during their presentation.

But what if they don’t reply? The first thing to remember is that these people have busy lives, so responding to you may not be at the top of their priority list right now. Don’t bombard them with emails if you don’t hear back; wait seven to ten business days and then follow up with a polite check-in email.

5. Think digital

If your MBA program is online, you’ll already be used to working digitally, but even students on an in-person course should be looking at digital networking. LinkedIn is the standout resource when it comes to online professional networking. Step one is to ensure that your profile is updated and contains all relevant information, such as precious experience and the modules you are studying.

Including digital badges on your profile can further highlight your qualifications and achievements, making you stand out to potential connections and employers.

If there are people on your goals and dream team list who are not appearing at any events, look to connect with them online. If they receive an invite from you, they may take a quick look at your profile, so make sure that it has elements that intersect with what they do or who they are.

6. Give back

Last but not least, remember that the strongest connections often come from a foundation of altruism and giving back. By offering support, sharing insights, or connecting others to valuable resources, you create a positive ripple effect that strengthens your network authentically. This mindset not only enriches the relationships you cultivate but also positions you as a trustworthy and valuable connection. Embracing a ‘give-first’ mentality can deepen trust and create a sense of community within your network, making it mutually supportive and rewarding over time.

Key takeaways

The ultimate objective of a strong MBA network is to get you into the careers pipeline. That may come in the form of informational interviews that allow companies to vet you and vice versa. It may also open doors in the form of internships that will enable you to gain real work experience while allowing companies to see you in action. In the long run, a strong MBA network is something that can contribute to your career.