You've probably never seen a bumper sticker that exclaims, "I'd rather be networking!" That's because few people associate networking with fun. Instead, we see it as one of those things we have to do for our careers.

Even the word "networking" sounds like "work", doesn't it? But the reality is networking is way bigger than a "work" thing. It's a "life" thing.

Networking is all about connecting with other people -- and each of us already does that every single day. Along with our need to eat and breathe, we humans are hardwired to bond with others. So, when you view networking as an opportunity to connect with people, it becomes less about "work" and more about "life". Still not a believer? Ok...then consider this:

Three Common Myths about Networking

Whether you're looking for a job, an internship, or a contact for an informational interview, networking is the key to accessing the needed information. Therefore, learning how to build and engage your network effectively is a vital Career Literacy™ skill. Once learned, networking becomes a way of "life" not a "work" thing.

Many people under-estimate the value of this skill. Worse yet, some dread the very thought of networking. Oftentimes this fear comes from misconceptions about the process. But, by separating fact from fiction and gaining a deeper understanding of what networking is (and is not), you can take the "work" out of networking.

Here's a closer look at three common myths and the realities of networking:

The Unvarnished Truth

You're probably not going to run out and look for that "I love networking" bumper sticker any time soon. But when you understand that the process starts with helping others and when you do your part to build and cultivate mutually beneficial, long-lasting professional relationships, networking becomes less about "work" and more about "life".