Even extroverts may get nervous when striking up a conversation.
Still, there’s no denying that forming connections with people can be highly beneficial.
Putting yourself out there leads to the exchange of ideas.
You’re also more likely to meet folks at all professional levels.
The more you keep at it, the more confident you get, which will contribute to your social well-being.
It could also be the missing ingredient that will push your business to the edge of success.
So, how do you improve at it?
By reading books, of course!
In this post, I’m going to list the top-selling books on networking.
I’ll also throw in some books that are specifically for introverts!
Books To Help You Form Meaningful Connections In Business
Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi
Keith Ferrazzi’s book Never Eat Alone, which came out in 2005, has been reprinted more than once.
This book is a manual for making the most of our spare time by engaging with others during our favorite activities with the purpose of extending our social circles.
There is, however, a lot more to it than meets the eye.
Our ability to improve our collaboration skills can be strengthened from the ground up thanks to the knowledge provided by Never Eat Alone.
Networking, in Ferrazzi’s view, involves the actions that follow from a win-win perspective rather than just doing a favor in the hope of getting something in return.
He believes that political glad-handing is not the same as genuine interpersonal connections.
What Ferrazzi is trying to get across is that real connections can only be made when people are open and kind toward one another.
Related Reading: Best Books On The Law Of Attraction – Get The List Here.
How To Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie is possibly the most successful book ever written about professional networking, having sold over 15 million copies and receiving over 600,000 ratings on Goodreads.
The fact that so many people read it now, despite the fact that it was written nearly 90 years ago, attests to its evergreen relevance.
Networking tips like “be a good listener” or “let other people have the spotlight” are just two examples that can be found in the book.
Nonetheless, the book contains several pieces of advice that are so simplistic that modern readers may find them out of touch.
Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success by Adam Grant
Grant begins this book by drawing a line between three categories of people at work:
Takers (those who desire to take more than to offer)
Givers (those who contribute with little expectation of getting paid back)
Matchers (those who find a balance between giving and taking)
With that differentiation in place, Grant goes on to expound on the benefits and drawbacks of each type of networker, backed up by a large number of case studies drawn from both popular culture and his own life.
Then, regardless of our networking style, he gives us some guidance that could help us succeed.
Several high-profile CEOs, including those at Google, McKinsey, and NASA, have all endorsed this book.
How To Be a Power Connector: The 5+50+100 Rule for Turning Your Business Network Into Profits by Judy Robinett
This Robinett book isn’t as well-known as the others, but it’s more useful and current.
It gives us a comprehensive manual packed with advice on how to make the most of social media and other networking opportunities to expand our professional sphere and make connections with influential people.
Throughout the course of the book, Robinett makes every effort to be understood by outlining her guiding ideas and using pithy expressions.
For example, she refers to a strategy for maintaining our current relationships as “5+50+100,” which entails contacting your top 5 key contacts every day, your top 50 key contacts every week, and your top 100 key contacts every month. This is obviously a very astute approach to developing a self-help book.
Self-help books have a bad rep for being full of platitudes and generalizations, but How to Be a Power Connector challenges that assumption with its precise and actionable advice.
Crush It! Why Now Is The Time to Cash In on Your Passion by Gary Vaynerchuk
Gary Vaynerchuck is a walking example of how effective professional networking can be.
He has a solid reputation as a brilliant entrepreneur in the community.
His YouTube account has over a million subscribers, making him a major player in the video-sharing platform.
Given this, we can deduce that his self-help book is more than just theoretical.
Numerous people have been motivated by the author’s well-written networking book.
Vaynerchuck revitalized the stale conversation about professional networking by highlighting the upsides of computer networking.
In this book, he details how he used personal branding to take the family business from a regional player to a national powerhouse.
Since it’s based on a true story, aspiring business owners would do well to study it.
Stand Out Networking by Dorie Clark
How can one “stand out” in a business networking setting?
A genuine and caring individual is more than just a valuable ally in today’s society, full of fakes, letdowns, and dividers.
Whether it’s a phone call, a social media message, or a face-to-face encounter, it always stands out when someone’s warmth and genuineness shine through in their interactions with you.
Moreover, Dorie suggests precisely such a method of establishing and expanding professional connections.
When done right, networking is a way to get to your goal, which is to help other people and get rewarded for the work you do.
When people see others being helpful and nice, they want to help them too.
This isn’t just a marketing slogan; it’s an invitation to excel.
Throughout the book, Dorie tells interesting stories and gives useful tips on how to systematically make new friends.
Her methods can be used as a springboard for both your career and personal development.
Related Reading: Best Books On Financial Literacy – Read Them Here.
Self-Promotion for Introverts by Nancy Ancowitz
Introverts who have had trouble finding their voice in professional settings will find immediate solace in Nancy’s warm, compassionate tone.
She talks about how to turn off self-criticism and tune in to self-love, which is a crucial but often-overlooked part of networking successfully.
