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The 20-Minute Networking Meeting: Learn to Network. Get a Job.
This is an updated edition of ISBN10: 098591064X (ISBN13: 9780985910648).
Welcome to The 20-Minute Networking Meeting! This book will successfully serve any job-seeker from any background--field sales to customer service; doctor to bartender; teacher to derrickman; legal aid to construction; retail to management. All you need is desire; the rest is in this book!
Built using the acclaimed The 20-Minute Networking Meeting--Executive Edition networking model lauded by business leaders around the world, the Professional Edition puts you in control of your job-search discussions and, ultimately, your career.Taking the best elements of the best networkers from a multitude of industries and professions, combined with 40 years of the authors' own experience, the Professional Edition culminates in a highly productive networking approach from a hiring perspective.
In this book, learn what networking (really) is, and how to:
* Master the 5 most important parts of a networking meeting
* Create a networking agenda
* Construct key questions to lead a discussion
* Expand a professional network with more names
* Break into the "Invisible/Hidden Job Market" (where over 70% of all jobs are obtained)
* Make a networking meeting more effective, efficient, and mutually beneficial* Execute the above (and much more)-- inside of 20 minutes
* Maintain your new network throughout your career!
Chock full of real-world scenarios, short stories, meeting examples, and dozens of tips and observations from hiring authorities and recruiting experts, the Professional Edition is an end-to-end lesson on job-search networking, founded on the premises of gratitude, positivity, and reciprocity.
Specifically constructed to clarify and simplify networking for job-search, the Professional Edition was written for even the most introverted networker and is rounded out with a complete set of readiness worksheets that guide the reader through actual networking preparation, with fully written stories that show the entire The 20-Minute Networking Meeting model in action.
Welcome to The 20-Minute Networking Meeting! This book will successfully serve any job-seeker from any background--field sales to customer service; doctor to bartender; teacher to derrickman; legal aid to construction; retail to management. All you need is desire; the rest is in this book!
Built using the acclaimed The 20-Minute Networking Meeting--Executive Edition networking model lauded by business leaders around the world, the Professional Edition puts you in control of your job-search discussions and, ultimately, your career.Taking the best elements of the best networkers from a multitude of industries and professions, combined with 40 years of the authors' own experience, the Professional Edition culminates in a highly productive networking approach from a hiring perspective.
In this book, learn what networking (really) is, and how to:
* Master the 5 most important parts of a networking meeting
* Create a networking agenda
* Construct key questions to lead a discussion
* Expand a professional network with more names
* Break into the "Invisible/Hidden Job Market" (where over 70% of all jobs are obtained)
* Make a networking meeting more effective, efficient, and mutually beneficial* Execute the above (and much more)-- inside of 20 minutes
* Maintain your new network throughout your career!
Chock full of real-world scenarios, short stories, meeting examples, and dozens of tips and observations from hiring authorities and recruiting experts, the Professional Edition is an end-to-end lesson on job-search networking, founded on the premises of gratitude, positivity, and reciprocity.
Specifically constructed to clarify and simplify networking for job-search, the Professional Edition was written for even the most introverted networker and is rounded out with a complete set of readiness worksheets that guide the reader through actual networking preparation, with fully written stories that show the entire The 20-Minute Networking Meeting model in action.
182 pages, Paperback
Published March 18, 2016
176 people are currently reading
484 people want to read
About the author
Nathan A. Perez
3 books6 followersNathan A. Perez is an award-winning author, national speaker and executive career and job-search coach at Career Innovation.
Prior to his Career Innovation consultancy, Nathan worked in the executive search industry in the Research function. Responsible for the first step in the executive recruitment process, Nathan researched and "found" the candidates for recruitment. Networking is a day-to-day function of his job, connecting with leaders across the country on a regular basis. He has been cited by The Huffington Post as one of the most connected people on LinkedIn, world-wide.
Author of the multi-award-winning job-search networking book The 20-Minute Networking Meeting, Nathan speaks on its principles to students, veterans, career coaches, executives and corporate teams everywhere. Nathan draws on 20 years of stage, film and television experience in New York City and Hollywood, and is a member of the Actors Equity Association union (AEA); a voting union member of The Screen-Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA); the Author's Guild; and served as Vice Chair at The Loft Literary Center, the nation's largest literary and writing organization. He was recently inducted as an Honorary Commander with the 934th Airlift Wing, U.S. Air Force Reserve, home of the Global Vikings.
