Summary : Since online MBA programs are often criticized for lack of interaction,
here are a few tips that help these aspirants build a strong professional
network that may help immensely in future
Networking and being social is a virtue of humans. All of us
want to be a part of social groups, share ideas and opinions and benefit from
them. The importance of networking has widened immensely in the last few years and
is extremely essential especially for business professionals, aspiring managers
and entrepreneurs.
Managers and entrepreneurs willing to make a bright career
in the competitive business industry of the 21st century have to
necessarily possess a strong network that helps in terms of moral support,
guidance or financial aid. Full-time MBA programs are credited a lot on this feature
and many shy away from pursuing online MBA programs since they do not offer an opportunity to
interact with fellow batchmates and build networks. This article awards a few
simple tips to online MBA aspirants to build a strong professional network.
Interact with people
at work
Online MBA programs are most often opted for by working
professionals and executives. These executives have a considerable amount of
experience in the industry and also a number of contacts. You can strengthen your
professional network by staying in touch with these contacts. They prove to be
of great help in your future entrepreneurial endeavors as they are acquainted
with the industry and have plenty of knowledge.
Benefit from
industrial visits
Several top colleges and B-Schools, who offer MBA programs
through the mode of online
education, now conduct industrial visits in order to provide students a
corporate exposure and edge. These visits are an excellent opportunity of
networking for online MBA aspirants. You get to know people coming from diverse
backgrounds and fields, culture, experiences, etc who are pursuing the same
program as you do. You can interact with these individuals, exchange contacts
and remain in touch in order to strengthen your network.
Maintain active accounts
on LinkedIn and other social media platforms
Social media has grown so much in the recent years; what can
be better than social media platforms to create contacts and professional
networks? LinkedIn has been created as a social media platform especially for
professionals so that they interact and widen their network.
Corporate fairs
Many business schools and institutions as well as corporate
organizations conduct business fairs and events from time to time. As far as
possible, attend these events as you may get an opportunity to interact
directly with business tycoons from the industry and learn from them.
These tips can help you in your future tremendously. Also,
with a number of programs such as International MBA, Executive MBA, fast-track MBA, etc being
provided by institutions, choose wisely so that you get the best exposure of
industry.