Journaling prompts, and reflection questions let you hone in on your own strengths while Nancy explains how to overcome your weaknesses.
In doing so, you’ll be able to better appreciate yourself and your unique contributions to the world.
You’ll earn the belief and confidence to go for your dreams with pride.
Networking Like a Pro: Turning Contacts into Connections by Ivan Misner & Brian Hilliard
Would you believe that the man who started the largest business referral network in the world, Business Network International, is actually an introvert?
BNI (established by Dr. Ivan Misner) is a successful networking group that takes a slower, more casual approach than the typical speed-based groups.
BNI was founded on the idea that quality is more important than quantity.
The organization’s stated goal of helping its members “create long-term, deeper relationships” reflects this more careful approach.
You’ll find these approaches uplifting, invigorating, and just plain logical because they prioritize the long-term development of meaningful connections over the short-term pursuit of ‘quick wins’ or ‘make a sale’ at every networking event.
You will finish this book with a clear plan for going from zero connections to expert-level networking skills.
The Introvert Entrepreneur by Beth Beulow
Being an introvert and an entrepreneur is a rare combination in today’s society.
In general, being outgoing and having a “safe” 9-to-5 are widely prized.
Beth gives you the ideal structure to develop an understanding of your personality type and the skills to present and network as your most genuine and assured self.
In the typical introvert manner, at the end of each chapter, Beth prompts you to consider what you’ve learned and how you could apply it in the future.
For folks who have chosen the path of the entrepreneur, knowledge alone is not enough.
But with Beth by your side, you may rest assured that the journey ahead will be both less hazardous and more fun.
The No A**hole Rule by Robert I. Sutton
This book claims that negative encounters have a considerably greater impact on one’s mood than favorable ones.
Keeping that highly productive a**hole around could have unintended consequences that aren’t reflected in the numbers but have an impact on those around them.
There are a number of books that discuss how to deal with degrading and disrespectful coworkers by showing enthusiasm and working harder with passion.
According to the author of this book, this is not the most direct approach to preventing rude behavior at work.
Developing apathy and emotional distance from a situation may be the greatest way to make it through it and perhaps come out on top.
Ultimately, the accumulation of many minor successes may determine the outcome of this workspace battle.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
The focus of this book is a technique for improving one’s own and other people’s interpersonal effectiveness.
“Private successes precede public victories,” as Covey puts it.
He uses the adage, “Commitments to oneself must be kept before commitments to others.”
Self-control is the focus of Habits 1, 2, and 3.
They help a person make the transition from being totally reliant on others to be self-sufficient.
The sixth, seventh, and eighth habits all have to do with working together well and communicating with one another.
The Charisma Myth by Olivia Fox Cabane
The ability to enter a room and immediately command everyone’s attention is a skill that we all wish we possess.
Having that trait as a default would make your life and work so much simpler.
Everyone would be clamoring to be in your presence, listening intently to your every word and falling over themselves to comply with your every demand.
Olivia Fox Cabane presents a compelling case in her book that anyone can develop charisma because it arises from a set of habits and ways of thinking that can be taught.
You can avoid becoming one of the moths and become the light bulb yourself if you devour this book and put its advice into practice.
The Art of Nonconformity by Chris Guillebeau
The Art of Nonconformity, based on Chris Guillebeau’s acclaimed online manifesto “A Brief Guide to World Domination,” challenges conventional wisdom about personal and career success and gives you the means to make a difference.
Innovative self-employment, radical goal-setting, countercultural travel, and viewing life as a never-ending adventure are all paths to a more independent lifestyle.
You may create your own strategy for dominance and, at the same time, make the world a better place by taking inspiration and cues from Chris’s personal stories and the stories of others who have chosen unorthodox careers.
Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
What you learn in school is not the key to success.
The most important factor is not a high IQ, a business degree, or even extensive experience.
The capacity to understand and manage one’s own emotions is the single most crucial aspect of professional success and progress.
Daniel Goleman defines emotional intelligence as “a collection of talents that anyone can acquire.”
His book provides an overview of their significance before detailing how they can be developed.
Readers will also learn that emotional intelligence is teachable.
Goleman examines five crucial skill sets and provides realistic examples of how they play a role in deciding who gets employed and who gets dismissed at the world’s most prestigious organizations.
No manager or CEO should skip the chapters where he lays out standards for training in the “emotionally intelligent organization.”
Finding Your Element by Ken Robinson
A new concept of personal fulfillment, which Ken Robinson conveyed to his readers, has sparked a literary revolution.
When folks are in their Element, they are able to perform at their peak potential and enjoy the fullest expression of their individuality.
Now, in his latest book, Robinson provides a definitive answer to the age-old question: how do I find my Element?
The exercises Robinson provides are full of the trademark dry humor that has come to define his work.
Along the way, he shares the experiences of many “regular” people who have found their Element while facing difficult challenges.