Prior to his Career Innovation consultancy, Nathan worked in the executive search industry in the Research function. Responsible for the first step in the executive recruitment process, Nathan researched and "found" the candidates for recruitment. Networking is a day-to-day function of his job, connecting with leaders across the country on a regular basis. He has been cited by The Huffington Post as one of the most connected people on LinkedIn, world-wide.
Author of the multi-award-winning job-search networking book The 20-Minute Networking Meeting, Nathan speaks on its principles to students, veterans, career coaches, executives and corporate teams everywhere. Nathan draws on 20 years of stage, film and television experience in New York City and Hollywood, and is a member of the Actors Equity Association union (AEA); a voting union member of The Screen-Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA); the Author's Guild; and served as Vice Chair at The Loft Literary Center, the nation's largest literary and writing organization. He was recently inducted as an Honorary Commander with the 934th Airlift Wing, U.S. Air Force Reserve, home of the Global Vikings.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 13, 2024
This was a book I wish I’d read earlier during my job search. When I first began the search, I imagined focusing on expanding my skill-set, polishing my resume, and crafting good cover letters were my top priorities. However, I have since been convinced of the importance of networking, which certainly surpasses any resume or cover letter prep. It is a subject that I knew very little about.
The core of this book is truly beyond teaching the reader how to conduct an efficient networking meeting. Really, this book is about three values. When conducting professional meetings, your language, time management, and choice of subjects should show the quality of those three values, which are: competence, preparation, and consideration. Are you capable? Or are you awaiting a favor?
The core of this book is truly beyond teaching the reader how to conduct an efficient networking meeting. Really, this book is about three values. When conducting professional meetings, your language, time management, and choice of subjects should show the quality of those three values, which are: competence, preparation, and consideration. Are you capable? Or are you awaiting a favor?
October 15, 2025
Practical, Minnesota-Made Wisdom on Networking
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The 20-Minute Networking Meeting by Nathan A. Perez and Marcia Ballinger, PhD (a Minnesota author!) is a refreshingly practical guide that brings structure, focus, and confidence to the networking process. While it’s written primarily for job seekers, it’s just as valuable for anyone in outreach or sales who relies on building genuine connections to open doors.
Marcia Ballinger is actually presenting at our next quarterly meeting (thanks to our community associate, Laura!), and after reading this, it’s easy to see why. The book takes what’s often an awkward or time-wasting process and turns it into a polished, intentional conversation that respects everyone’s time.
Honestly, I wish more vendor sales pitches followed this 20-minute format. Too often, I’ve sat through hour-long calls filled with small talk and fluff. This book proves that clear purpose and preparation are far more effective than over-talking your point.
💡 Helpful Nugget: One of the best takeaways is the idea of “closing strong.” Always end your networking or sales conversation by confirming next steps—whether that’s a follow-up email, an introduction, or sharing materials. It shows respect, clarity, and professionalism while keeping the relationship moving forward.
Concise, smart, and rooted in real-world experience—this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to be better at connecting without overcomplicating it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The 20-Minute Networking Meeting by Nathan A. Perez and Marcia Ballinger, PhD (a Minnesota author!) is a refreshingly practical guide that brings structure, focus, and confidence to the networking process. While it’s written primarily for job seekers, it’s just as valuable for anyone in outreach or sales who relies on building genuine connections to open doors.
Marcia Ballinger is actually presenting at our next quarterly meeting (thanks to our community associate, Laura!), and after reading this, it’s easy to see why. The book takes what’s often an awkward or time-wasting process and turns it into a polished, intentional conversation that respects everyone’s time.
Honestly, I wish more vendor sales pitches followed this 20-minute format. Too often, I’ve sat through hour-long calls filled with small talk and fluff. This book proves that clear purpose and preparation are far more effective than over-talking your point.
💡 Helpful Nugget: One of the best takeaways is the idea of “closing strong.” Always end your networking or sales conversation by confirming next steps—whether that’s a follow-up email, an introduction, or sharing materials. It shows respect, clarity, and professionalism while keeping the relationship moving forward.
Concise, smart, and rooted in real-world experience—this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to be better at connecting without overcomplicating it.
