The Skinny on Networking
Maximizing the Power of Numbers

by Jim Randel

      “The Skinny on” series deals with different topics using a unique format of stick figures drawings and snippets of advice taken from a variety of sources.

As Jim Randel tells us in the introduction, he and his team do the reading on each topic and interview the experts, then summarize the pearls of wisdom they have obtained through their research. This way, we, the readers, can acquire the knowledge without a huge investment of our time.

The series does not pretend to be a treatise on each subject, but in its light, fun way does give you an overview. It also provides a comprehensive bibliography that will allow you to pursue the subject further.

It works for me. Especially on those subjects like “Networking” which I have been told repeatedly I must master if I want my freelance writing/translation business to succeed, but of which I have no natural skills or previous knowledge.

Networking is about people. Who do you know who can help you grow your business or tell others about it? It's also about numbers: how many people do you know? And how many people do these people know who will expand the awareness of your business and help it grow?

Reading this book, an hour endeavor, helped me demystify the whole process of networking.

Jim Randel's “Skinny” alter ego introduced me to concepts like social capital (“The strength of your relationship with a specific person”), the importance of reciprocity, and networking gravity (“Not only try to meet people but give talks about your expertise or put yourself in situations where people gravitate towards you”).

The book ends with the ten points to remember about networking, a great concise summary to post on your refrigerator as a reminder while you build your business.

Here are my favorites:

#7: Don't assume people will help you just to be nice. Give them a reason to help you.

#10: Don't see networking as just about business. "By reaching out to people... you open your horizons to new friendships and personal growth," Mr. Randel writes.

I couldn't agree more.