Customer Reviews

The Essential Network: Success Through Personal Connections

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Networking is a buzzword-and a technique-of the times. As the world shrinks, through improved communication and speed, the more people you know, the stronger you are. You have greater strength to get things accomplished when you "know someone" who can help you down the path. "Six degrees of separation" has become a mantra for some.

John Bennett, a Certified Management Consultant, has put together an easy-to-read-and use-handbook of networking. There's a technique on each page. Simple, direct, not pages of wasted words. Most of the content seems like common sense, though as Voltaire told us, "common sense is uncommon." There is no table of contents, no index, no appendices. Just page after page of things you ought to know, but might have forgotten. It's a good reminder for everyone involved in networking . . . and we all are.

On most pages, the author also provides us with a box entitled "It works." These sidebars are quotes from a wide range of people who, in short statement, validate the value of networking to them. There is no connection between the technique presented on each page and the quote printed on the same page. It's like reading two books at once, a bit disconcerting, but interesting as well. The quotes offer a glimpse into the thoughts of others and provide a list of some of John Bennett's networking contacts. Nice way to honor your friends, colleagues, and clients.

This book would be a good gift for that new graduate or for a protégé as you start a mentoring relationship.

The principles of business networking in an easy-read and understandable format.

If you depend on relationships to generate business for yourself or your company (and who doesn't?!) this book is for you. It includes examples of successful networking activities (including personal stories from professionals) as well as proven action items suitable for the novice or the experienced networker. Highly recommended.