Network Is Not a Verb: The Authentic Way to Build Meaningful Professional Relationships

If you are among the tens of thousands of people who want to move ahead at work yet worry you don’t have the right connections, you are not alone. Are you starting your career but don’t know how to meet people who can help you get that first job or move beyond that entry level position? Are you mid-career and feeling stalled because the people you do know don’t seem to be positioned to assist you? Do you spend countless hours at events or receptions shaking hands and handing out business cards but wonder why nothing positive ever seems to come of it? In “Network is not a Verb,” Ellen Poole explains that not only is “networking” not the answer to these dilemmas, its very value in our culture is a complete myth. Instead, Poole offers a new, core principle for relationship-building success: become someone whom others want to add to their own professional networks. Poole provides ten clear, actionable tips that anyone can use to become a desired connection for others, and teaches readers how to create their own value-based relationships for career enhancement and success. Extrovert or introvert, account manager or accountant – Poole’s guidance will work for you whatever your personality or profession.“Network is not a Verb” will show you new approaches to use in your everyday life to enhance your appeal as a valued member of others’ professional networks. The reader will learn how to develop meaningful new relationships, how to maintain them, and how to avoid common missteps that could unwittingly alienate your new connections. Achieving career success in today’s highly competitive world requires more than strong skills and hard work. “Network” Is Not a Verb is a road map to developing a rewarding network of colleagues and friends who will help and support you throughout your lifetime professional journey.