Get Connected: Networking and Your MBA
By Stanley Rubenti
No matter where you go to school, it is always important to pay special attention in class, do all of your homework, and learn as much as possible. Your typical MBA program is no different. However, business schools also stress another dimension of the learning process that should not be overlooked: networking.
While earning your MBA, you must master the art of networking and building contacts. That's because the people you meet during your MBA years will often the very same ones you do business with down the road. Knowing how to meet and impress tomorrow's partners (and competition) is a skill not to be overlooked.
MBAs Master the Art of Schmoozing
The vast majority of your MBA time will not be spent in the classroom. Rather, you'll attend functions, work on projects, engage in lively discussions, take various trips, participate in internships and externships, and the like. You'll master the art of schmoozing. MBA programs provide you with plenty of opportunities to develop the interpersonal skills crucial to business success, such as how to:
- Approach someone and introduce yourself
- Win people over with your undeniable charm and charisma
- Size up others and gauge their personalities and business sense
A Hidden Gold Mine: Your MBA Alumni Office and Career Center
Most MBA programs have very strong alumni or career services departments. Make sure you establish contact with these offices—they will be able to put you in touch with recent MBA graduates who have gone through the same experience you are currently going through. With a bit of determination and the right attitude, you can establish a pretty formidable network of useful contacts around the world—simply by visiting the alumni office.
To get the most out of your MBA experience, expand your perspective beyond the classroom; your most valuable education may occur at social events, in the alumni center, or even a seemingly unimportant chat with a classmate.
About the Author
A freelance writer and researcher, Stanley Rubenti currently lives and works in Bangkok, Thailand. Stanley holds a B.A. in History.
