Networking and Communication: Common Myths and How to Handle Work Relationships

Networking is one of the most misunderstood parts of career growth. Even people who are very social often struggle with it. Many follow old advice that no longer works or stop themselves because they feel uncomfortable. According to LinkedIn's Workforce Report, about 85% of jobs are filled through networking, not by applying online. Still, many professionals keep using outdated methods and miss new opportunities.

Breaking the Myths That Hold You Back

Some old ideas about networking sound smart but actually block your progress. One common myth is that asking for help makes you look weak. In fact, asking thoughtful questions shows confidence and self-awareness. Most experienced people feel glad to share advice if you ask politely.

Here’s an example of a good message:
“Hi Jordan, I saw your move from campus ambassador to product marketing. I really liked how you used user research in your projects. Could I ask you a few questions about that change?”

Another myth is that your college major fully decides your career. Employers often care more about your skills than your degree. For example, a philosophy major’s critical thinking can be useful in consulting or management. What matters is how you explain what you learned and how it fits a company’s needs.

Finally, many people believe that job boards and career fairs are the main ways to get hired. In reality, research shows about 70% of jobs are never posted online. These “hidden” jobs often come from personal contacts. Try to pick 10 companies where you want to work, connect with two people at each one, ask for short chats or informational interviews, and stay in touch by sharing something useful later.

Your first job also doesn’t decide your whole career path. Many successful people take different turns before finding their direction. Think of early jobs as chances to learn and grow, not just to earn a title.

Common Mistakes That Block Success

False beliefs create fear, but some actions also hurt your progress. If you only reach out to people when you need a job, they may stop responding. Share interesting articles, celebrate others’ wins, and offer help when you can. Being active all year keeps your network strong.

Keep your online profiles up to date. If your LinkedIn still lists an old job, it looks careless. Review and update your information every few months. Online-only connections are useful, but real conversations make a bigger impact. A short video call or coffee meeting helps turn a contact into a real supporter. When you meet in person, people remember you more easily.

Avoid making your interactions one-sided. Don’t just ask for help — offer something in return. Even a small act, like sharing advice or an article, shows that you care about others too. This builds trust and balance in your network.

Communication That Builds Trust

How you communicate can open or close doors. It’s not only what you say, but how you say it. Simple, clear language works best. Avoid corporate phrases that sound empty. Instead of saying “circle back,” say “Let’s reconnect on Friday.” Instead of “move the needle,” try “increase user activation by 8% this quarter.” Skip buzzwords like “rockstar” — use real results, such as “Shipped three features used by 1,200 customers.”

Your tone matters too. Some phrases sound unfriendly even when you don’t mean it. For example:

• ❌ “As per my last email” → ✅ “Re-sharing below in case it didn’t come through.”
• ❌ “Any updates?” → ✅ “Could you share where this stands? I can help draft something if needed.”

Talking About Sensitive or Political Topics

When you build new connections, some conversations may turn to personal or political topics. These can be interesting, but they can also create tension or misunderstanding. Good networkers know how to keep such talks respectful and positive.

Here are some simple ways to handle them:

• Stay curious, not defensive. You can listen without agreeing. Try asking questions instead of arguing.
• Respect different views. People come from different places and experiences. What feels normal to you may feel personal to someone else.
• Keep it light. If a topic feels tense, gently change the subject. You can say, “That’s an interesting point — by the way, how’s your project going?”
• Avoid persuasion. Networking is about connection, not debate. Focus on shared interests like career goals or skills, not political beliefs.
• Be kind online. Comments and posts last a long time. Stay polite even when others are not.

Healthy discussions can build trust, but arguments can close doors. Staying calm, kind, and open-minded will help you build stronger and longer-lasting relationships.

Turning Connections into Opportunities

Networking is not only about talking — it’s about turning connections into real chances. To do that, you need good follow-up and clear communication. When writing your resume, focus on results, not just job duties. Adapt your content to each job you apply for. Use keywords from the job post, but keep it natural. Tools like Jobscan can help match your skills with job descriptions.

Your cover letter should connect your experience with the company’s needs. If someone referred you, mention it politely: “David Chen suggested I reach out after we spoke about your team’s new API project.” It shows that you’ve done your homework and have a real connection.

Your Two-Week Networking Sprint

Week One: Laying the Groundwork
Start by identifying 8–10 companies where you'd actually want to work. At the same time, refresh your resume and LinkedIn profile — these are your calling cards, and they need to be current.

By mid-week, reach out to 6–8 people in your target organizations. Keep these messages brief and specific. Spend days six and seven doing your homework: prepare five solid questions for each company and read their latest news or product announcements.

Week Two: Making It Count
Schedule 3–4 conversations. After each one, send a thank-you note the same day — not three days later when they’ve already moved on. Within the week, follow up with something genuinely useful: an article they'd appreciate, an introduction that makes sense, or insights related to what you discussed.

Close out the two weeks by tailoring your resume and cover letter for two specific positions. Apply with a referral if possible.

Track what matters:

• How many conversations did you book?
• Did you gain any referrals?
• Are interviews being scheduled?

These early signs tell you whether your approach is working.

When a Friend Helps You Get the Job

Sometimes networking works so well that a friend helps you join their team — and they become your manager. This can be exciting but also tricky. You already know each other well, but now your relationship also includes work and responsibility.

Here’s how to keep things positive and professional:

• Talk about it early. Before you start, have an open chat. You can say, “I’m really happy to work with you. Let’s make sure we keep things clear between friendship and work.”
• Respect their role. Once you start the job, treat your friend like any other manager. Follow their direction and avoid asking for special treatment.
• Keep work talk at work. If you hang out outside work, try not to discuss work problems or private team matters.
• Be careful with jokes or private talk. Inside jokes or side comments in meetings can make others feel left out.
• Ask for feedback. Show that you take the job seriously and want to do well. This builds respect from both your manager and the team.

When handled with care, this kind of friendship can become a great professional relationship too. It shows that good networking is not only about getting a job — it’s also about keeping trust and balance once you’re in it.

The Real Story on Networking

Networking isn’t about having a certain personality or knowing a secret formula. It’s about letting go of myths, avoiding simple mistakes, communicating clearly, and treating people with honesty and respect.

Focus on learning, giving value, and staying consistent. Over time, these small actions build strong relationships that can lead to real opportunities.

In the end, your network grows when you stay authentic, kind, and curious — and that’s what opens doors.