Make More Friends in 20 Days

Whether you know it or not, you are already a prolific networker. Your network consists of everyone you know, and the length of this list would probably surprise you (try writing it out if you like. Include EVERYONE). Any time you interact with someone, you're networking. But could you be a better networker? Almost certainly. As with anything else, improvement requires practice. Since networking is largely subconscious, it can be a difficult thing to practice. So why bother? Networking is "the process of developing and maintaining quality relationships that are mutually beneficial" (-Karen Zastudil). Your network is an invaluable tool for career advancement, and just for general ease of life. A developed network increases your ability to be effective in your own job; your network stores knowledge so you don't have to. If Jake knows all about chemistry and Frank knows all about accounting, you don't have to know either of those things. You can just call Jake or Frank when you have a question.This book describes twenty activities you can do consciously to increase your subconscious networking ability. The idea is that many of these activities, when repeated over time, will eventually become second nature. The activities are divided by the three stages of networking. First is preparation - readying yourself to maximize your interactions. Second is execution - getting out of the house and meeting people. Third is maintenance - keeping in touch with your network. Give networking a fair chance; do one activity every day for the next twenty days.