By Irene Conlan -

There’s a new book in the Skinny On … series – The Skinny On Networking: Maximizing the  Power of Numbers by Jim Randel. It was released August 1 and is now available for purchase.  It’s a quick read and, like the other Skinny On books  has everything you need to know to be successful at – in this case -  networking. Even with interruptions I read it in less that two hours and, although I consider myself a “good networker,” I picked up some gems I wish I had had when at the height of my business career. Not to worry, even though I’m retired now,  I can still use the meaty material in this book.

Complete with the trademark stick figures that tell a story while making critical points about networking, this book will take you from A to Z. Starting with list making and continuing through to knowing what you want and how to express it clearly you will find yourself saying, “Why didn’t I think of that before?” You will learn about  finding and using connectors – those people who can get you to the people you need.  After reading this book you will begin to think of networking as much more than meeting, greeting and handing out a business card.

Randel defines networking as developing and utilizing relationships with other people. Notice he doesn’t limit networking business and in fact points out that it can open you up to new friendships and personal growth.

Randel states” Networking is not just about business. Networking is about increasing your depth and breadth as a person. What starts out as a business relationship may well end up as a friendship.” If you aren’t in business for yourself but want to build a network of friends, or seek volunteers and/or donations for a favorite charit, etc.  you will get valuable tips on how to go about doing that. If you want to expand your networking on the Internet, you will find valuable tips on how to do that more effectively.

The top ten networking lessons you’ll learn from this book are:

1. Make networking an important part of your business strategy.
2. When you have a specific need, start with family and friends.
3. When you want something, be precise in explaining it to others.
4. Reach outside your comfort zone.
5. Find ‘connectors’ and buddy up to them.
6. The Internet is a super-powerful connector.
7. Don’t assume people will help you just to be nice. Give them a reason to help you.
8. Give before you receive.
9. Be aware of your social capital.
10. Networking is not just about business.

You can order this book from Amazon.com or go to http://theskinnyon.com/networking.aspx

The Skinny on Networking: maximizing the power of numbers. Randel, Jim.Rand Media, 2010.