The Myths of Networking (Part 1)

Myths About Business Networking (Part 1)

by Vern Schellenger, CEO Contacts Count

Are you a networker? Do you enjoy networking? Or dread it? Either way, you may have fallen for at least one common myth about business networking.

Networking skills have always been vital for career and business success, and in today’s hybrid environment, networking is as critical than ever.

The most productive, successful people develop the skills and behaviors needed to build relationships that foster connection and collaboration. But common misbeliefs hold many of us back.

In part 1 of this blog we debunk common networking myths held by individuals. In part 2, we debunk the networking myths commonly held by mangers and business owners.

Which of these myths have you seen in action?

Myth #1:  “Networking is a time waster. Socializing brings little real value.”

Research says otherwise. For example, Ben Waber, a visiting scientist at MIT, reported that, “Employees who ate at cafeteria tables designed for 12 people were more productive than those at tables for four, thanks to more chance conversations and larger social networks.” Imagine what happens when people are actually taught how to make conversations even more productive. Value soars.

Myth #2:  “No one learns to network. You either can or can’t”

Actually, Networkers are made, not born. Contacts Count’s client research shows that about 20% of people are “natural networkers.” The rest of us need to learn this skill. And we can! At Contacts Count, we’ve identified 8 competencies that have been helping thousands of people build their networking skills to achieve greater success in their careers and life. And, when the natural networkers learn about the 8 Networking Competencies, they also pick up new perspectives and tools. Most everyone – even introverts – can learn the skills, use the tools and build their networking competency for the benefit of the business and their own careers.

Myth #3:  “Collaboration and networking are the same thing.”

Not quite. Networking skills are the tools and strategies people use to build the kind of trust that leads to collaboration. Steven Covey reminds us that relationships are important and allow use to work at “the speed of Trust.” Networking can build the  trusting relationships that help the work get done.

 Which of these networking myths have been holding you back?

Which ones can you overcome? 

Contacts Count is the premier coaching and training organization dedicated to helping you use the power of human connection to transform your career, business, and life.  We have developed 8 competencies that help you master the skills, behaviors, tools, and strategies to make networking An ART not an ACCIDENT!

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About the Author

Vern Schellenger, President and CEO of Contact Count.

Vern is dedicated to empowering professionals and entrepreneurs with the strategies, skills and tools to master networking (even if they are introverted and don’t like networking events). His vast experience includes such roles as HR VP and CLO at Dunkin Donuts, VP & Director of Professional Services at Lee Hecht Harrison, and SR VP of Human Resources at American Bankers Association.