Making MBA Alumni Networking Work Better for Women
The following contribution is from the Financial Times website and is written by Ian Wylie, who describes himself as: «I’m a journalist who writes, edits, and produces print and multimedia content for, among others, The Guardian, The Financial Times, The Daily Telegraph, etc.»
Recent research suggests women often form connections differently—so what should business schools do?
Improving MBA Alumni Networking for Women
Recent research suggests that women often make connections differently. So what should business schools do?
Susan Jurevics, an NYU Stern graduate and executive board member, says alumnae organizations need to understand what women are looking for at different stages of their lives.
Business schools are slowly moving toward gender parity in MBA enrollments.
According to the Forté Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on increasing the number of women in leadership positions through access to business education, eight of its 61 member schools will achieve gender balance among full-time MBA students by 2024. Only one had achieved this in 2020.
Currently, women make up 42% of MBA students globally, up from 28% a decade ago.
But what are business schools doing to help women after graduation?
Networking opportunities offered by alumni associations are an important part of MBA offerings.
From educational seminars and panel discussions to field trips, sporting events, dinners, happy hours, and volunteer days, these events are evolving to meet diverse needs.
However, a recent study, «How Women Can Build High-Level Networks,» published in the Harvard Business Review and the Academy of Management Journal, argued that women’s networking needs often differ from those of men.
The researchers recommended establishing «female triplet» programs: networks that connect junior women, sponsors, and senior women.
The authors—Carla Rua-Gomez of Skema Business School (France), Gianluca Carnabuci of ESMT Berlin, and Martin Goossen of Old Dominion University (USA)—found that traditional networking methods, such as direct contact with senior leaders, often favor men due to gender biases in perceptions of competence and assertiveness.
Women, according to the researchers, benefit more from third-party recommendations.
The research concluded with a recommendation that organizations establish «female triplet» programs: networks that connect junior women, sponsors, and senior women, to boost their access to high-level networks.
«It’s difficult to draw simplistic conclusions, but I’ve observed that women tend to prioritize building and nurturing strong relationships in their networks,» says Kathy Harvey, associate dean of Oxford University’s Saïd Business School, which nearly achieves gender parity in its MBA program.
In contrast, I’ve observed that men tend to connect across a broader spectrum of networks.
This could mean they aren’t as deep connections, but the breadth of connection points can be an advantage when you’re in transitional periods in your career and want to choose which path to take, she adds.
Elissa Sangster, executive director of the Forté Foundation, notes that because business school peers are often the source of networks, where there is gender parity in MBA programs, women are more likely to build broad cross-gender networks and a close support circle among women.
«However, we’ve also observed that the term ‘networking’ can be off-putting to MBA alumnae,» says Sangster.
“They want to connect, but without the pressure of traditional networking.”
Traditional, «old-school» networking often involves going to a bar after work, playing golf, or other activities that may be less appealing to women, who tend to have more responsibilities at home, says Sangster.
«Women need a new style of networking—one that’s more organic and has different schedules so they have other support mechanisms to participate.»
At the University of California, Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, the Women in Leadership Alumnae (WILA) organization offers its members smaller events with coffee, lunches, and dinners.
«We’ve found that women tend to prefer networking in smaller forums, where there’s an opportunity for in-depth conversations,» says Abha Bhagat, senior director of corporate development integration at Cisco and co-president of WILA.
«We’ve also found that while virtual events have a high attendance rate among both genders, women, in particular, value the flexibility they offer to juggle various commitments,» Bhagat adds.
“The online format also seems to create a more equal opportunity for participation than in-person events.”
WILA also offers practical support, such as childcare during events and targeted programs for specific life stages, such as returning to work after a break.
Alumnae organizations will benefit from dialogue with women from diverse geographies, ages, and life or career stages to understand their needs and ambitions.
Susan Jurevics, an NYU Stern MBA alumna, is about to test the strength of her networks as she explores new opportunities after leaving her role as chief brand officer at Audible at the end of 2024.
“In my experience, men seem to focus on specific goals, perhaps a more transactional exchange, while women may be hesitant to self-promote or specifically ask for what they need,” she says.
In November, New York University’s business school launched the Stern Women’s Forum, a multigenerational alumnae community that allows them to support each other at different stages of their careers.
However, having lived and worked around the world, Jurevics cautions against overlooking the nuances of diverse global environments.
The individualistic nature of Western culture can amplify gender gaps in networking compared to other cultures, such as those in Asian countries, where harmony and collectivism can be more pronounced.
«Alumni organizations must continue to deepen their understanding of cultural influences to develop effective and inclusive networking,» says Jurevics, a member of NYU Stern’s executive board. «They will also benefit from continuing to engage with women from diverse geographies, ages, and life or career stages to understand their needs and ambitions, and develop initiatives that address them.»
At Iese in Barcelona, projects designed to foster networking among women include the Women Executive Club, the Women in Leadership initiative, and the Women in Business conference.
“Attracting more women to MBA programs and recruiting more female professors will, in the medium term, result in a greater number of female alumni, which will reduce the need to create specific events or activities to facilitate networking among women,” says Maria Díaz-Morera, president of the Iese Alumni Association. “But beyond that, alumnae organizations could consider more events that include their partners or families, creating opportunities for greater networking among women.”
Why a Network of Women Entrepreneurs Is Key for Aspiring Business Leaders
The following contribution is from the Kelley School of Business Indiana University Bloomington website and is authored by its team.
Discover the value of a network of women entrepreneurs when considering an MBA program.
Learn how Kelley Direct’s globally recognized online MBA empowers students to advance their careers with the support needed to overcome challenges and achieve lasting success.
Discover how programs like Women in Business, a Kelley Direct Student Leadership Association, provide professional development and a sense of community.
