MBA in Healthcare: Networking for career growth

The Indian healthcare market, valued at USD 110 billion in 2016, is projected to reach USD 638 billion by 2025 at a compounded annual growth rate of 22.87% during the period. If you are preparing for a career in healthcare, options for educational pursuits are many. An MBA in hospital administration is one of the most versatile programs as it equips students with the basic tools and knowledge in both healthcare and business management.

Networking is a requirement in every sector, and health is no exception. It opens up opportunities for jobs, internships, and insights into the industry, offering a number of healthcare MBA networking benefits to enhance one’s reputation and career in healthcare.

This blog explores how networking can benefit an MBA in Healthcare graduate, some of the major ways to network effectively, and much more.

Importance of networking in healthcare

Due to the very complexity of the healthcare industry, the need for networking is unmistakable for the following reasons:

Stay current

Healthcare is an evolving science that is changing at a superlative speed. New healthcare technologies, treatments, and innovations are being introduced almost daily, such as advancements made in AI, which would further track and treat a patient. Interacting with fellow professionals and leaders allows learning from their experiences and gives an update on the latest trends and best practices.

Collaborate

Healthcare involves many kinds of professionals, from physicians and nurses to administrators and researchers. Teamwork is essential to operational success and to providing complete patient care. Networking fosters these links, leading to the creation of innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes.

Find mentoring and leadership

Career growth with a healthcare MBA may be complicated; hence, networking places one in a position to create contacts with mentors and specialists who share relevant career advice. The role of mentorship is essential in overcoming any challenge that would limit the ability to embrace the opportunities available to grow and advance.

Share resources

Networking for Healthcare MBA professionals allows for the sharing of resources, tools, best practices, and research findings to enhance the quality of care and performance. It will also give you some valuable insights into organizational growth, strategic planning, and management techniques that work—important skills to help you survive an evolving healthcare environment.

Support professional growth

Such active participation in professional networks is often accompanied by seminars, workshops, and conferences that contribute to continuous education and the enhancement of skills. Networking supports your career advancement by all reasonable means, allowing you to meet your professional objectives and be updated.

Building a professional network during your MBA 

Online MBA students have many networking opportunities available to them. These courses feature a host of networking platforms and virtual events, and traditional programs feature networking events hosted on campus. Some examples of networking opportunities for students include:

Alumni events

Alumni networks serve as significant resources for advice, job opportunities, and mentoring. Join online discussion boards, forums, and graduate networking events. Alumni can always be a source of insider information that can point you towards career openings which are not publicly advertised. They can also share their success mantra with you to help you with some insightful career advice.

Industry conferences and seminars

Many MBA programs organize business networking events and conferences. Such initiatives provide an excellent opportunity for students to network with people from the industry. If you are pursuing an MBA, then make the most of it by attending as many such events as possible, proactively approaching people, and using the opportunity to network professionally.

Online networking sites

These help you go beyond geographical boundaries to build and maintain business relationships virtually. For example, using LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), or sites focused on your niche or industry can be especially helpful. Join professional association websites and industry forums that provide online networking opportunities such as virtual meetings or discussion boards.

Webinars and guest speakers

Online MBA schools, such as Online Manipal, hold webinars and guest speaker series on a regular basis to expose students to leading professionals. These events are a great opportunity for students who are pursuing online MBA degree to network with renowned academics, business leaders, and innovators in these sectors. Take it upon yourself to ask relevant questions at such sessions. Follow up with worthwhile questions to speakers and establish an association on LinkedIn or personally, which might lead to opportunities for mentorship or collaboration.

Key networking strategies for MBA healthcare students

It can be said, therefore, that effective networking for Healthcare MBA professionals is a strategic way to achieve career development and integration into the industry. Here are some of the most important MBA in Healthcare networking strategies:

1. Engage in professional associations

Take advantage of networking for Healthcare MBA professional opportunities for further success by joining professional organizations such as the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, American College of Healthcare Executives, or the Healthcare Financial Management Association. Find out what opportunities may be present in the area where you reside, and attend the chapter meetings and events.

2. Try volunteering during your coursework

Volunteer in healthcare-related activities to forge a net of people and gain practical experience. Get involved in any health organization with internships or projects to increase your network and gain hands-on experience.

3. Develop a personal brand

Share your insight or opinions on healthcare management via blogs, articles, or social media posts. Make sure that you have fairly pointed out your achievements in health, projects you have handled, and experience on the professional profiles.

4. Get involved in healthcare projects

You could also engage in hackathons, research initiatives, or healthcare competitions, which will give you opportunities to show off your skills in an ad hoc way and interact with other zealots. Take part in co-projects with your fellow students and business partners to further grow your network and gain some actual experience.

Network with like-minded people during an online MBA

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) offers a range of career and networking services as part of its online MBA program to support students in their professional development and build a strong network in their field of interest.

• Career counseling and guidance: Students at MAHE have their career needs individually addressed by trained career counselors who enable them to understand their aspirations.
• Alumni network: MAHE has a large alumni network with professionals to help students connect, network, seek mentors, and find job opportunities.
• Industry connections: MAHE hosts panel discussions and webinars by industry leaders to facilitate networking and the development of insights into the existing trends within healthcare.
• Career fairs and networking events: The institute organizes events for networking to bridge the gap between students and employers/industry professionals.

Conclusion

Professional isolation raises the risk of burnout, which worsens pre-existing mental health concerns and causes new health issues. Thus, building relationships through networking is essential to maintaining your sense of well-being throughout your healthcare MBA career advancement. By actively participating in professional groups, attending events, using social media, and honing your interpersonal skills, you can build a strong network that will advance your career in the healthcare industry. Recent healthcare MBA graduates can establish a strong professional network that enhances their career advancement and success through the implementation of these tactics.