When it comes to networking, many people will acknowledge that it is important. Yet, very few people actually understand how crucial it is to building a career. Just to give you perspective, Linkedin conducted a global survey in 2016 that showed that 70% of people questioned were hired at a company due to a connection.
Looking at how significant networking is, it’s only fair to ask, how do you develop a solid network?
There are several ways you can build a network: volunteering, attending events, growing your online presence and so on. But one of the best ways to develop a solid network is through MBA programs. Apart from giving you specialized education in a subject that interests you, an MBA helps you form links that are beneficial to your career. Here’s how.
Your classmates can be great contacts
The people you attend class with will be the next corporate executives, business owners, vice presidents and more. You’ll not only have access to some of the most influential people in years to come, but you’ll have time to know them, interact with them and build a relationship. This is a unique experience that MBAs offer you that is hard to find elsewhere.
Used wisely, the friendships and the network you make during an MBA can be great connections in the future as you move forward in your career.
Professors are valuable resources
Professors are good resources when it comes to academic growth. But they have so much to offer beyond academics. As experts, they can offer counsel about what decisions are best for your career. If they also have experience working outside of academia, they can serve as great links and references when it’s time to return to the working world.
Prominent companies are within your reach
It’s quite common for working professionals from companies to host seminars, workshops, or give lectures to MBA students. Rather than relying on sending your CV to hiring managers who you do not know, you can have direct contact with the professionals who visit the university. This gives you an opportunity to form a relationship, grow your network and improve your chances of finding work.
If you’ve never thought about earning an MBA, then you should consider it because it’s a good way to grow your network. But there’s so much more that an MBA can give you to help move your career forward.
We have a brief guide called 3 Reasons why an MBA will upgrade your career. If you’re interested in learning how an MBA can help you advance in your career, then click below to learn more.
