Success Runs in Our Race: The Complete Guide to Effective Networking in the Black Community

by George C. Fraser

A completely updated and revised edition of a bestselling book that has helped tens of thousands of people learn how to network effectively, Success Runs in Our Race is more important than ever in this fluctuating economy. With scores of anecdotes taken from interviews with successful African Americans -- from Keith Clinkscales, founder and former CEO of Vanguarde Media, to Oprah Winfrey -- Fraser shows how to network for information, for influence, and for resources. Readers will learn, among other things, how to cultivate valuable listening skills, which conferences blacks are most likely to attend when looking to build their business network, and how to effectively circulate a résumé.

More than a guide for personal achievement, this is an information-packed bible of networking that also seeks to inspire a social movement and a rebirth of the "Underground Railroad," in which successful African Americans share the lessons of self-determination and empowerment with those still struggling to scale the ladder of success.

Genres: Business, Self Help

420 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 22, 1994

Reviews

[Adra · Rating 5 out of 5]

My goal for reading this book at first was to simply take a self measurement on my strengths and weaknesses as it applies to networking. After completeting this book, I'd come fo find that I've got a lot of homework to do. Reading Fraser's book help me realize a very vital point. Networking goes way and far beyond just attending a function and exchanging a business card. The exchange of a card is only a starting point. Networking is a process that can not be created over night. The art of networking comes from building relationships. From establishing relationships productive networking is and cannot be created until everyone within the arena wins.

This book breaks down the steps neceessary networking skills for individuals looking for jobs, building businesses, and for individuals trying to push their businesses to the next level. Quoted directly by Fraser my favorite wordage from this book is the following, "Networking is not a buzz word. It is very real and the practical method of creating opportunities for our people." In addition his rules for real networking should be on the refrigerators of all African Americans sincere about uplifting of our people in relation to networking. The rules are listed as follows:

1. Networking is about bulding a relationship first.
2. Make networking a way of life.
3. Always be prepared to network.
4. Give first and expect nothing.
5. Build Rapport.
6. Become an active listener.
7. Treat everyone with respect.
8. Think race and culture first.
9. Keep the line up opening.
10. Give thanks to your network.

Kuddos to Fraser for taking the time and writing a learning tool that is truly so needed and neccessary for African Americans everywhere needing guidance and education on correct and appropriate networking.

[Deborah Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here we are in 2012 and networking is more relevant now than it was when George Fraser wrote this book. Noting some of the obstacles that have blocked the use of networking in the African American community, he effectively uses the history of the extended family as a way to make the point that we've always shared resources as a way to make it.

[Jay100k · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book I've read from Mr Fraser, it was an amazing book even though I struggled a little to get through it. As a young black man, this book taught me a lot of facts about the success in our race, disturbing facts we need to fix together, and how to network with people of all kinds in our community. I would recommend this book to any man or woman interested in networking. It goes deep into the topic. Ways to approach/talk/keep a network going. A must-read!

[Jay DeMoir · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great guide on networking.

I found the “etiquette of introductions” to be most insightful.

[John Laramore · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great read on networking!

[Rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book reminded me of some of the simple things we often forget - such as the importance of relationships. Nobody can go at it alone.... we owe it to ourselves as a people to be supportive and give back.

[Bridgett Renay · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Education and Experience

This was such a good read. I feel more certain that I will succeed in my entrepreneurial goals and also have a better understanding of how to move about in the world of networking.

[Adrienna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was interested in networking and more input about our race as a whole.