Networking Myths and Misconceptions

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by Roger Sommer, SPHR, vice president of client relations for OI Partners—Los Angeles, CA

SUMMARY
Even though the results are proven when it comes to networking, many people still have misconceptions about the job-hunting experience. Here, we examine some common myths about networking and set the record straight. ARTICLE It is no secret that OI Partners clients are instructed in networking techniques. They are encouraged to spend a significant amount of time engaging in active networking. Why then is networking so hard for job seekers? Let's look at some of the objections and provide answers.

Myth: My headhunter friend will find a job for me.

Reality: Search executives fill open jobs. They do not find jobs for friends. The chances of your headhunter friend having a job opening for the position you are seeking at any point in time are remote at best.

Myth: I'll find a job online; Monster is great!

Reality: Only about five percent of our candidates locate a position through the Internet. This is far lower than the 71.1 percent of candidates who found their current jobs through networking, as reported in the most recent re-employment research report.

Myth: I don't need to network; I have a job.

Reality: Networks are used for many purposes, not just to locate a position. For example, many human resources executives have found their networks to be extremely helpful when they need to get an accurate reference or to informally list an open position with contacts. People can also use their networks to give and receive professional advice, learn about industry news or even find out about new career opportunities.

Myth: I don't have a network.

Reality: Everyone has a network! It may be limited to family, friends and a few business acquaintances, but that forms the basis for expansion and utilization of this critical resource.

Myth: I won't network; it is demeaning to ask for a job.

Reality: Networking is not asking for a position. It is keeping your friends and associates informed about your current career situation. Often those in your network are willing to help by offering names of others to contact, requesting a resume copy to send to their contacts and providing much needed encouragement. Also, try printing up business cards instead of handing networking contacts your resume.

Myth. I don't need to network outside my company.

Reality: While an internal network may be a distinct advantage in carrying out responsibilities, it is of limited help if the organization relocates, closes or terminates your employment. At that point, the need is to contact others outside your former place of employment. This is why you need an external network.

Myth: I haven't spoken with Joe (or Jane) in years. I won't bother to call him.

Reality: Trying to pre-judge the reception you might receive from your networking contact is difficult at best. I had the same feeling about one of my contacts and skipped over calling him. At a later date, I did make the call and was delighted to find a sympathetic and helpful friend. The moral of this story is, let everyone on your list know your situation and accept the help that is offered.

Myth: I don't have time to attend meetings to network.

Reality: Meeting attendance will expand your network, but help may be closer than you realize. Two true stories: I simply gave my resume to my wife who passed it to a co-worker, who gave it to her plant manager husband, who gave it to his HR manager, who called me with a consulting assignment. On another occasion, I noticed a business contact in a hardware store whom I had not seen in years. I initiated a conversation, and another piece of business developed. We never know how an important contact may develop.

Myth: I can't network; I don’t have a salesperson attitude, nor am I an extrovert.

Reality: You don't need to be a glad-hander or a back-slapper to simply let those you know, or will come to know, about your career situation or an issue facing you. Don't forget that networking goes both ways. You need to be willing to help others just as you have been helped yourself.

What have we learned from examining these networking myths? Letting family, friends and business contacts know about your professional situation may be labeled networking, but it is simply communicating with someone you know, or to whom you may be introduced. Take advantage of every opportunity, and let your contacts help you. They will feel good about it and so will you. Networking may appear to be an unscientific way to locate a position or to accomplish a task, but it is the most effective tool we have. Use it and you will be surprised at the nice people you meet along the way!

Roger Sommer, SPHR, is vice president of client relations for OI Partners (Los Angeles). Roger has more than 25 years’ experience in all facets of human resources. He earned a Masters of Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University and teaches graduate level HR courses for Chapman University. Roger was the 1989 president of PIHRA, received both the 1995 Excellence in Human Resources Award and the President’s Award. He is past State Director of the SHRM California State Council, and past Chair of the SHRM National Employment Committee.