In studying the career paths of many MBA graduates from the top tier schools for my new book, I've found
that networking has been instrumental to their continued success. IVY League graduates have an unusual
but strong dedication to one another. Lower tier schools don't have this. The IVYs hold networking events where
they meet face-to-face to share a bit of themselves with other IVYs. They meet for lunch, dinner and many
informal gatherings. They arrange these events themselves without a direct connection to their schools.
It's a bunch of professionals with a single bond, working together to promote each other's success. They
form book clubs, present to one another and draw in top executives from major companies to share their
insights.

They've found that, as an MBA graduate, they have most of the skills they need to be successful.  As one
participant told me, "MBAs don't get fired for being stupid, they get fired for their personality."  This is
a great point.  Relationship management in the workplace is key to continued success.  Most of us know that
making enemies in the workplace isn't helpful.  In fact, it can be detrimental.  So, instead of avoiding
making enemies, the IVYs focus on making a powerful network.

Many of my clients struggle with networking.  Finding groups to attach themselves to is difficult.  The first
place to look is on the web.  Most groups have posted access to their calendar of events and officers on
their website.  A simple search should bring up a list of groups to join.

For now, you must network! I don't mean spend a lot of time on the Internet making connections through
LinkedIn, Facebook, etc. These are important too but the real social interactions that allow you to really
know someone will be the relationships that will get you into their company, get your referred to their
friend who may be hiring, or simply get you recommendations from key organizational members. These
relationships will help you all throughout your career, not just the beginning.

Pick a group and become an active member. Networking is making personal connections and you can't do that
over the internet. Here a few groups to join:

1. http://www.mbaalliance.com/
2. Your alum group
3. Other alum groups, like http://www.hbsclubchicago.org/groups.html (yes...this is Harvard but don't let
that stop you. Contact the head of the group and ask to join).  There are many in your city.  Find them.  Join
them.

If you aren't getting results for face-to-face groups, network online to find more places to network in
person. Consider some of these sites:

http://www.foreignmba.com
http://www.mbafocus.net
http://www.mbahighway.com
http://www.associationofmbas.com
http://www.mbaconnect.net

Once you have gained graduate level education, you have the credentials and skills to be successful.  Now,
you just need the network.  If you don't have one, make one.