And he delves deep into the underlying ideas and crucial questions that will lead you to your own unique strengths.
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
This one is a timeless classic in self-help literature. Napoleon Hill compiled his findings from interviews with historical and contemporary high achievers to develop his “13 Principles for Success.”
This book will guide you in the proper direction and influence your thinking so that you can achieve financial success and become “rich.”
The reader’s sense of self-worth will soar, and they’ll also learn the fundamentals of accumulating wealth in all aspects of life.
Inspiring you to be your greatest self, Think And Grow Rich opens your mind to possibilities in life that were previously unimaginable.
It’s well worth the effort, even if it takes some time to get there.
Related Reading: How To Get Rich – Get To Know Here.
The Start-up of You by Reid Hoffman & Ben Casnocha
If you’re looking to be inspired and motivated to take command of your professional life, The Start-Up of You is a must-read.
The authors weave together insightful historical references and detailed accounts from their own lives to provide a guide for making significant changes in one’s professional life.
According to authors Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha, the traditional concept of work is on the verge of extinction.
The authors then make it clear that to succeed, you must take pride in your identity as a brand, interact with others ‘around’ you in meaningful ways, and always keep an eye on the possibilities.
This is an encouraging rallying cry for folks to get their act together, put in the work, and take charge of their professional destinies.
Don’t hesitate to recommend this book to a friend or family member who needs this push.
Mastery by Robert Greene
Mastery is a book of examination.
Robert Greene uses well-chosen examples to demonstrate his arguments.
The reader’s interest will be held since these narratives are so intriguing.
There are a lot of different stories in the book, and that could be confusing to certain readers.
So as to make things simple and clear, the author has, on occasion, rehashed some of the introductory material.
The author has chosen both historical and modern individuals, including Leonardo da Vinci, Temple Grandin, Paul Graham, etc.
This book distills those lessons down to their essence, and they’re invaluable.
Why We Make Mistakes by Joseph T. Hallinan
Analyzing examples of wrong thinking is a great way to learn from its errors and improve your own thinking skills.
One of the most organized and entertaining books on this subject is Joseph Hallinan’s Why We Make Mistakes.
In each section, the author reveals a specific fallacy that we humans tend to make without even realizing it.
All of them share the common denominator that humans rely heavily on quick but often flawed mental shortcuts.
It’s a fascinating read about a topic that’s important for anyone who wants to think more logically.
As the author points out, improvement is impossible without first being aware of one’s own shortcomings and the directions in which to look for them.
So Good They Can’t Ignore You by Cal Newport
Take the time now to read this book before you start working for someone else.
It makes no difference if you are at the beginning, middle, or end of your professional life.
What you require to make the most informed decisions as you chart out your professional future is laid out in this book.
You’ll find a detailed plan in this book about how to get fulfilling employment.
Cal offers detailed instructions about what should be done at each stage of the (professional) journey.
You’ll get straightforward examinations to determine whether or not the stage has been successfully completed.
Cal also explains how he has used the principles from the book in his own professional development.
The Trust Edge by David Horsager
The book goes beyond the realm of business.
This is a fantastic book for people in leadership roles.
Truth and reliability have become relative concepts in today’s climate.
Dave’s beliefs bring us back to earth by showing us that honesty has just two colors.
We have either a high or low level of trust in other individuals, businesses, and institutions.
Dave offers concrete strategies for mending, reconstructing, expanding, and establishing trust.
While it may be found in the business department, this is a book for every aspect of your life.
Everything I know by Paul Jarvis
When it comes to exploring unfamiliar territory, Everything I Know is your no-rules guide.
This is a swift kick to the creative rear end, devoid of new-age tropes.
Paul Jarvis is the brains and creativity behind some of the most prominent names in business, including Danielle LaPorte, Marie Forleo, Yahoo, The High Line, and Mercedes-Benz.
As a national industry leader, he knows a thing or two about striking out on one’s own.
Paul offers a universal action plan that can be modified to match any situation.
An Introvert’s Guide to World Domination by Nick Shelton
The term “networking” is commonly used to imply an exclusive focus on business or on business-related events.
However, genuine networking can take place everywhere and at any time.
Nick shows us how to make the most of every interaction by turning it into a networking opportunity.
He does so with a youthful outlook and infectious energy that inspires us to show up, be ourselves, connect with others, and even enjoy ourselves.
Nick’s real-world techniques are exciting and fascinating the whole way through since they are grounded in human experiences and novel networking circumstances.
Related Reading: Top Traits Of An Entrepreneur – Get The Insights Here.
Final Thoughts
In the past, networking could have been seen as a necessary evil.
However, with these resources at your disposal, you can now forge relationships that matter wherever you go.
Putting your networking talents to the test is a great way to boost your self-esteem and expand your circle of friends.
It will also likely take your business to the next level.
The post 22 Helpful Books on How to Network & Be A Pro At It appeared first on BrooksConkle.com.
