Embarking on a Doctor of Business Administration is more than a deep dive into research and advanced management theory — it’s an immersive leadership development experience that thrives on connection, exchange and collaboration. At European School of Management and Leadership, we believe that the relationships you build during this journey become as valuable as the degree itself.
Key Benefits of Strategic Networking
- Exposure to diverse perspectives: Engaging with fellow doctoral candidates, faculty, industry professionals and alumni introduces fresh ideas, challenges your assumptions and broadens your research and leadership horizons.
- Access to hidden opportunities: Many roles, partnerships, research collaborations and career transitions are never advertised — they flow through networks, referrals and trusted connections.
- Enhanced collaboration & impact: Networking is not just social-chatter — meaningful relationships can lead to joint research, cross-discipline innovation, co-publications and elevated professional visibility.
- Support and resilience: The Doctor of Business Administration path can be intense and solitary at times. A strong peer and professional network provides encouragement, accountability and that essential sense of community.
- Leadership preparedness: Beyond research, networking develops your interpersonal, communication and influence skills — exactly what modern organisations look for in senior leaders and change agents.
How to Build a Powerful Network as a Doctor of Business Administration Candidate
- Be intentional: Attend seminars, webinars, industry panels and conferences where you can meet mentors, peers and practitioners relevant to your research and business goals.
- Engage proactively: Reach out — introduce yourself, ask thoughtful questions, listen more than you speak, and follow up. Authenticity builds trust.
- Leverage digital platforms: Maintain a strong professional presence (LinkedIn, research forums, alumni groups). Share your research interests, commentary and findings to enhance visibility.
- Offer value: Networking is a two-way street. Share your insights, support others, collaborate where possible — people remember generosity and relevance.
- Nurture relationships: One coffee meeting or LinkedIn request is just the beginning. Keep in touch, update contacts on your progress, ask for advice, offer your help — networks grow with care and time.
- Be strategic: Map out who you want to connect with (industry experts, alumni, thought-leaders), then plan how, when and what you’ll say. Use conferences or workshops as gateways.
A Final Word
As you walk through your Doctor of Business Administration journey at European School of Management and Leadership, remember: your network is not just who you know — it’s who knows you and your work. It’s the community that will challenge you, open doors and amplify the impact of your research and leadership. Invest in your connections now. They’ll become your most powerful asset tomorrow.
