In my experience, the best way to find and help new players is to do the mentor roulette. There is usually a sprout or two (or a returning player) in every run. White Mage is great for this. Instead of explaining mechanics, just let them experience it themselves and learn from their own mistakes. As a WHM it's very easy to keep the party alive. If they ask for help or are really struggling, then you can start volunteering advice. I don't generally say anything about playstyle or gear unless they've forgotten their tank stance or are wearing glamour by accident or something. If they can clear the content they signed up for, they are on the right track.

As for Novice Network, sad to say, but I rarely see it used for its intended purpose. As others have stated, mentors like to use it as a general chat linkshell. New players are generally shy and don't want to ask for help in big chat channels. They seem more receptive to talking and asking for help in instanced content.