5 Must-Read Books on Networking
Unlike most other aspects of your professional life, networking goes beyond the office walls. Any simple occurrence can turn into a success story. Founder of Metier Digital, Nana Parry started her business after an accidental meeting at the airport, acquiring the first client before she even had a team. The important part is to always be open to new alliances. This is why we are taking a look at a few books about networking skills, that might help you build stronger relationships.
Never Eat Alone: And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time
by Keith Ferrazzi
There are many ways to build and maintain a professional relationship, but Keith Ferrazzi takes a simple approach, he tells his story. Examples in this book are mostly based on the author’s own experiences, but this doesn’t necessarily negate their usefulness.
While the book won’t bring anything new to the table for a seasoned networking whizz, for someone who’s just beginning to build their network, this material would be valuable.
It would be unfair to hide the fact, that many excerpts come off self-promotional, however, even this on its own is a trick that some of the readers have found applicable to their own image. There is no need to shy away from your achievements.
Top of Mind: Use Content to Unleash Your Influence and Engage Those Who Matter to You.
by John Hall
There are many books on content, yet this one teaches you to build targeting into your online mindset. Hall makes it imperative to create and distribute content according to a special strategy, and not use it just for promotion, but for creating weak-ties and strengthening business relationships. Once again, the lesson here is that you have to help others, and sooner or later the desired effect will be achieved.
To summarize, this book is all about creating a symbiosis between marketing and networking, which is only more valuable for your online presence.
Giftology: The Art and Science of Using Gifts to Cut Through the Noise, Increase Referrals, and Strengthen Retention
by John Ruhlin
While the book itself goes way beyond personal relationships, it’s important to know right away, that all the tips and tricks could be adapted to any life situation. And gifts are a universal way of positive communication.
If you believe that finding the right gift to a friend is difficult, wait until you have to pick one for a colleague, boss, or business partner. There is a whole bunch of social conventions that dictate the appropriate quality, price range, and time. “Giftology” makes it simple: generosity breeds gratitude. Gratitude, while it might not pay off right away, will eventually bring the results, and sometimes they are most unexpected.
Aside from being a guide to giving gifts, “Giftology” tells interesting stories of simple presents turning into opportunities.
Taking the Work Out of Networking: An Introvert’s Guide to Making Connections That Count
by Karen Wickre
Being a successful entrepreneur doesn’t prevent one from being an introvert. This book is written for those, who normally avoid social gatherings. Wickre shares her experience and technique that’s helped her build deeper connections. In her philosophy one-on-one approach proves to be more fruitful, while allowing her to avoid social or professional mixers.
Mastermind Dinners: Build Lifelong Relationships by Connecting Experts, Influencers and Linchpins
by Jayson Gaignard
In his book, Jayson Gaignard talks about his experience hosting dinners with like-minded people. This example proves that a carefully planned event might become an ideal way to build and cultivate business relationships.
The main idea of this book is so simple: surround yourself with energetic people, and learn to connect those who would likely click.
In a way, this is the same philosophy that separates Connect.Club from other apps. Here you get a chance to connect with people based on your common interests.
“Mastermind Dinners” is also a valuable choice for those who are looking for efficient ways to widen their social circle.
