The Most Efficient Way to Network
As an MBA admissions consultant, I’ve seen time and again how MBA networking can make all the difference. It separates a standout application from a forgettable one. Yet, I’m often surprised by how often applicants overlook this part of the process, especially now when many programs have gone virtual. Although some parts of the MBA application process have changed to reflect the current environment, one thing remains. You will still need to answer why an MBA is right for you. Consider your past experiences and future career goals. Each school will also expect a detailed and authentic answer for why their program is the right fit for you. Based solely on their websites, schools can start to blend together. They will all provide you with fundamental business skills and build your leadership qualities. But you need to understand critical nuances to answer the ‘why X school’ question convincingly. More importantly, you must decide which program is ultimately right for you if you are fortunate enough to gain acceptance.
In the age of COVID-19, networking has clearly changed. The vast majority, if not all, will happen virtually. Setting up calls or short Zoom sessions with current students and alums is a great way to hear about individual experiences. This is all the more beneficial if their background or goals align with your own. Schools are also expanding their offerings of video and virtual content, from campus tours to sessions with the admissions team. But perhaps the most efficient way to network is through MBA fairs and tours. This is especially true if you want to learn about a number of programs.
These events, all virtual for now, gather representatives from multiple programs for presentations. In many cases, they also offer small group or even individual networking sessions. One of my clients recently signed up for a tour. Almost instantaneously after sharing a few details of her profile, she received requests for MeetUp sessions. Nearly all of her top choice programs reached out. The great thing about these virtual networking sessions is their limited capacity. There’s less chance that you’ll get stuck in a ‘circle of death’ trying to get the admissions officer’s ear than at an in-person event. However, be sure to grab one of those spots quickly, as meetings with the popular programs will fill up.
While the below list is by no means exhaustive, here are a few MBA fairs and tours you may want to consider attending:
- QS World MBA Tour (various dates in September & October based on geography): this event attracts a broad range of programs, including many international ones. It also offers a free virtual resume review and access to scholarships
- Poets & Quants CentreCourt MBA Festival (October 6th & 7th): this event attracts a large number of top programs, including all of the M7
- The MBA Tour (dates throughout Fall & Winter): this event also attracts a wide range of programs. It has events ‘based’ in a number of cities to help with time zone challenges
- Forte MBA Forums for Women (various dates in September & October): these events, geared toward women as the name implies, provide peer support and strong networking opportunities with top schools
In preparation for an MBA tour / fair, be sure to have your ‘elevator pitch’ prepared and polished. This is basically a short statement of introduction that highlights your professional background, career goals, and why an MBA is the next step in your journey. You should also have a few specific questions prepared for each of the programs you anticipate talking to during the event. Lastly, always send a short thank-you note to the hosts of the small group events you attend. They will take notice and file it away.
If you’d like to discuss your networking approach (or anything else application-related) in detail, contact us here for a free 30-minute consultation.
Katie is a passionate mentor and coach, helping her clients craft a unique, compelling story by leveraging her experience as a corporate executive, alumni interviewer, and campus recruiter. Before completing her MBA at Kellogg, Katie spent five years in banking where she learned practical finance skills as well as how to operate in a demanding, high pressure environment. She pursued an MBA in order to transition to an industry role where she could utilize her finance knowledge to drive change within an organization. Post-MBA, she worked in finance and strategy for a leading CPG firm, progressing to an executive role leading the finance function for a $2B business segment. Her experience managing diverse teams led to a passion for developing others. In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities, she led her firm’s MBA recruiting efforts and served as an alumni admissions interviewer for Kellogg.
