Stand Out Networking: A Simple and Authentic Way to Meet People on Your Own Terms

by Dorie Clark

Few professional activities are as nerve-wracking as networking. There’s the paralyzing prospect of entering a room full of strangers. The awkward introductions and stilted small talk. The concern that “networking” means you have to exploit others for personal gain – or might appear that way. It’s no wonder so many talented professionals eschew networking altogether. Unfortunately, that means they’re limiting their chances of making the kind of great personal and professional connections that can expand their worldview, enrich their lives, and – yes – even lead to new business opportunities.   That’s why it’s time to reclaim networking. It doesn’t have to be the province of users and takers; instead, as Forbes and Harvard Business Review contributor Dorie Clark makes clear in this short and actionable guide, networking done right is nothing like the stereotype. It’s not about making shallow, insincere connections and filling your wallet with business cards. Instead, the real goal is to turn brief encounters into mutually-beneficial and lasting friendships—in both your personal and professional life.   Drawing on wisdom from her own experience and from experts like psychologist Robert Cialdini, marketer Michael Katz, and authors Judy Robinett and Keith Ferrazzi, Clark provides valuable insight on how to be a good networker, including concrete tips on how   -          Turn initial small talk into meaningful exchanges -          Unlock the power of social media as a networking tool -          Transform casual online contacts into real-world connections -          Make the most of conferences -          Set a schedule for keeping in regular touch with your network -          Repair and strengthen troubled relationships -          Create your own events and become a connector   Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, and whether you currently relish or loathe making new connections, Clark will teach you the strategies you need to make networking fun, joyful, and enriching.

Genres: Business, Nonfiction, Self Help, Personal Development

70 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 9, 2015

About the author

Dorie Clark helps individuals and companies get their best ideas heard in a crowded, noisy world. She has been named one of the Top 50 business thinkers in the world by Thinkers50. She was honored as the #1 Communication Coach by the Marshall Goldsmith Leading Global Coaches Awards and one of the Top 5 Communication Professionals in the World by Global Gurus. She is a keynote speaker and teaches for Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and Columbia Business School.

She is the author of The Long Game, Entrepreneurial You, Reinventing You, and Stand Out, which was named the #1 Leadership Book of the Year by Inc. magazine.

A former presidential campaign spokeswoman, Clark has been described by the New York Times as an “expert at self-reinvention and helping others make changes in their lives.” She is a frequent contributor to the Harvard Business Review, and consults and speaks for clients such as Google, Yale University, and the World Bank. Forbes has declared that “her insights connect marketing, social media, communications, learning technologies, and personal discovery to give us a blueprint for success in the future economy.”

She is a graduate of Harvard Divinity School, a producer of a multiple Grammy-winning jazz album, and a Broadway investor. You can download her free Long Game Strategic Thinking Self-Assessment at dorieclark.com/thelonggame.

Reviews

[Melisa Buie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Stand Out Networking, Clark has presented many alternative approaches to networking. As so many other reviewers have pointed out, among the many options, there is likely one that resonates with you whether you are an introvert or extrovert. I love her 'review your options and bring your authentic self to networking' approach. Quick and easy to read or even skim as you find sections appeal.

[Helen Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book I read on networking - and in my opinion - the best. As a classic introvert, the thought of going out there and "selling myself" was a horrifying prospect. The few times I did it, I felt I came across as someone that I would have actively disliked meeting. I liked the simple alternative that this book offers.

[Anne Janzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

If the idea of networking makes you feel uncomfortable, read this book. I particularly appreciate her focus on having the right mindset: of being open to serendipity, helpful, and living with integrity.

[Parantap Bhu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book with amazing insights.

Has carefully curated topics and analysis. Very useful for someone starting out their professional journey or looking to expand their network.

[Tom Babinszki · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I have read about networking.

[H · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to be a recognized expert in your field, then this book is for you. Very practical, and advice that works.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

For many, the networking experience is just people trying to promote themselves or wanting something from the people they meet. It is not effective and overall not even really pleasant. A much more effective and enjoyable for of networking, the true purpose, is relationship building.
Author Dorie Clark calls it "bridging." A good term as then benefit can be done in both directions.
She also stresses the need to "focus on going deep, rather than wide, with your connections." Sage advice and she gives several examples of how to do that, how to pick up clues as to connection points or topics. She also covers using social media platforms to connect and network.
Beyond making the original connections we are given advice regarding maintaining and staying in contact.

This book is a wonderful example of repurposed content.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Encouraging and makes networking not so horrible. Changed my mindset towards networking and made me more open to talking to people. Good reminder and options to touch base with people again after initial meeting