Book Image

Essential Meeting Blueprints for Managers

By : Sharlyn Lauby
Book Image

Essential Meeting Blueprints for Managers

By: Sharlyn Lauby

Overview of this book

Table of Contents (12 chapters)

Chapter 4. Networking Meetings

Every time I go to a conference, whether it's being hosted by a company or professional organization, I'm reminded of the importance of networking. I meet many wonderful, smart people and I want to stay in touch with them.

One of the best books I've read about networking is Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi. It's somewhat ironic that I read the book while traveling (alone) from a conference. But I digress. Before I share my takeaway from the book, let me first explain what networking isn't:

  • It's not handing out your business card to everyone you meet.

  • It's also not giving your resume to everyone you meet.

  • It's not about calling to ask for favors.

  • It's not something to cross off your 'to-do' list (as in "I networked today.").

Networking is about building relationships. Let me say that again. Networking is about building relationships. And, that's what Keith Ferrazzi's book talks about … how to build relationships. For me, I think of listening, smiling, sharing,...