November 30, 2020
This super-quick read is very useful. Straightforward, easy tips to making your networking convos as successful and productive as possible. I’ll definitely be structuring my future meetings around these suggestions.
March 7, 2020
A terrific book! As a career counselor, I've developed a method of networking (informational interviews) that reflects this approach. Kudos to the authors for making it easier for folks to understand the importance of developing respectful, meaningful connections. Way to go!
I highly, highly recommend this book.
V
I highly, highly recommend this book.
V
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August 19, 2023ok we will see if this works
January 4, 2017
While I've been doing networking as a fiction writer for years, that's very different from this business school model that is becoming more and more the norm. I'm not sure how comfortable I am with this process, but this book really did help. This was recommended by my job coach, since it's been 20 years since I last had to look for a job and the process has changed enormously.
I think it's grossly unfair that we continue to add barriers like this to finding jobs, making it harder and harder for socioeconomically depressed job seekers and students to get the jobs that will allow them to prosper. I know a fair number of people with autism, anxiety, or just an introverted nature who I'm sure find this process daunting, even if they are perfectly qualified for a position. I'm also disappointed that this book wasn't available in my major metropolitan library, since it would be a great resource for folks who can't afford to buy it.
I think it's grossly unfair that we continue to add barriers like this to finding jobs, making it harder and harder for socioeconomically depressed job seekers and students to get the jobs that will allow them to prosper. I know a fair number of people with autism, anxiety, or just an introverted nature who I'm sure find this process daunting, even if they are perfectly qualified for a position. I'm also disappointed that this book wasn't available in my major metropolitan library, since it would be a great resource for folks who can't afford to buy it.
January 31, 2023
The gist of 20 Minute Networking is you ask three questions (following the same format) and then two questions essentially asking for referral and to offer help. 20 Minute Networking's advice sounds efficient at first glance yet it can *easily* backfire.
I'd recommend "The 2-Hour Job Search" (2HJS) by Steve Dalton instead. Even though it's more about job searching than general networking it has better advice. Here are a few key differences.
1. Keep the meeting short but you don't have to keep it 20 minutes sharp. Your contact won't be impressed because you rushed a half hour meeting in 20 minutes.
2. This book has you blithely ask for a referral in your fourth question. 2HJS is way more tactical. Instead, ask first if you can follow up with questions later. Then at that point you can ask. This way you can gauge the contact's willingness.
3. This book makes you offer help on your fifth question. Unless you have something specific to offer that you're very sure the contact would want, don't make a generic offer to help. It's a meaningless gesture and they don't care.
4. The "I noticed X, can you tell me how X helped you" format is okay for one question but making it all your questions isn't helpful. It's too specific. If you can't find any details on your contact for whatever reason, it's pointless. The 2HJS TIARA framework works better because it's more open ended.
The advice in this book might help if your goal is to power through many meetings and maybe connect with a few. I tried the advice in both books. 2HJS is more successful. 20 Minute Networking didn't help at all.
I'd recommend "The 2-Hour Job Search" (2HJS) by Steve Dalton instead. Even though it's more about job searching than general networking it has better advice. Here are a few key differences.
1. Keep the meeting short but you don't have to keep it 20 minutes sharp. Your contact won't be impressed because you rushed a half hour meeting in 20 minutes.
2. This book has you blithely ask for a referral in your fourth question. 2HJS is way more tactical. Instead, ask first if you can follow up with questions later. Then at that point you can ask. This way you can gauge the contact's willingness.
3. This book makes you offer help on your fifth question. Unless you have something specific to offer that you're very sure the contact would want, don't make a generic offer to help. It's a meaningless gesture and they don't care.
4. The "I noticed X, can you tell me how X helped you" format is okay for one question but making it all your questions isn't helpful. It's too specific. If you can't find any details on your contact for whatever reason, it's pointless. The 2HJS TIARA framework works better because it's more open ended.
The advice in this book might help if your goal is to power through many meetings and maybe connect with a few. I tried the advice in both books. 2HJS is more successful. 20 Minute Networking didn't help at all.
March 22, 2022
One of the quickest guides to preparing for a networking meeting, this book explores why networking is important, some myths associated with it, and also deep-dives into many scenarios that help shed light on the dos and don’ts of networking.
I went into this book expecting practical insights that would be applicable for specific circumstances, and that was my mistake.
