Networking is – and will always – be a vital cog in the personal success of any career-oriented individual.
But in an age where social media has gained mainstream adoption, social media has inevitably allowed networks to sprout – virtually – anywhere in the world.
Gordon S. Curtis, author of Well Connected: An Unconventional Approach to Building Genuine, Effective Business Relationships, has released his latest book at the most opportune moment, as social media is slowly gaining momentum over the conventional one to one approach.
Curtis emphasizes that with these social networks, it becomes increasingly difficult to fine-tune messages for specific audiences, and outlines the “Right Person-Right Approach” method to achieve business and career objectives. This is achieved by identifying “social enablers” willing to assist you with your career objectives.
This approach identifies potential networks, with each person in the network having different, but important roles in increasing the value of the network. The key is to identify which approach is most appropriate, and at the right time.
Each subsequent chapter thoroughly guides readers through each step of the process – straight from planning your strategy, understanding key objectives, strategizing, identifying and understanding the need for different approaches for different opportunities, qualifying the most appropriate individuals and parties that will benefit from networking, all culminating in a comparative situational narrative between three fictitious individuals using various aspects of the “Right Person-Right Approach” method.
Additionally, Curtis clearly emphasizes the importance of genuine reciprocity, as a key idea in ensuring that any potential networks become fruitful. Ironically, what was probably one of the most conventional approaches to networking – the “I scratch your back, you scratch mine” mentality – had become irreverent. It is almost humourous that this approach has been deemed unconventional, considering the common sense underlying genuine relationship building by means of a reciprocal relationship.
Nonetheless, this book is an invaluable reminder that networking is just as much an art form as it is a step-by-step process. Curtis pointedly outlines a foolproof networking process, and prepares individuals looking to network efficiently, up to the point when they finally approach and network with the ever important “social enablers”.
Networking and the techniques behind it tend to become an oversight for many individuals. This book is very useful in the types of questions one should ask themselves to maximize their networking potential. Thus enabling individuals to realize meaningful networks, ones that benefit not only one’s own network, but as a means to reach a larger, more bountiful network, thanks to the “Right Person-Right Approach” method.
Well Connected: An Unconventional Approach to Building Genuine, Effective Business Relationships (Wiley Canada) written by Gordon S. Curtis is available now at all major book retailers. (26.95 U.S./31.95CAN)
- Michael Chu
