Book Review: The MBA Guide to Networking Like a Rockstar

By Elizabeth Macanufo 

October 2011

Author Jaymin J. Patel (Carnegie Mellon University '07) became an expert in his subject matter through first-hand experience. He based his book, The MBA Guide to Networking Like a Rockstar: The Ultimate Guide to Navigating the Complex MBA Landscape & Developing Personal Relationships to Stand Out Among Top-Caliber Candidates on his own job search. Patel theorizes that each recruiter categorizes potential candidates as yes, no, maybe or Rockstar. He hopes to get his readers to Rockstar.

Patel begins by defining networking, and emphasizing its role in corporate recruiting. He also outlines the relationship hierarchy, distinguishing between awareness, consideration, acknowledgment and support. Throughout the book, Patel references the Recruiter's Decision Mindset (RDM). The goal for the reader is to gain support in the RDM.

Illustrating the timeline of the MBA networking lifecycle, comprised of pre-season, prime season and post-season, Patel walks the reader through the proper protocol during each. He examines events held during the seasons, and expected behavior during each. 

Patel offers tips for success in many scenarios, including on-campus presentations, post-presentation networking sessions, one-on-one conversations and closed-list events. Following possible outcomes of the recruiting season, Patel offers detailed advice to those who receive a job offer, those who do not and those who have been wait-listed.

Defining "Rockstar," Patel outlines the qualities that will positively influence the RDM. The remainder of the book offers tools and real life examples of Rockstar behavior and how the reader can become a stronger candidate.

Patel provides samples of appropriate communications, including conversations, including an elevator pitch, as well as cold-calls. Analyzing poorly written and well written emails for various occasions, Patel guides readers through proper communications with key contacts.

The book concludes with Patel offering three steps to success: finding balance between being a Rockstar and being yourself, practice, and fail faster. He argues that the key to success lies in filing faster in a low-key setting. 

Subu Narayanan, a fellow Tepper graduate and employee with McKinsey & Company offers final thoughts on networking in the Epilogue. A short glossary of terms concluded the book. 

Throughout the book, sidebars, figures and graphs are incorporated to highlight important themes. The short chapters, and overall brevity of the book makes for an easy and worthwhile read. MBAs and non-MBAs alike would benefit from Patel's advice. 

Whether seeking a new position, or attempting to expand your professional circle, Patel's thoughts, though specific to first-year MBA students, are applicable across the board.