This is a good beginner’s guide to understanding the importance of networking and how to get started with it.
It’s a quick read. In fact, I used the audiobook and was able to finish reading it in less than 2 hours. The book is structured in 2 different parts. The first one sets the foundation and helps you open up to some mindset shifts about networking.
The second part is the one where... Read the rest of the review on my blog.
I went into this book expecting practical insights that would be applicable for specific circumstances, and that was my mistake.
This is a good beginner’s guide to understanding the importance of networking and how to get started with it.
It’s a quick read. In fact, I used the audiobook and was able to finish reading it in less than 2 hours. The book is structured in 2 different parts. The first one sets the foundation and helps you open up to some mindset shifts about networking.
The second part is the one where... Read the rest of the review on my blog.
May 31, 2025
I really liked this book. It’s packed with good, practical advice for anyone wanting to grow their network, especially if you’re looking for a new job. It breaks down how to structure a 20-minute networking meeting so it’s productive and positive for both sides.
What I liked most was how clear and simple they make the process. You get examples, real stories, and a step-by-step format that’s easy to follow, even if you’re not naturally a networker.
If you want to open doors and tap into the hidden job market, this book gives you a straightforward, no-nonsense way to do it. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking to strengthen their connections and approach networking with more confidence.
What I liked most was how clear and simple they make the process. You get examples, real stories, and a step-by-step format that’s easy to follow, even if you’re not naturally a networker.
If you want to open doors and tap into the hidden job market, this book gives you a straightforward, no-nonsense way to do it. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking to strengthen their connections and approach networking with more confidence.
October 22, 2025
Severely underrated book that is essential to those in business, sales, or anyone at any stage in their career. As the book mentions several times, networking is more than important - it’s vital for anyone seeking a job or insight on anything, really. I read 20MNM while aggressively job hunting. After applying ALL the principles this book provided pertaining to networking, nearly all my meetings became a massive success. I consistently landed dozens of opportunities, job interviews, and additional contacts that I still keep in touch with today. As a side note, I’d also recommend watching the YouTube video that illustrates all the concepts of this book in about 10 minutes. Just search “Mock Informational Meeting” and it’s the first video by Roy Young.
March 17, 2024
Quick read. Offers invaluable insights for effective networking. Grateful for its five-step preparation guide, in which I learned the value of clarifying objectives, such as introduction to a hiring manager or mentorship. Invaluable insight includes ending the meeting by asking the contact 'How can I help you?'Be prepared to make suggestions based on things that came up in the conversation eg. providing information, making introductions, sending an article, or an invitation to connect with you in future on anything they need help with. A quick wrap up including a summary of what next steps are is brilliant as well. Highly recommended!
December 19, 2024
The 20-Minute Networking Meeting* provides great advice and a helpful structure for networking, but I found myself feeling a bit lost at first when it came to applying the principles in real-life situations. The framework is clear—prepare, respect time, and follow up—but I needed to do some additional research and reflection to really understand how to make it work for me. That said, once I pieced it together, the book’s guidance felt practical and actionable. I’ll definitely try to follow its advice in my next networking conversation and see how it goes. It’s a solid resource, but it might require some extra effort to fully grasp for those new to networking.
January 31, 2022
I have read the professional edition of this book, can’t speak for the graduate or executive edition, but if both follow the same structure, then it’s good. A lot of examples which help the reader build vocabulary needed in networking meetings, as well as seeing the alternative ways one can formulate an idea. I am a beginner at networking and found this book helpful. The appendix offers additional resources to help you lead your own networking meetings which is great.
I recommend buying the paperback version, so you can take notes directly there
I recommend buying the paperback version, so you can take notes directly there
June 10, 2025
Yes, yes, and yes! It was validating to hear so may great tips on being effective at networking, especially for a job search, in this book. As a career coach, I'm sharing a lot of this tips frequently, but I specifically appreciate the structure and formats suggested. I'm excited to read this with my eyes too, as I think those concepts will sink in further and I look forward to recommending it to my clients!
July 2, 2025
What intrigued me: My career coach, Madison, recommended this book.
What I liked: This is a very quick read, and it's easy to start using immediately. I am looking forward to putting this learning to good use.
What I didn't like: I didn't need all the back and forth with the appendix. Those items could have been slotted into the actual chapters for less back and forth.
