Careers blog: Leveraging Your MBA Network for Strategic Pivots

Alumni Careers Manager Kontsantina Dee reflects on the recent MBA Alumni Conference and how networking can help you to pivot your career.

What an incredible weekend at the annual WBS MBA conference “Breaking boundaries: The power of an entrepreneurial mindset!”

The energy in the groups was palpable. Discussions in the lecture room and outside invigorating, and the opportunity to re-connect with old friends and create new connections invaluable!

Behind and beyond the immediate buzz of shared memories with old friends, the conference and also the entire WBS alumni community, represent a powerful catalyst developing your career.

In today’s professional landscape career shifts are not optional but expected and often will be required for your continued professional and personal growth and fulfilment.  Whether you are thinking of moving into a more senior role, changing your industry and/or geographically relocating, re-inventing your career can be a daunting process.  However, as a WBS alum you have access to the alumni network, a resource many others can only dream of. I am not referring to a monolithic directory of contacts, but to a living, breathing ecosystem of diverse experiences, shared insights and generosity.

Our MBA conference was a powerful testament to the strength of our alumni network. We heard real stories of alumni reinventing their careers and launching entrepreneurial ventures. Many also participated in our facilitated networking session, "Knowing Me, Knowing You," which created a marketplace for connections. Within the session alumni found partners with whom to collaborate. We know from experience that these pairings and associated reciprocal support will grow beyond single projects and become significant joint ventures. This showcases the true power of connection.

Furthermore, what became obvious during the event that the alumni network is not only to support you finding your next role, but the alumni community is there to be your sounding board and accountability partner for your entrepreneurial journeys and career re-inventions.

If you missed the event but still want to connect to the wider WBS alumni community here are tips of how to do it:

• Use LinkedIn and the alumni directory
  Discover more about alumni networks and join our LinkedIn groups.
• Arrange informational interviews
  Before reaching out, thoroughly research the alum's professional journey. Identify their key career shifts and craft insightful questions that explore their experiences. For example: "Having successfully transitioned from corporate to entrepreneurship, what key lessons did you learn, and what advice would you offer someone like me considering starting a service-based business?"
• Discuss how to bridge the gaps   

Leverage your alumni network to reframe your existing skills. Alumni can illuminate how your MBA strengths in leadership, problem-solving, and strategic thinking translate to new sectors, and advise on critical new skills to develop along with acquisition strategies.

A takeaway from a conversation at the conference, especially relevant for those crossing borders or sectors, was the importance of demonstrating immediate relevance. As one alumna put it: actively research industry reports, read recent case studies, attend industry events, and weave these fresh insights into your interview discussions.

• Follow up and secure accountability partners

After your initial exchanges, always send a note of gratitude. Crucially, articulate how the insights from your conversations have shifted your perspective, what new knowledge you've gained, or even offer some reciprocal insights. For those looking for an extra push, don't hesitate to ask an alum to be your accountability partner, providing mutual support as you work towards your objectives.

• Re-engaging with Alumni Events (Beyond the Conference)

We're committed to keeping you connected! Throughout the year, our Global Alumni Engagement team together with alumni volunteers host smaller scale, topic-focused networking events designed to foster valuable connections. You'll find details for these on our LinkedIn groups, website, and in our newsletter. Haven't updated your contact details or opted into the newsletter yet? Don't miss out! You can easily do so here.

Please encourage your peers in your WhatsApp groups to sign up too, so everyone stays in the loop.

Your personal MBA network can be a powerful asset – use the experience and collective wisdom as a gateway to new possibilities. Don't let conference connections fade; nurture them. Whether you're contemplating a subtle shift or a complete professional overhaul, take that first step. Reach out to a fellow alum, schedule that insightful coffee chat, or join an industry-focused alumni group.

As your Alumni Careers Manager, I'm also here to help you too, so please don't hesitate to reach out. The journey of reinvention often begins with a single conversation, and your network is waiting to grow.