Networking is an important part of any graduate program. It offers a great opportunity to share ideas, connect with other professionals and broaden your career horizons. In the 21st century, it’s never been easier to connect seamlessly, globally and at the click of a button. But with that opportunity, determining the best channel to maximize your networking efforts can be a challenge.
When it comes to MBA networking, this can be especially true. In an era segmented by the development of the internet, instant messenger and mobile applications, the communication options between professionals have changed significantly.
For some, reaching out to professionals and joining business groups over LinkedIn may be a preferred avenue for network building. For others, connecting at industry events may be the best way to begin a conversation.
However, with a wide variety of in-person and online platforms to choose from, perhaps the best strategy for networking is more dependent on how you customize the integration of both. Regardless of your preference, there are pros and cons to both virtual and real-world networking, and these approaches may vary in the digital age.
While Baby Boomers typically prefer the personal touch of a phone call or face-to-face interaction and millennials are often fond of engaging over the internet using social media and mobile platforms, it’s important to note that not all professionals prescribe to those generalizations.
So, as you begin formulating your networking approach, remain perceptive to which platforms the majority of your communications are over. Whether you find yourself communicating across different generations or speaking directly to a specific type of professional, the way your newly discovered connections respond may help inform the best way to keep in touch with them.
To learn more about expanding your professional network with an MBA program, check out our blog post on global networking and the MBA.