Networking Myths
Myth: Networking requires existing connections to VIPS
Most people begin building their professional network within their immediate contacts such as friends, family, classmates, clubs and societies peers, professors, and volunteering and part-time job contacts and coworkers.
Myth: Networking requires slick sales pitches and an outgoing personality
By maintaining your personality and being sincerely yourself, you will stand out to the right employer!
Myth: Networking relationships can be built in 30 seconds
Asking someone to hire you in the first 30 seconds is like asking someone to marry you after 30 seconds. It is a lot of commitment! Networking gives us an opportunity to build toward a strong relationship, which can then lead to opportunities you wouldn’t otherwise have.
Myth: Networking opportunities can always be planned
Networking opportunities can be spontaneous and may happen at any place, at any time. As you attend events, clubs, classes, and more, pay attention to opportunities to get to know people, learn about what they do, and ask thoughtful questions. You never know who will evolve into a valuable and meaningful contact.
Myth: Networking is manipulating people for self-serving ends
Employers save time and money by networking with potential employees and filling positions without advertising them or spending time going over 200 resumes. As long as you are being mindful of people’s time, are being polite, and not asking too much (plus taking cues from the other person if they try to change the subject or end a conversation), building networking relationships can be beneficial for both people involved in the interaction.