Build Your Dream Network

October 31, 2016
Networking specialist Hoey shares her expertise in an easy-to-use guide to the art of networking in the “new economy.” Kelly’s important guidance begins by laying out the steps necessary to forge meaningful relationships and then moves towards encouraging readers to keep this process alive. The heart of Hoey’s methodology consists of a three-step process: determine your goal, determine who can help you, and form a plan for connecting with these people. She attests that continuing to build and expand her network is not something she enjoys doing, but rather something she feels she must do. A smartly structured chapter entitled “A Networked Career” includes a fabulous list of the many ways one can benefit from effective networking, such as securing employment or acquiring investment funding. Most notable are the interesting Q&A sessions interspersed throughout, wherein networking gurus relate inspiring stories, benefits reaped from networking, and their biggest mistakes. Kelly marvelously succeeds in instilling in her readers the attitude that whether one is attempting to secure a job, find a publisher, or finance a new business venture, tapping into the right network is the answer. Agent: Brandi Bowles, Foundry Literary + Media.

January 1, 2017

Gone are the days of filing business cards away in a Rolodex. With today's average job tenure lasting less than five years, people are relying on their networks for new job leads more than ever. But how do you build your network in the digital age? Columnist and investor Hoey guides readers through the answer. Networking isn't confined to the workplace (instead, think weddings or subway cars). With the help of the Internet, it also doesn't need to start face to face. Hoey provides examples of digital networking, suggesting ways to connect through various platforms, nurturing those relationships, and taking them offline. Her advice also includes being selective with networking and committee obligations and how to know when to pass on an opportunity. Interspersed with the easy-to-grasp advice are peer interviews that add depth to the guidance, many times proving that a quick conversation about a simple idea can launch a career or life-changing decision when the right people are around. VERDICT A smart, modern guide to networking etiquette for readers at any stage in their careers.--Jennifer Clifton, Indiana State Lib., Indianapolis

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