One may often wonder about the importance of networking, especially in terms of career advancement. But moreover, how does it relate to the context of those pursuing PGDM courses? Networking is a valuable tool that helps open many doors, especially in the case of students seeking a Postgraduate Diploma in Management. It promotes the connection of young individuals with industry professionals, peers, and mentors, providing them with ample opportunities for internships, jobs, and career growth.
Whether one decides to study at a PGDM college in Mumbai, like at the Welingkar Institute of Management, or elsewhere, never underestimate how meaningful connections built during a PGDM program can help shape a future.
1. Building Bonds in the Classroom: A Gateway to Professional Relationships
The first step to building successful connections is the classroom itself. It is not simply a place to learn but a means to build lifelong bonds which will prove to last way beyond college years. Actively interact with classmates daily by collaborating on group projects, participating in discussions, and sharing ideas. This will ultimately ensure a collaborative learning environment, offering a space to allow students to not only gain but also impart knowledge. Even before an individual realises it, they may be well on their way to building strong connections with future business leaders, professionals, or startup founders that last for a very long time.
2. Making the Most of Industry Events and Seminars
When pursuing a PGDM program, it is vital that students are proactive and always available to attend events or seminars held by the respective business school. These could include guest speakers, panel discussions or even webinars. The purpose behind these events is not just to instill a sense of motivation among PGDM students from industry experts themselves but also to create a valuable platform to help build connections with them. Welingkar Institute regularly conducts many such interactive events, such as WeBiz, which gives students across the country an opportunity to participate in various panel discussions, workshops, competitions and networking with professionals and entrepreneurs from various fields, who shared their experiences, expertise and skills.
3. LinkedIn with Personality: Be Memorable and Professional
Many are aware of the importance of LinkedIn in one’s professional career. While it may mainly be seen as a platform to apply for jobs, it is also the place which displays a person’s professional identity for others to view. Students pursuing a PGDM program can leverage LinkedIn by creating a complete, polished profile that highlights their skills, experiences, and career goals systematically. But simply creating a profile isn’t enough. Students must go ahead and connect with industry professionals through personalised messages, instead of mere generic ones. The key is to stay visible through meaningful ways, such as sharing posts, commenting thoughtfully, and joining relevant groups.
4. Internships: Where Learning Meets Networking
Utilise an internship experience to the fullest by using the time spent there not just to gain experience but also to build a professional network to always rely on. During the period of an internship, keep an essential focus on gaining knowledge and simultaneously building strong relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and clients. Moreover, do not show a lack of enthusiasm when it comes to participating in tasks, asking for feedback or showing interest related to work the company is involved in. This will show a proactive nature that will provide a positive outlook to the company, leading to good future recommendations as well as potential full-time job opportunities served on a platter.
5. Get Involved: Student Clubs, Committees, and Organisations
Getting involved in the right student-run clubs, committees, and organisations allows individuals to meet like-minded peers who share the same interests. It can also be a great means to come across industry experts who can guide students pursuing a PGDM program in terms of career development opportunities. The best part about these groups is that they often organise workshops, competitions, and networking sessions that go a long way in building skills and contacts. Being active in clubs also showcases an individual’s leadership qualities to future employers.
6. Leverage Faculty Connections – Professors Are Valuable Allies
Professors in a business school have more to offer than just being teachers—they are seasoned professionals who have strong industry ties. It is vital to build good contacts with these Professors, as their guidance and contact can go a long way, even beyond the classroom. Participate in class, seek guidance related to career matters and do not hesitate to ask any thoughtful questions that may come to mind. The business world can be navigated more efficiently through the resourceful use of faculty connections, who can introduce students to their contacts, recommend them for internships, or even mentor them personally.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, networking is a key stepping stone during PGDM courses to help successfully navigate the world of business. It takes courage to put oneself out there, but the results are worth it, as building a powerful professional network is the key to a fruitful future ahead. The right PGDM institute makes all the difference to this very journey, which is where an ACBSP-accredited institution like WeSchool enters the picture, offering a deeply experienced faculty and an industry-relevant curriculum to help sharpen students’ management skills, allowing them to have a bright path ahead for career opportunities.
