Pursuing an Online MBA offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing students to balance work, life, and studies. However, one of the unique challenges of an online learning environment is the limited face-to-face interaction, which can make building a professional network seem more difficult. Yet, with the right strategies and tools, online MBA students can develop robust networking skills that will serve them well in their careers.
In this Blog, we’ll explore effective ways for online MBA students to build and leverage their network, including the role of social media, virtual events, alumni networks, and more.
1. Master the Art of Digital Networking
Digital networking is the cornerstone of building relationships as an online MBA student. You might not be able to attend in person events, but online platforms offer an array of opportunities to connect with peers, professors, and industry professionals.
LinkedIn:
This is the most essential tool in your professional networking toolkit. Create a detailed and UpToDate LinkedIn profile highlighting your MBA journey, skills, and career aspirations.
Follow relevant thought leaders, join MBA related groups, and engage in meaningful conversations.
Don’t just connect—build relationships by commenting on posts and sharing your insights.
Alumni Networks:
Many online MBA programs offer access to an alumni network that can be an invaluable resource. Alumni are often eager to support current students through mentorship or by offering career advice.
Stay active on alumni platforms, attend virtual alumni events, and reach out to graduates who share similar career interests.
2. Take part Actively in Virtual Events and Webinars
While the online format may seem isolating, many online MBA programs host virtual events, including guest speaker sessions, webinars, and virtual networking nights. These events offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with your peers and industry experts.
Webinars & Workshops:
Webinars hosted by your school or by industry leaders are a prime opportunity to learn from professionals and ask questions that can help you make new connections.
Take advantage of these sessions by actively taking part in discussions and following up with speakers or fellow attendees afterward.
Virtual Networking Events: Many MBA programs host online mixers and career fairs where students can interact with recruiters, alumni, and even other students.
These events are less formal than face-to-face interactions, making them easier to attend. Be sure to prepare your elevator pitch and a few questions about the industry or program to break the ice.
3. Use Your Professors and Mentors
Your professors are more than just sources of knowledge—they can be invaluable networking contacts. Professors often have set up professional networks and are often open to helping students make connections.
Reach Out for Guidance: Don’t hesitate to approach professors for advice on career moves, industry trends, or research opportunities.
Professors who know your work are more likely to recommend you to other professionals or provide job leads.
Mentorship: Many online MBA programs have formal mentorship programs.
However, informal mentorship relationships can also be incredibly valuable. Be proactive in seeking mentors, both from within the school community and externally from your industry.
4. Use Group Projects to Build Relationships
In an online MBA program, group projects may be your primary avenue for working closely with peers. Although the lack of physical proximity can make collaboration more challenging, it also presents a unique opportunity to form deeper connections with fellow students from diverse backgrounds.
Active Participation:
Show up with enthusiasm and take ownership of tasks. Leading a project or taking on a responsibility within a group can prove leadership potential to others. Collaborating well with others can foster long-term professional relationships.
Stay in Touch After Projects:
Don’t let your relationships end when the project is over.Stay in touch with your teammates by setting up regular checking or virtual coffee chats. You never know where these connections might lead in the future.
5. Stay Engaged with Online Communities
Apart from your school’s specific network, there are a multitude of online business communities and forums that cater specifically to MBA students, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals.
Reddit: Subreddits like r/MBA and r/Entrepreneur offer spaces where MBA students can discuss coursework, job opportunities, or industry trends. Engaging in these communities can introduce you to a wealth of knowledge and expand your network outside the confines of your program.
Business Forums: Platforms like Quora, The Business of Fashion, or TechCrunch can serve as informal networking hubs where you can engage with professionals, ask questions, and get feedback from others in your field.
6. Engage in Peer-to-Peer Networking
Beyond formal networking events, engaging with your peers in casual, informal settings can lead to meaningful connections. The convenience of digital communication platforms means that you can form connections at your own pace and in your own style.
Study Groups: Start or join a study group where you and your peers can regularly collaborate, discuss coursework, and share experiences. This builds trust and opens doors to long-term relationships.
Virtual Coffee Chats: Sometimes, all it takes is scheduling a virtual coffee chat to discuss your shared career goals. Networking doesn’t have to be formal—often, the best relationships grow out of simple, genuine conversations.
Conclusion
Building networking skills as an online MBA student may require more effort and creativity compared to traditional in person networking, but the opportunities are just as abundant. By using digital platforms, actively taking part in virtual events, and making the most of your professors, mentors, and peers, you can build a powerful professional network that will support you throughout your career.
Remember: Networking is not just about quantity—it’s about the quality of connections. Approach your networking efforts with authenticity and a genuine desire to learn, and you’ll find that your network grows stronger with every conversation.