Developing a career isn’t easy, and women entrepreneurs often face unique challenges.
At Kelley Direct, our goal is to make life choices easier for future students through our commitment to empowering female business leaders, providing them with the support and resources to help them overcome challenges and achieve lasting success through our network of women entrepreneurs.
Women in Business, a Kelley Direct Student Leadership Association (KDSLA), exists to advance the careers of Kelley Direct students through community, mentorship, and professional development. The group ensures that women have a collective voice and influence in the business landscape.
One of the organization’s goals is to provide tools and workshops to enhance skills and professional capabilities while laying the foundation for a strong network of women business leaders. Women in Business brings people together to share experiences, perspectives, and strategies aimed at developing leadership skills. From mentoring programs and leadership workshops to exclusive access to industry leaders who share their experiences, the association understands that women in business need more than just theoretical knowledge: they need guidance and practical insights to navigate the complexities of today’s business environment.
For Prianka Raha, Vice President of Networking and Events for Women in Business from June 2022 to May 2023, the practical career advice for women she has received through the organization has been invaluable.
«We bring together the best women leaders in the business sector to address relevant topics like negotiation, for example,» Raha said.
We’re discussing how to handle difficult conversations, ensure we demonstrate our true value, and get what we deserve.
Having expert leaders at the table answering questions that will ultimately help you maximize your potential as a female leader is a huge advantage.
Women in Business also serves as a supportive environment where women feel empowered to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
This sense of community is an essential complement to the classroom experience.
“We understand what it takes to run a family, be a full-time employee, and also be an MBA student,” Raha said. “We are there to understand what members are going through and share ways to overcome it.
We have created a space where no one is judged, but instead receives practical information they can implement to resolve any situation they face. Having that kind of connection between us is critical.”
We are discussing how to handle difficult conversations, ensure we demonstrate our true worth, and get what we deserve.
Having expert leaders at the table answering questions that will ultimately help you maximize your potential as a female leader is a huge advantage. -Prianka Raha, Kelley Direct student and vice president of networking and events for the Kelley Direct Student Leadership Association, Women in Business.
While the group focuses its goals on advancing women’s careers through community mentorship and professional development, this network of women entrepreneurs goes beyond professional networking.
For Jeni Meiri, president of Women in Business, it’s also about hope and empowerment.
“To me, the association represents a collective force where ambitious women come together, not only to grow individually, but to support each other in a world that often presents unique challenges for women in business. Here, I see dreams fueled, confidence strengthened, and leadership skills honed. Every meeting, every event, every interaction is a testament to the incredible power of women supporting other women.”
Every meeting, every event, every interaction is a testament to the incredible power of women supporting other women. -Jeni Meiri, Kelley Direct Student Chair for the Kelley Direct Student Leadership Association, Women in Business.
Build a Strong Network
Student organizations like Women in Business allow Kelley Direct Online MBA students to build a strong and supportive network in a new industry or expand their professional networks in their current field.
When researching professional organizations for women offered by MBA programs, ask if they include:
– Mentoring
– Professional development
– Networking events
– Informal social gatherings
– Alumni connections
Also, consider the size of the program and its alumni network.
In 2024, Kelley Direct celebrates its 25th anniversary and, as the original online MBA program from a top-tier institution, remains unique in its ability to combine immersive online and in-person experiences that strengthen connections between students.
The Value of Networking in an MBA and 5 Ways to Be an Excellent Networker
The following contribution is from the BusinessBecause portal, a trusted and respected source of information and inspiration for applicants, students, and graduates of business schools around the world, supporting their academic and career paths.
Authored by Abigail Lister, a regular contributor to BusinessBecause.
Networking is an important skill that will benefit you throughout your professional career.
Networking is a fundamental aspect of earning an MBA, and effective networking can open doors to unexpected career opportunities.
An MBA is a stepping stone to some of the largest (and highest-paying) companies in the world.
It’s also an opportunity to apply your skills in lucrative internships and a way to experience different cultures.
But postgraduate career opportunities don’t just appear. To get them, MBAs need to network—and network well.
“Networking is one of the most powerful reasons to pursue an MBA,” says Yiannis Gavrielides, co-founder and CEO of Covve, a networking solutions company.
“Considering that 22% of the world’s CEOs have an MBA, networking, and therefore access to MBA alumni, can be considered as important as business school case studies and any MBA program course,” he adds.
According to the Management Graduate Admission Council (GMAC), 52% of prospective students pursue postgraduate studies such as an MBA to network.
After completing their studies, 76% of alumni agree that pursuing an MBA helped them successfully develop their professional network.
Why is networking important in an MBA?
With an MBA, you acquire many new skills, from practical management and leadership skills to essential interpersonal skills for teamwork and cultural differences.
But the degree also offers you the opportunity to build your professional network, which will likely give you an advantage in the job market compared to those without an MBA.
A strong professional network will help you not only during your MBA, but throughout your entire career.
For starters, it can help you land your dream job. «Keep in mind that nearly 40% of people who apply to up to 10 open positions don’t even receive an interview invitation,» says Yiannis.
«Whether you’re applying for your first-year internship or a full-time job after graduation, networking can significantly increase your chances of being interviewed or hired.»
Yannis cites a LinkedIn study that revealed 70% of professionals found a job by knowing someone who worked at the company they were applying to.
Furthermore, 52% of hiring managers say a referral could increase a candidate’s chances of landing an interview.
«So, don’t be fooled; reach out to visiting professors in the industry, alumni of your MBA program, and even your classmates’ connections,» says Yiannis.
“Find the right people and get recommendations.”
When deciding to make a career change, networking can help you gain an inside look at a company.
Shawn Herrera, professor and director of corporate relations at Pepperdine Graziadio School of Business, says, “Smart job seekers seek advice f