Favorite quote: “Be the professional that you are and lead!” p. 74
What I liked: This is a very quick read, and it's easy to start using immediately. I am looking forward to putting this learning to good use.
What I didn't like: I didn't need all the back and forth with the appendix. Those items could have been slotted into the actual chapters for less back and forth.
Favorite quote: “Be the professional that you are and lead!” p. 74
July 3, 2025
The title of this book is fairly self explanatory. More to the point, it draws from common executive practices to present concise directions on how to arrange and conduct short informational and networking interviews. Although, some of the suggestions in this book will not be easy to implement in all situations it is a treasure trove of ideas and most job seekers and networkers will find it useful.
July 10, 2025
Would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone at any point in their networking journey.
The advice was so practical, the examples so relatable, and it went beyond just the common sense stuff. Even just reading that a lot of these tips were things that I was already doing felt reassuring (and you can never have too much reassurance while job hunting).
I thought it was so helpful that I'm going to read the graduate edition next.
The advice was so practical, the examples so relatable, and it went beyond just the common sense stuff. Even just reading that a lot of these tips were things that I was already doing felt reassuring (and you can never have too much reassurance while job hunting).
I thought it was so helpful that I'm going to read the graduate edition next.
July 31, 2025
Okay, admittedly I more skimmed than read this book, because I'm not looking for a job -- I was more interested in anything useful it might have for professional networking for my kind of work, because I literally have a networking meeting with a colleague tomorrow. There were some relevant tips and reminders. It's definitely meant for someone with only a very basic understanding of the networking meeting and what it's for.
August 24, 2025
This is one of those books that tells you nothing new. Everything should be self explanatory and common sense. What is great it how it is organized and how it reminds you of those little things you can take for granted. I also love the last question "How can I be helpful to you?" I would recommend this to everyone - even those talented at networking. Overall, just a great reminder of how to network.
July 2, 2018
Engaging and packed with insights.
While it doesn't account for many different scenarios like asking contacts to let you know if they see or hear of any opportunities, this concise guide helps you gain evangelists which would be willing to do more than be your eyes and ears by demonstrating respect, gratitude and preparedness.
While it doesn't account for many different scenarios like asking contacts to let you know if they see or hear of any opportunities, this concise guide helps you gain evangelists which would be willing to do more than be your eyes and ears by demonstrating respect, gratitude and preparedness.
February 17, 2021
This is a great, quick read. Networking is scary and intimidating even if you are a people person like me. The book is light, easy to follow, and contains valuable information on how to be effective and successful at networking. If you’re looking to find a job or just expand your professional contacts, start here. It will set you up for success.
April 23, 2024
Listened to the book twice and printed the PDF materials that come with the audio book for reference. This book has changed my entire approach to networking, job search and meetings in general. The approach is tight, powerful and impactful. I will be recommending it to anybody and everybody in transition.
February 26, 2019
This book offers a clear, no-nonsense approach to setting up and conducting a networking meeting as part of a smart job search strategy. As a job search and interview coach, I constantly recommend it to my clients.
September 12, 2023
Quick read with practical and applicable advice
Definitely a book to buy to refer back to later. The appendix needs to be printed and copied!! Can't wait to apply the knowledge I just gained.
Definitely a book to buy to refer back to later. The appendix needs to be printed and copied!! Can't wait to apply the knowledge I just gained.
March 22, 2025
This book was given to me by a mentor and friend. This dives into an effective method for networking (for getting a job or just building your circle)
Loved the short, punchy chapters with tactical steps and examples
Loved the short, punchy chapters with tactical steps and examples
May 24, 2025
Excellent book for anyone who is looking to network more professionally but doesn’t know where to get started. Very pragmatic. Easy to read (only takes maybe a few hours total to read cover to cover). Easy to apply the strategies right away. Highly recommend for anyone in career transition.
December 29, 2017
Good solid book on how to network. Great for people starting out in their careers, but probably helpful for anyone who isn't sure how to go about it.
March 26, 2018
Great suggestions for making networking meetings more productive during the job search.
June 18, 2018
Must read!
Absolute must read for any executive. I wish I had read this at the beginning of my career and practiced its’ teachings throughout.
Absolute must read for any executive. I wish I had read this at the beginning of my career and practiced its’ teachings throughout.
January 8, 2019
Incredibly helpful and great, practical information
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews