Improve Your Networking Game

I was once really bad with people.

I mean, REALLY bad. I had a few friends, but they were mostly as bad with people as I was. We weren’t even good with each other. We played video games to avoid dealing with our co-discomfort.

And it’s not just me! It is HARD to meet people. You’ve got a few mates from work or school, sure, but those are freebies. That’s forced interaction; hand-holding. How do you actually meet people out in the wild?!

I couldn’t figure this out either. Well actually, I did, but it took a while. And then I wrote an ebook about it. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

The point I wanted to get around to is this: these days my businesses are almost entirely based on the strength of my network.

I can walk into a room and be confident that by the time I leave, I’ll know most of the people there and will have given them a reason to remember (and want to stay in touch with) me. I understand the intersocial dynamics of different kinds of get-togethers and the flow of power in a social setting.

This was tricky stuff to learn! And I read a lot!

The thing is, most books on networking focus on things that are – in my opinion – a bit arbitrary and unnecessary. Most of what they preach is also a bit humdrum and boring…do you REALLY want to attend another conference? Infrared-exchange your contact information with a stranger with a Blackberry and a name tag? Shake hands, CRM names, practice elevator speeches, pretend to be interested?

Yeesh, me neither. What’s unfortunate is that this dry, frail kind of relationship-building process is what has come to represent networking in the business sphere, and it’s not just yawn-inducing, it’s also ineffective.

In this ebook, I propose a new kind of game, one that involves creating much stronger bonds, better social habits, a more fulfilling approach to life and a more valuable network. I’ll give you tips, tricks, philosophies and stories that will help you become a better networker.

Not only that, but I’ve convinced 26 of the people who’s networking skills I respect the most (from all different walks of life, industries and lifestyles) to share their own experiences and advice.

I propose that we all start Networking Awesomely, so join me for a drink and I’ll tell you about it!

No, wait, I’m selling an ebook here. The drink will have to wait.

Purchase Networking Awesomely – an ebook with over 250 pages and the cajones to get the job done – for the teensy-weensy price of $20 by clicking the ‘Buy Now’ button below.

Not convinced? No worries! Here are some reviews!

“Colin takes a look at effective networking techniques that are equal parts entertaining and practical. He not only shows how to network awesomely but points out many of the common pitfalls that people make by “networking douchebaggedly” [and I thought all the variations of douchebag had been uses up]. Colin employs the help of countless other bloggers to weigh in with their thoughts on networking & the result is something nothing short of remarkable. Well done Colin!” – Joel Runyon | Blog Of Impossible Things

“Honestly? Networking Awesomely defied my expectations. I went in expecting a comprehensive manual on the intricacies of business networking, but came out feeling like I’d just read an enthusiastic how-to guide on life. Looking beyond the networking terminology, what you’ve crafted here reads like a pretty slick primer on just being awesome – being the kind of person who can captive a room and establish lasting friendships everywhere he goes. Those are the kind of goals most people shoot for, and certainly something I myself aspire to, so it’s delightful to see the means and the method laid out so easily on the page. Hell, you make it all sound so easy. No coincidence, then, that easy might be the best word for it.

Boiled down, the book is just easy – easy to read, easy to digest, and easy to enjoy, the combination of which makes for an inspiring piece of work. I want to go out and meet people. I want to cultivate this vast network of friends from all over the world, and maybe this is the first time I realized that goal is absolutely within my grasp.” – Matt Madeiro

“Networking Awesomely is a guide to networking in the new world. It encompasses old school networking strategies, new school technology and a touch of awesomeness. A book perfect for both newcomers and veterans alike Colin philosophises, deconstructs and simplifies networking from every angle. A strong message to rethink the boundaries between your lifestyle, friends, business colleagues and even sexual partners – this is a book not just on networking but on life. For the more experienced you will receive at the very least a number of handy tips to network in common (and some uncommon) situations plus a refresher on many of the important life lessons once learned.Colin incorporates lifestyle design, social dynamics, the concept of value, frames of reference and more to help build confidence, attractiveness and social skills – turning you into a natural networking machine. But don’t let the big words scare you as Networking Awesomely simplifies the lot making it an easy read for all. With stories, humour and a cheeky attitude it will be tough to put this down once you start. The book won’t leave you dreaming about what could be either. Colin delivers many “do it now” tips including advice on fashion, social networking shortcuts, email scripts and business card design to get you networking awesomely right away.

Another interesting aspect to the book is the input from other bloggers. Not only is this empirical evidence of Colin’s ability to network but gives extra spice to the material. You will hear from many new world networkers about their approach, thoughts and successes from networking.

We all (should) know networking delivers exceptional value in all areas of life. A small investment to improve this skill is a no-brainer. It only takes one person to change your life. Buy it now!” – Vinay Patankar | Abstract Living

“The thing that strikes me the most about Networking Awesomely is how the title doesn’t even come close to doing this eBook justice; its scope spans far greater than just networking. Networking Awesomely is a powerful collection of human psychological and sociological insights that Colin applies in a practical manner, showing readers how to leverage such truths in a way that will essentially get people places they want to go. And isn’t that what we all want? To reach our goals in the shortest amount of time, and in the best way possible? From this perspective, Colin’s book is actually about something far greater than networking–it’s about getting out there and learning how to become a mover and a shaker in order to proactively take control over your life. From advice to tips to tricks to personal stories from other kings and queens of networking, Colin’s eBook is definitely a must-read for anyone looking to get up out of their seat and make things happen. Hell, I’m jealous I didn’t write the thing.” – Ash Ambirge | The Middle Finger Project

“Whether you have your own business or not, the benefits of Networking Awesomely are clear. By giving a bit more of yourself to the world, you’ll soon find yourself with more opportunities than you ever could’ve imagined. Read Colin’s new book on how to be a real people’s person and start building your network awesomely (and having a blast while you’re at it)!” – Miika Miettinen