In the world of management education, classroom learning and academic excellence are just part of the equation. The other equally vital element? Networking.
Often described as the lifeblood of business success, networking is an essential skill that every PGDM or MBA student must develop to unlock new opportunities, gain industry insights, and build lasting professional relationships.
Whether you are just starting your management journey or are in the midst of it, understanding the value of networking—and knowing how to do it right—can make all the difference to your career trajectory.
Why Networking Matters During Your PGDM/MBA
1. Access to Career Opportunities
Networking opens doors. From summer internships to final placements, many job opportunities are discovered not through job portals, but through conversations and referrals. A well-maintained network can connect you to hiring managers, alumni, and industry leaders who can help you land your dream role.
2. Learning from Real-World Experiences
No textbook can fully prepare you for the nuances of the corporate world. Conversations with peers, alumni, and guest speakers provide invaluable insights into industry trends, workplace dynamics, and leadership lessons that help you see beyond theory.
3. Confidence and Communication Skills
Regular interactions with professionals help sharpen your communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills—key attributes for any manager or entrepreneur. These experiences also boost your confidence in high-stakes environments like interviews, presentations, and boardroom discussions.
4. Building a Personal Brand
Your network helps shape your professional identity. As you engage with others and share your thoughts, achievements, and ideas, you build a reputation that stays with you throughout your career.
Take the first step towards a transformative PGDM experience at IILM Lucknow. Connect with our admissions team to discover how we blend academics with industry engagement for career success.
How to Master the Art of Networking
While networking may come naturally to some, it’s a skill anyone can learn and improve. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your MBA or PGDM journey:
1. Start with Your Immediate Circle
Your classmates, faculty, and alumni are your first network. Engage in class discussions, group projects, and campus events to build relationships that extend beyond academics.
2. Attend Events and Seminars
Make it a habit to attend guest lectures, webinars, industry conclaves, and placement preparation sessions. These platforms offer a great way to meet professionals and gain insights into different sectors.
3. Be Active on LinkedIn
Create a strong LinkedIn profile that highlights your achievements, skills, and interests. Share relevant content, comment on industry updates, and connect with people who inspire you. It’s a digital handshake that keeps giving.
4. Join Professional Clubs and Committees
Most top business schools have student-led clubs related to marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and more. Joining these groups helps you collaborate with like-minded peers and build connections with mentors and industry experts.
5. Follow Up and Stay in Touch
Networking isn’t a one-time effort—it’s about nurturing relationships. Send a thank-you message after meeting someone, stay updated with their work, and occasionally check in with a simple message or congratulatory note.
Ready to build a powerful network and a rewarding career?
Apply now for admission to IILM Lucknow’s PGDM program.
Our strong alumni base and industry connections set the foundation for lifelong success.
Final Thoughts
Networking isn’t about collecting contacts—it’s about creating meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships. During your PGDM or MBA journey, every conversation, every connection, and every handshake can be a stepping stone towards your personal and professional goals.
At IILM Lucknow, we don’t just teach management—we prepare future leaders to thrive in a connected world. Through mentorship, corporate interactions, alumni engagement, and peer collaboration, we help our students master the art of networking as an integral part of their growth.
Because when you combine knowledge with the right connections, success isn’t just a possibility—it’s inevitable.