Chapter 4 is all about networking. It talks a lot about being a people person. Even if you are not in the customer service industry, you will always work with people. "In fact, the word company is derived from the latin cum and pane, which means "breaking bread together." (pg84)
As a parent I often encourage my kids to surround themselves with friends that are a good influence and that lift them up rather then drag them down. This is true for us as adults too:
"The fastest way to change yourself is to hang out with people who are already the way you want to be." (pg 85)
I appreciated that the authors make note of the team effort. Yes, we work individually and are responsible for our own actions. However, where we are and who we are depends a lot on the people we come in contact with, work with and socialize with. They even point out that in the business world, a team will often only perform at the level of the worst team member!
It is important to have valuable relationships that can help us and we can help them. These need to be sincere connections. When we are trying to just have the most connections people will see the we are not sincere and not desire to connect with us on a personal level. When we keep connections alive our names are the ones people think of when opportunities arise.
The book talks a lot in this chapter about LinkedIn and the importance of networking and making connections. I thought about the connections I have on LinkedIn and the connections that have endorsed me. I feel that I need to make a better effort in endorsing others and keeping in touch.
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