How to communicate effectively at your next MBA networking opportunity
Take the pressure off at your next MBA networking opportunity
We put so much pressure on ourselves to “make a natural connection” in such an unnatural setting. Be it on an alumni phone conversation or at an MBA networking happy-hour event. The nerves creep in and we forget it is natural to communicate. We forget there is an actual human being on the other side of the conversation.
Feel proud that you have this opportunity to meet new MBA contacts and build up your MBA network. According to Robin Roberts, a broadcast journalist with 30+ years of experience, who teaches the new Masterclass.com course on effective and authentic communication, says that you have earned to be there. "Walk into a conversation with your head held high, your confidence will come through – even if you’re nervous.”
2. Choose quality over quantity at your next MBA networking event
A full-time second year student at Rice Business, Kelly DeMoya, says the obstacle is not having enough time. “Strike that balance of making sure you hit the right people, but you also really need to network everywhere in a finite amount of time.”
Particularly at an MBA networking opportunity, Roberts emphasizes that the easiest way to be an effective communicator is to have a genuine interest in that person. And have a sincere concern for the person you are conversing with. What can you share with that particular person? And what are they comfortable enough and able to share with you? Find common ground in an empathetic and authentic way. The more authentic your conversation is, the more memorable you will be to that particular person.
3. Be prepared for your next MBA networking opportunity
When recruiting for a post-MBA job or an MBA school: do your homework. Come into that conversation having studied up on the company or the school, and the person you are preparing to meet before the MBA networking event.
Let them feel that they are important enough to be researched on. Come in with ideas. Roberts goes on to say, “Because you’ve done your homework, you should have some creative and informed thoughts on what the company” (or school) “could be doing differently or additionally" and how you can help.
4. Know your outcome for the next MBA networking event
Come in asking questions and advice instead of coming in with the mindset of, “I need something from you." Consequently, this will take the pressure off further during your next MBA networking opportunity. Roberts goes on to say that you shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions. Leave that conversation being as informed as possible about that particular position, be that your potential MBA school or post-MBA job. “Asking questions is another way to show you’ve read up on the company and care about what it does.”
According to Katie Chung, a full-time student at Rice Business, says a great question for example is, “What keeps your team members motivated?” Or “What constitutes growth in this particular position?” These types of questions will lead to a deeper conversation. This will eventually lead you to build up your rapport with your dream MBA school or ultimate job position. Know why you are there in the first place and keep the big picture in mind. Where to now, from here (after the conversation)?
5. Be yourself fully during your MBA networking opportunity
Be present and have fun at your MBA networking event! The people you are networking with are in your industry, your city or potentially on your MBA team. These are people who can help you right now, and as a result, you can potentially help them one day. On that note, Chung states, “When you remember to be a human and put meaning behind your conversations who knows: your 20-minute coffee chat could lead to a lifelong career supporter and teammate.” You just never know.
Want to read more tips on networking? Here is a baker’s dozen tips for building a network which will pay dividends as you apply to business school, as you attend business school and as you dive into your post MBA career.
IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR HELP WITH FURTHER MBA NETWORKING ADVICE CLICK HERE. QUITE FRANKLY, WE DO THIS BETTER THAN ANYONE OUT THERE AND IT'S INCREASINGLY NOT CLOSE. SO COME HAVE AN INITIAL CONSULT AND FIND OUT WHY FOR YOURSELF.