Masters of Networking : Building Relationships for Your Pocketbook and Soul

by Don Misner, Ivan R.; Morgan

Shows why networking is the most effective marketing tool today, and explains how you can build a successful networking lifestyle.

Genres: Business, Relationships

Paperback

First published October 25, 2000

Reviews

[Wendy White · Rating 4 out of 5]

My boss recommended this book to me as I told him I was interested in learning more about building communities of practice (internal supportive interest groups for various skills and interest) within our organisation. I was particularly keen to find ways to develop a supportive information-sharing community for our online content authors and editors (of which there are about 50).

He lent me this book, saying a lot of the things I wanted to do came back to the key principles of networking. I'm all for holistic approaches to learning so gave it a go.

Some of the advice is a bit dated now: "Make sure you have a dedicated fax machine line!" But the people-based advice is (mostly) up to date. It was nice to see such a profit-focused audience being given the message that networking should not be selfish, and that people should network to achieve better benefits for the world - not just their own little part of it.

I'd been put off the concept of networking as I'd once knew a self-professed networker, who made it his business to 'work the room' at any social gathering. I was thoroughly turned off because he was always out to find out what was in it for him, he delighted in getting people together and helping them out - but there was always this vulture-like quality that left you feeling greasy after talking to this 'fixer'. Morals did not play a part in his machinations. The book here advocates integrity and sincerity, genuine interest in helping others, and if all 'networkers' embrace these qualities things would be grand indeed.

[Cris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Promoting their own business a bit, but still a lot of good tips on polite networking fundamentals.

[Geoff Kirkwood · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good compiliation of mainly ego based stories from people who used networking to get ahead.

[Jeremiah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned 10 friendly questions to ask people in order to better understand them and to quickly develop trust in the first four minutes of contact (pp 144-146).

[David Driscoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

All about other people and there stories of success. So many different ways to do things but it states theories and the changes people make.