Success Runs in Our Race: The Complete Guide to Effective Networking in the Black Community [Paperback]

George C. Fraser (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 30, 2004

A completely updated and revised edition of a bestselling book that has helped tens of thousands of people learn how to network effectively, Success Runs in Our Race is more important than ever in this fluctuating economy. With scores of anecdotes taken from interviews with successful African Americans -- from Keith Clinkscales, founder and former CEO of Vanguarde Media, to Oprah Winfrey -- Fraser shows how to network for information, for influence, and for resources. Readers will learn, among other things, how to cultivate valuable listening skills, which conferences blacks are most likely to attend when looking to build their business network, and how to effectively circulate a rÉsumÉ.

More than a guide for personal achievement, this is an information-packed bible of networking that also seeks to inspire a social movement and a rebirth of the "Underground Railroad," in which successful African Americans share the lessons of self-determination and empowerment with those still struggling to scale the ladder of success.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Fraser, founder and CEO of SuccessSource, which publishes directories of African-American professionals, here advises black Americans on how to achieve personal and career success. He recommends pragmatic goals--"increase public awareness of black excellence . . . promote racial pride"--and actions--"bring positive black role models into your community schools"--in combination with his suggestions on networking for information, influence and resources. Fraser's coverage of 10 tips for whites seeking to network with African-Americans and minority firms enhances this guide: go to black events, shun racial jokes and "please, avoid saying, 'Some of my best friends are black.' " The profiles presented of such entrepreneurs as John H. Johnson, head of Johnson Publishing, are inspiring, as is Fraser's recounting of his own rise from poverty.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From Library Journal

In this book on networking techniques, Fraser, founder and CEO of SuccessSource Inc., argues that networking must become a way of life. He stresses the principles of Kwanzaa and African communal spirit, urging African Americans to adopt these concepts as a way of developing not only black businesses but black communities. The power of the book is that Fraser uses his and 13 other successful African Americans' experiences as examples. Also included are 20 exercises for networking, 25 best places to network, the dos and don'ts of networking, and the 50 best black speakers in America. This is a readable book loaded with valuable tips, but unlike other books on networking, Fraser places these techniques in a context that emphasizes developing the community along with the individual. The combination of philosophy and practice make this book highly recommended.
Joshua Cohen, Mid-Hudson Lib. System, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks; Rev Upd Su edition (March 30, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0060578718
• ISBN-13: 978-0060578718
• Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 5.4 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.9 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #958,468 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The book for the next millenium!, April 23, 2001

By 

Lone Star Reader (Irving, TX United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Success Runs in Our Race: The Complete Guide to Effective Networking in the African-American Community (Paperback)

I would recommend reading this book, as well as giving this book as a gift to all college graduates. The chapter that tells how to create and do an awards ceremony in less than 2 hours alone is worth the price of the book! I particularly liked the way he defined "networking" vs. "neck-working"--and how to handle those who have mistaken one for the other. (Neck-working is misusing your opportunity to network by trying to hit on the opposite sex--a definite no-no!) Mr. Fraser's solid hints on connecting with like-minded individuals in the black community and giving back to the community, not abandoning it are fantastic--and doable. If you like commentary by people like Tavis Smiley, this is your book!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Quality business and professional guidance!, March 23, 2007

By 

Robert E. Donald - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Success Runs in Our Race: The Complete Guide to Effective Networking in the Black Community (Hardcover)

George Fraser knows what is required to be successful in business or in your professional life no matter what your career or profession. Many of the skills he talks about in his book can be applied to your work life or your personal endeavors. On the surface this might sound odd but the success characteristics are the same. What he talks about are the required behaviors that lead to your ultimate success. I will never forget how he emphasizes the importance of networking and how your networks must be cultivated in order to gain maximum benefit. He made the point very clear when I heard him talk to a group when he said, "networking is much more than meeting someone then calling them the next week to ask for a business favor." If everyone learns that networking is and must be created for win/win situations, everyone realizes benefits in the long run. This is a wonderful book and one that has value for anyone attempting to gain a competitive advantage in the business world. Relationships are how things get done in the business world and this book certainly provides the required tools for making that happen.

5.0 out of 5 stars Look No Further African Americans for Your Networking Guide!!, July 25, 2010

By 

Ardannyl "Live Ladies of Literature" (Detroit, Michigan) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Success Runs in Our Race: The Complete Guide to Effective Networking in the Black Community (Paperback)

My goal for reading this book at first was to simply take a self measurement on my strengths and weaknesses as it applies to networking. After completeting this book, I'd come fo find that I've got a lot of homework to do. Reading Fraser's book help me realize a very vital point. Networking goes way and far beyond just attending a function and exchanging a business card. The exchange of a card is only a starting point. Networking is a process that can not be created over night. The art of networking comes from building relationships. From establishing relationships productive networking is and cannot be created until everyone within the arena wins.

This book breaks down the steps neceessary networking skills for individuals looking for jobs, building businesses, and for individuals trying to push their businesses to the next level. Quoted directly by Fraser my favorite wordage from this book is the following, "Networking is not a buzz word. It is very real and the practical method of creating opportunities for our people." In addition his rules for real networking should be on the refrigerators of all African Americans sincere about uplifting of our people in relation to networking. The rules are listed as follows:

1. Networking is about bulding a relationship first.
2. Make networking a way of life.
3. Always be prepared to network.
4. Give first and expect nothing.
5. Build Rapport.
6. Become an active listener.
7. Treat everyone with respect.
8. Think race and culture first.
9. Keep the line up opening.
10. Give thanks to your network.

Kuddos to Fraser for taking the time and writing a learning tool that is truly so needed and neccessary for African Americans everywhere needing guidance and education on correct and appropriate networking.

Adra Young
Author of: The Everyday Living of Children & Teens Monologue Series