Current Reads: "never eat alone" by Keith Ferrazzi

'never eat alone' by Keith Ferrazzi

Basic Book Information: 298 pages, 31 chapters

This has been one of my favorite reads over the past few months - second only to Entreleadership by Dave Ramsey.  I picked it up a month ago and haven't been able to put it down.  The reading has gone very slowly simply because my time has been very limited lately, but nonetheless I have enjoyed this book immensely.

I will likely end up purchasing this book and adding it to my library for future reference.  Ferrazzi is a spirited writer and it is easy to tell that he truly believes what he has written.

Principles to Live By:

1.) Networking is not about what you get its about what you give.  The most successful networkers are those who are seeking to assist others to fulfill their needs and solve their problems.

2.) When the time for action has come the time for preparation has passed.  You must start building your network now so that it will be there when you need it.  Your network starts with your family and friends and grows exponentially from there.

3.) Give the person in front of you your full attention.  Your level importance in their eyes will rise and fall equal to the level of sincerity and respect with which you treat people.  So be sincere and don't be afraid to be personable and personal.

4.) Never eat alone.  Not only is important to not eat alone, but it is beneficial to be a connector.  Don't segment your network.  Look for opportunities to make beneficial introductions across your network.

5.) Build your brand and relentlessly broadcast it.  So what is your brand?  What value do you add, what do you want to be known for, what makes you unique?  Consider those things and pursue them relentlessly.

Goals after reading this book:

1.) Identify 10 people in the field of Economic Development that I would like to learn from.  Read about these individuals career paths, look for opportunities to meet them and be aware of opportunities to assist them.

2.) Identify 5 business customers and get to know them better, understand their needs and goals and find a way to assist the to achieve those goals.

3.) Share insights gained from this book with 5 aspiring entrepreneurs over the next 30 days.