Alumni networks at new IIMs provide modest but not decisive help for job switches - most candidates find roles via Naukri, LinkedIn, and direct applications rather than alumni referrals. The OP confirmed - "They are of help to people. They keep floating opportunities, and they are always happy to see one of their juniors. But, I did not reach out to any of them" and added "finding something that aligns with your skill and career goals has to be your task." Reality of alumni networks at new IIMs (Kashipur, Ranchi, Trichy, Udaipur with Rs 14-23L fees and Rs 17-18 LPA averages):
- Alumni post job openings on private LinkedIn/WhatsApp groups regularly,
- Most postings are for roles below your experience level (fresh MBA hires at junior positions),
- Lateral hiring alumni referrals are rare since top 3-5 year exit candidates are themselves switching,
- Senior alumni (8+ years post MBA) have influence but you have zero connection with them usually. For 3-year post-MBA switchers, Naukri.com ends up being the most effective channel in India. LinkedIn EasyApply gets you 10-20% response rates. Direct applications via company career portals work for specific target firms. Cold outreach to alumni working at target firms has 5-10% response rate - use it for top targets only, not spray-and-pray. The OP's switch trajectory (new IIM, management consulting strategic arm of IT firm → product company digital strategy) shows that skills + performance drive switches more than alumni network at new IIMs. At BLACKI colleges (IIM Ahmedabad Rs 27.5L fees Rs 35.22 LPA, IIM Bangalore Rs 26.2L fees Rs 34.88 LPA, IIM Calcutta Rs 27L fees Rs 34.23 LPA), alumni networks are stronger and more useful for laterals. New IIM alumni help is real but limited - don't rely on it as primary job search strategy. Check your eligibility at collvera.com/eligibility