Do you hate this phrase?

It used to frustrate the hell out of me.

Typically this is used when talking about someone who ended up in a role because they had the right connections, but maybe not the right knowledge base or skill sets.

Over time, though, I learned a great truth about this phrase.

It’s true!

I started to realize, though, that this isn’t a bad thing. It’s just part of the game of life.

At a certain point in your career, sending a resume in to the void is not enough. You need an advocate in your corner who knows the right people and will talk you up. When it comes to filling a big position, it’s not something that can be taken lightly.

In fact, most executive level positions don’t even get posted to the typical channels.

Recruiters are brought in to vet candidates before even bringing someone in to the discussion.

If knowing the right people is so important, how do you meet them?

How do you build the right relationships that leave an open door for the future?

📌 5 Myths Killing Your Networking Strategy

Too many people treat networking as a job-hunting tool.
The truth? Your networking strategy is probably costing you opportunities.

Here’s how to fix it — broken down into 5 common myths and what to do instead:

❌ Myth #1: Networking = collecting business cards

It’s all about building connections & bringing value in to the conversation. Spend more time in active listening mode.

Find pain points where you can bring expertise or help.

Be genuinely interested, ask engaging questions

Fix: Use the 2+1 technique
🕑 2 minutes: Ask thoughtful questions
🎁 1 offer: Give a specific piece of value

Shifts the conversation from transactional → genuine.

❌ Myth #2: You need to be an extrovert

The goal isn’t to go talk to everyone, it’s to build those deep connections with the right small group. Extroverts love being everyone’s friend & can miss out on the real benefit of networking.

But how do you handle if you are an introvert?

As the Boy Scout Motto says! be prepared

Fix: Use the 3-3-3 method to prep:

✅ 3 topics you enjoy talking about
✅ 3 thoughtful questions to ask
✅ 3 ways you can help people

Fun Fact: Introverts actually build stronger relationships — they ask better questions and listen more deeply.

❌ Myth #3: Only network when you need something

There is a natural progression to career development and one thing I ALWAYS preach during my coaching sessions:

Start looking for jobs before you need them

You don’t want to be caught saying I’m ready NOW, but not have anything in place to move you on

Fix: Build a continuous value system

📰 Share helpful articles
🤝 Make useful intros
🎉 Celebrate others’ wins (new jobs, anniversaries, etc.)

Stay top of mind before you need something.

❌ Myth #4: Following up is annoying

Fix: After an initial meeting, follow up within 72 hours
Reference your convo, offer something useful, and suggest a light next step.

🧠 Reference your convo
🎯 Offer something valuable
📬 Suggest a no-pressure next step

“Here’s that case study we talked about. Thought of you.”
“Would love to stay in touch. Let me know if you'd like to connect again soon.”

You're not annoying — you're being intentional.

Most people never follow up. You’ll instantly stand out if you do.

❌ Myth #5: Online networking doesn’t work

If you can meet your future spouse online, you can connect with someone online about your career and aspirations

Fix: Use digital systems like:

1. Content Engagement Ladder – Start with comments, then DMs

2. Virtual Coffee Framework – Build trust without in-person pressure

3. Digital Value Loop – Ongoing mutual value through articles, intros, and check-ins

Online platforms (like LinkedIn) are perfect for thoughtful networking — especially for introverts.

✅ One Final Tip:

If you want to be interesting, be genuinely interested

🔗 Curated Value

Want to dig deeper? Here are a few high-signal resources:

• 🎧 [Jordan Harbinger Podcast] – How to Connect With Anyone

• 📘 Give and Take by Adam Grant – how givers win

• 📝 [Dormant Ties Matter More Than You Think] – Search on LinkedIn for current versions

💡 Final Thought

Your network doesn’t need to be big.
It needs to be meaningful.

You don’t need to collect contacts.
You need to create relationships.

Because the opportunity you’re chasing?
It’s probably hiding in a conversation you haven’t had yet.

✅ Try This Today

Reach out to one dormant connection.
Offer something useful.
No ask. Just value.

See what comes back.

📬 Stay Connected

If this helped you think differently about networking, or if you know someone it might help, I’d love to have you all join the newsletter community.

Every week I share real-world strategies for:
📈 Career growth
🧠 Clearer thinking
⚡️ Energy + systems to perform better

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Until next week!

~ A.J.