5 Misconceptions About Networking

A good network keeps you informed, makes you more innovative, gives you a sounding board and helps you get things done when you’re in a hurry.

But many people resist networking because they have misconceptions about it. Which of these are holding you back?

Misconception 1: Networking is mostly a waste of time.

The value of your network depends on what kind you have and how you build it. Most people aren’t intentional about their networks. Reaching out to people that you have identified as strategically important to your agenda is more likely to pay off than just accumulating connections.

Misconception 2. Some people just aren’t naturally gifted at networking, and they can’t change.

Networking is a skill you can develop. If you believe you can improve as a networker, you’ll be more motivated to do so and you’ll get better results.

Misconception 3: Relationships should form naturally.

“Natural” networks can never give us the breadth and diversity of knowledge we need to understand the world around us, to make good decisions and to communicate with people different from us.

Misconception 4. Networks are inherently selfish.

Many people find networking “insincere” or “manipulative” — a way of obtaining an unfair advantage and, therefore, a violation of the principle of meritocracy. Others, however, see networking in terms of reciprocity and giving back as much as you get.

Misconception 5: Our strong ties are the most valuable.

The problem with our trusted advisers and circle of usual suspects is not that they don’t want to help. It’s that they are likely to have the same perspective that we do.

(Herminia Ibarra, a professor of organizational behavior at Insead, is the author, most recently, of “Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader.”)