1. NETWORKING MYTHBUSTING

2. “Networking only happens at professional events”
If you think you can only successfully meet people who will influence your career at events with “networking” in their title, think again. Luckily for those who believe they “hate” networking, you can meet new people and begin to foster relationships any place there are living, breathing humans, either in person or online.

3. “You can only network with people once you have a strong relationship with them”
Networking is about relationships, and you may be most comfortable exchanging information and ideas with people once you’ve established a strong connection. However, weak ties are most likely to be your best networking contacts. This is because people in your circle, or sphere of influence, probably have contacts and access to information similar to yours. Don’t hesitate to reach out to someone you met at your friend’s Thanksgiving dinner or that talkative person you see at the tennis courts. These people may be the best networking contacts for you.

4. “Introverts can’t network”
If you are an introvert, you may not enjoy social situations where a lot of formal networking typically happens. You don’t need to love working a room or begin every day hoping you’ll find someone who wants to hear your life story to successfully network. If you’re shy or introverted, you can take advantage of the innate skills you may have to excel at networking. People love listeners, and often want to connect with and get to know people who don’t try to do all the talking.

5. “You must create a two-minute elevator pitch”
When is the last time you said hello to someone for the first time and paid attention to their reply as they launched into a prepared pitch? No one has the attention span for a boring, two-minute diatribe about you. Instead, learn to introduce yourself in 30 words or less and, more importantly, to target your introduction based on the people you meet.

6. “If the person is interested, he or she will get back with you”
Most people, like you, are busy. The best networkers don’t ever leave it up to the other person to get in touch. Perhaps you exchanged business cards, or even connected on LinkedIn. However, that doesn’t mean your job is done. If you want to continue the professional relationship, it’s your job to reconnect and follow up.

7. “The best way to start off a networking conversation is by letting the person know you are looking for a job”
If you’ve been attending networking events, extending your hand and saying, “Hi, I’m Jack, and I’m looking for a new opportunity,” stop now. Do not parade around events with a virtual “J” for job seeker on your forehead. Instead, focus on what you have to offer everyone you meet. Inspire them to want to know more about you instead of telling them what you hope to get from them.

8. “The best time to network is after you see a job posting”
It is best to network your way into an organisation before a position is posted. Do your best to connect with people in organizations where you’d like to work before they post positions, and you’ll be more likely to access information you want more easily.

9. “You should only network when you’re looking for a job”
Unfortunately, most people believe networking is an item for their job search “to do” list. However, growing the network of people who know about you and your expertise is something you should include in your plans on a regular basis.