Business competitiveness has radically changed in this new millennium. The onset of the internet and social networks have altered the demands for a thriving career. A decade ago, education, skills, and experience were the key factors that defined the success of your career. Today, there is one more skill you need - networking. PGDM colleges in India and around the globe keeping reminding their students how important building a network of quality contacts is.

Networking is regarded as one of the most effective marketing tools and can simplify the road to your professional growth. Networking entails forming long-term mutually profitable relationships between two professionals. Your network can't only transfer information, but it can also present work opportunities.

To develop such a vast and robust network, the safest plan of action is to get a PGDM. You will be studying shoulder to shoulder with future leaders, outstanding faculty, and have access to a massive network of alumni.

Networking should begin early in your PGDM or MBA programs and sometimes even before that.

Wondering which PGDM program is best for you? Reaching out to the alumni of a business school will help you understand the culture of the school and give insights into how the experience truly is like. This will not only clear any of your doubts, but it will also help you create connections and strengthen your network.

Throughout your PGDM program, pay close attention to your classmates. The associations you build in your class may prove valuable in the future. Remember, they are all prospective leaders and some years from now will either have their flourishing businesses or have high profile positions in big organisations.

You should also concentrate on interning in multiple companies. Interning will not only add to your resume, but you can also make contacts - with your reporting manager, and your peers. You can also communicate with alumni who work in companies of your preference to ask for guidance. Most of them would readily help you land an internship or even a job with their company.

Ultimately, your PGDM program shouldn’t just be a 2-year long degree; it should be a platform where you build your network that will benefit your career and life. The best PGDM course in Kolkata and other cities put heavy emphasis on improving their student's network. This is the reason why they hold various events and industry meets throughout the 2 years. However, at the end of the day, the onus falls on you and your efforts. Remember, the more you put into networking throughout your PGDM program, the more you will receive from it.