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Let’s be honest—when you think of an online MBA, “networking” probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. You might picture yourself in sweatpants, coffee in hand, half-listening to a lecture while your dog barks in the background. (No judgment—we’ve all been there.)
But here’s the truth: Some of the most valuable relationships of your career can start in a virtual classroom. The key? Being intentional.
I remember when I first started my part-time online MBA. I assumed networking would be near-impossible. No hallway chats. No grabbing drinks after class. Just me, my laptop, and a sea of Slack messages. But by the time I graduated, I had:
Landed a job referral from a classmate
Built a mentorship with a professor
Even started a side hustle with someone I met in a group project
And guess what? You can do the same. Here’s how.
Why Networking in an Online MBA is Different (But Not Worse)
Yes, you miss out on spontaneous coffee runs with classmates. But online programs have hidden perks:
Your network isn’t limited by geography. My study group had a tech exec in Berlin, a healthcare consultant in Toronto, and a startup founder in Singapore.
Introverts thrive. No pressure to “work the room”—you can craft thoughtful messages instead of small talk.
Digital networking is the future. Remote work isn’t going anywhere. Mastering virtual connections is a career superpower.
How to Actually Network (Without Feeling Sleazy)
- Stop Lurking—Start Talking (Yes, Even in the Chat)
Early on, I made the mistake of treating discussion boards like a chore. Post two replies? Check. Then I realized: The people who stood out weren’t just participating—they were adding value.
Instead of just saying “Great post!”, try:
“Your point about [X] really resonated—I saw this in action at my company when [example]. Have you tried [related tactic]?”
DM the “interesting” people. Saw someone drop a brilliant insight? Message them: “Loved your take on [topic]—would love to hear how you applied this in your role.”
- Turn Group Projects Into Real Relationships
Group work can be painful… or it can be your best networking opportunity. Here’s what worked for me:
Volunteer to lead. You’ll naturally interact more with teammates.
Schedule a casual “get to know you” Zoom. Before diving into work, spend 10 mins asking: “What’s your career goal for this MBA?”
Keep the Slack channel alive. Share industry news or memes (yes, memes). My project group still chats 2 years later.
- Use LinkedIn Like a Pro (Not Just a Resume Dump)
Most students update their profile once… and forget it. Big mistake.
Do this instead:
Post about your MBA journey. Example:
“Just debated supply chain risks with classmates in 4 time zones—never thought I’d learn so much from a 10pm Zoom!”
Comment on classmates’/professors’ posts. Not just 👍—add a thoughtful take.
Search alumni at your dream companies. Message with: “Hi [Name], I’m a current [MBA] student interested in [their field]. Would you have 15 mins to share how you got there?”
(Pro tip: Over 70% of people say yes to these requests—I’ve gotten calls with VPs at Google and Nike this way.)
- Go to Virtual Events (And Actually Talk to People)
Most online MBAs host guest speakers, alumni panels, and happy hours. But here’s the secret: Everyone just stares at the screen until it’s over.
How to stand out:
Ask a question in the chat. Even something simple like “What’s one skill you wish you’d learned earlier in your career?”
Follow up with speakers. Email them: “Your point about [X] changed my perspective—would you recommend any resources on this?”
Arrive early/stay late. The “waiting room” is where real conversations happen.
5 Schools That Make Online Networking Easy (And What They Cost)
School Why It’s Great for Networking Total Cost
Indiana (Kelley) – “Kelley Connect” weeks (in-person meetups)
– Active #OnlineMBA Twitter community ~$75K
UNC (Kenan-Flagler) – Global immersions (e.g., Dubai, Silicon Valley)
– Small cohort = tighter bonds ~$125K
USC (Marshall) – Hybrid option for L.A. meetups
– Alumni mentor program matches you 1:1 ~$109K
Florida (Warrington) – Affordable = less stress about “ROI”
– Strong corporate partnerships (Disney, Lockheed) ~$48K
Boston University – All live classes (no pre-recorded lectures)
– Dedicated career coach for networking ~$56K
*(Fun fact: I chose my program based on a 30-min Zoom with a grad who’s now my mentor. That convo was worth more than any brochure.)*
The One Mindset Shift That Changed Everything
At first, I thought networking was about getting something—a job, a favor, a lead. Then a professor told me:
“The best connections happen when you focus on giving, not taking. Share an article they’d find useful. Introduce two people who should know each other. Be helpful first.”
So I started doing that. And guess what? People remembered me. Opportunities flowed naturally.
Your Turn
Online MBA networking isn’t about collecting LinkedIn connections—it’s about finding your people. The ones who’ll:
Text you when a job opens at their company
Review your startup pitch at midnight
Become friends long after graduation
So next time you’re in a virtual class, remember: That quiet guy in the chat? The woman who always has killer insights? They could be the most valuable relationships of your career.
Now go send that DM.
P.S. Hit reply and tell me: What’s your #1 networking struggle in your MBA? Ghosted DMs? Awkward Zooms? I’ll help!