The BMI session conducted on 17th of February’21 was graced by Ms. Isvaryalakshmi, Program Manager, Nike, USA. She started the session by mentioning about how networking in the last one and half years fascinated her. She also shared the three major reasons that led her to decide on doing MBA. The reasons were to get education that provides holistic development, to get connections, since in B school it starts right from class activities and for career advancement.
She gave us insights about how to utilise the chance of one-to-one communication. one has to be in a learning attitude and optimistic that the interaction will be mutual beneficial. She stressed the importance of maintaining connections with Alumni. Before identifying mentor to guide, she encouraged to do SWOT analysis of oneself, wherein you identify your own strengths, weakness. By doing this, one will be able to set an agenda to approach the mentor.
She iterated the importance of being diligent about how we are doing networking at this time of new normal. She shared her key learnings about networking that networking is a life skill, make sure of your first impression and one’s profile should speak for oneself.
She also shared her insights about online communication and networking that the first 1:1 communication will set the path, to be patient and persistent, to adapt to the new ways of networking, to network at all times.
The emphasise on networking done by the speaker made the audience realise that
“No man is an island”
Angeline Poorani Therese. B
F20068
“How important is the need of networking in the world of digitization has been clearly covered through this session. Networking has to be done right from the tenure of MBA journey even through various case study discussions, alumni contacts and it should extend when we enter the stage of corporate life. Speaker has thrown light on the importance of keeping up rapport with the mentor throughout the journey which starts from finding out our strengths and weakness. ‘Be curious, ask right questions at the right time’- This quote by the speaker is the key take away for me from the session. I have understood the fact that adapting to the new ways of networking in the unprecedented times is much needed and being an introvert or extrovert doesn’t really matter”
Jinto James, F20 Batch
“Making use of any opportunity like case studies, webinars/seminars, alumni meet etc. to connect with people has been stressed upon greatly in this session. The Do’s and don’ts of Connecting with people on LinkedIn was discussed which would definitely benefit a lot of people. The importance of having a mentor in life was highlighted with many real-life examples, which would surely inspire the students to start networking right away. Always network with a purpose, understand that not everyone will have time to reply, be patient, keep your pitch ready and don’t forget to follow up.”
Sreesh Kumar, F20 Batch
“This BMI session gave valuable insights on importance of networking. The speaker’s repeated stress on the point of making connections right from B school has made me understand communication will help one to get to the right place at right time.”
Nikitaa Savio, F20 Batch