People shy away from networking for a variety of reasons, whether it’s fear of rejection, a lack of confidence or because it seems awkward and uncomfortable. However, steering clear of networking can limit career opportunities, as it plays a crucial role in professional growth and opens doors to valuable connections and resources.

Today in The Conversation Canada, Jamie Gruman from the University of Guelph challenges some of the common misconceptions about networking and offers tips for how to do it more effectively. One common myth is that networking is exploitative, where people only seek out connections to get ahead. Gruman argues beliefs like this miss the mark and can prevent people from reaping the benefits of authentic relationship-building.

Instead, Gruman explains that effective networkers approach professional relationships co-operatively and see them as an opportunity to give to others. He shares three practical strategies to help improve networking skills, reminding readers that while no one is perfect at it, everyone can improve with practice.

“With a little effort, you can network like a pro. If you do it right, it won’t feel exploitative because you won’t be manipulating anyone,” he writes. “You may even find that networking is fun and enriches not only your career, but your life.”

Also today:

• What’s ahead for municipal policing in Canada after B.C. court decision ousts the RCMP in Surrey
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• The Supreme Court of Canada is wrong to refuse to translate its pre-1970 decisions
• How climate change is undermining Indigenous knowledge and livelihoods in Central America