David Burkus, a professor at Oral Roberts University and author of the book \u201cFriend of a Friend,\u201d explains common misconceptions about networking. First, trading business cards at a networking event doesn\u2019t mean you\u2019re a phony. Second, your most valuable contacts are actually the people you already know. Burkus says some of the most useful networking you can do involves strengthening your ties with old friends and current coworkers.