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Originally Posted by Alvin  How's never eat alone? Keith Ferrazi seems a very interesting person. |
(Sorry, this is going to sound like a sales pitch...)
First off, it's not a book about how to use people to get ahead... Many will tell you that it is. I definately don't see it that way. If you want that, go read "How to Win Friends and Influence People."
This book does, however, somewhat echo that book. It tells you how to make friends, and how to gain access to the power players. Basically, the premise of the book is this: The "Good Old Boys Network" is alive and well. "The rich get richer" is absolute fact. "It's not what you Know, it's who you know that matters" is absolute fact. This shows you how to create your own "Good Old Boys Network."
Here's an example of my personal experience... I read the book about three months ago. In my speciffic niche of work, there are basically seven power players that everyone knows about, and everyone worships. Last night, I was having dinner with one of the guys, and his wife. I didn't manage to leave there until about 9:30... and I'm going back again tonight to continue our conversation, and help him with a computer problem. He's one of the coolest guys I've met. His wife is great, his children are great, and I'm looking forward to spending more time with his family and mine. We share wine reviews, business ideas, personal problems, etc.
Second example... There was a guy that I work with that is pretty much like I am/was. ie: a hermit with no friends, no social life, etc. I decided that he was a lot like me, and would be a good guy to get to know. He and his wife now spend about one evening a week at my house for dinner and gaming.
I've read the other book. I think that this one has had much more of an impact on my ability to make friends, and establish MEANINGFUL relationships. Your experience may differ, but that's my take on it.
Note: I just "discovered" Toastmasters through these forums... I think that will be another avenue that I will persue in personal development.
I would subtitle this book: "How to Win Friends, and Establish Meaningful Relationships."