Stop networking, start connecting: 20 must-know strategies for success 🤝

Keith Ferrazzi’s ultimate guide to networking success in Never Eat Alone

Nov 27, 2024

Daniel’s verdict ✅

Success isn’t just about what you know — it’s about who you know and how you build meaningful connections. Keith Ferrazzi’s Never Eat Alone breaks down the essential principles for networking like a pro, cultivating relationships that fuel your growth, and turning those connections into long-term success. Bottom line: stop “networking” and start connecting.

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These 20 principles will supercharge your networking game and set you up to win in both business and life.

1️⃣ Your network is your net worth

Business is all about people. Without strong relationships, you’re not getting far. Start building your network before you need it, and keep nurturing it like a garden. You’ll need it to thrive in today’s business world.

2️⃣ Generosity always wins

Forget about keeping score on favours. Give freely — whether it’s your time, advice, or connections — without expecting anything back. The universe has a way of rewarding those who give.

3️⃣ Build personal brands, not just companies

You’re your own brand. Make sure your reputation reflects your values and work ethic. Your name should stand for something, even if you switch companies. Like Nike sells a lifestyle, you sell yourself.

4️⃣ Connect, don’t network

Real connections come from genuine interest, not business cards. Build friendships, not just contacts. Whether you’re talking to a CEO or a cleaner, show real curiosity and kindness.

5️⃣ Follow up or fail

Making a connection is just the start. If you don’t follow up, they’ll forget you. Keep relationships alive by staying consistent and thoughtful.

6️⃣ It’s not what you know — it’s who you know (and who knows you)

The best opportunities come from people who know you. Use your connections to unlock doors that hard skills alone can’t.

7️⃣ Be interesting, not impressive

Don’t just list your achievements. Show people why they’d want to know you. Share your passions, stories, and dreams. Memorable conversations build lasting relationships.

8️⃣ Never eat alone

Whenever you can, use meals to connect. Lunch and coffee aren’t just for eating — they’re for deepening relationships in a fun, relaxed way.

9️⃣ Small gestures go a long way

In a world of Zoom calls and emails, a handwritten note or remembering someone’s birthday makes you stand out. It shows you care.

🔟 Audacity is key

You won’t get anything if you don’t ask. Be bold. Reach out to people who seem out of your league. Take risks and send that cold email. Believe you deserve to be in the room.

1️⃣1️⃣ Social bridging is your secret weapon

When you know people from different circles, you become the bridge. Introduce friends who don’t know each other — it multiplies your value and strengthens both relationships.

1️⃣2️⃣ Connect through passion

Find common ground beyond work. Whether it’s fitness, art, or a hobby, relationships are stronger when you connect on a deeper level.

1️⃣3️⃣ Create your own luck

Don’t leave networking to chance. Be where the right people are — attend events, conferences, or online spaces. Make those connections happen.

1️⃣4️⃣ Say yes to everything — until you don’t

In the early days, say yes to every opportunity. But once your network is built, get more selective. Focus your time where you can add the most value.

1️⃣5️⃣ Stay on their radar

Check in with your contacts regularly, even if it’s just a quick text or sharing an article. It keeps the relationship fresh without being overbearing.

1️⃣6️⃣ Mentors matter, but so do mentees

Find a mentor to guide you, but don’t forget to mentor others. Teaching sharpens your skills and expands your network.

1️⃣7️⃣ Lead with empathy

Networking isn’t just about what people can do for you. It’s about understanding their needs, too. When you lead with empathy, you build trust — and trust is everything.

1️⃣8️⃣ Be where the action is

Show up at key events, conferences, and online spaces for your industry. Be visible and get involved. The more you’re seen, the more people get to know you.

1️⃣9️⃣ Forget balance — aim for integration

You can’t balance everything perfectly. Instead, blend work, life, and relationships. True connections don’t care about strict boundaries.

2️⃣0️⃣ Never stop learning

Keep expanding your skills and knowledge. Stay curious, read more, and try new things. The more you grow, the more you can give back to others.

👤 About the author

Keith Ferrazzi is an expert in networking, a successful entrepreneur, and a bestselling author. As the founder and CEO of Ferrazzi Greenlight, he’s known for his groundbreaking work in relationship-building, and has shared his insights in Never Eat Alone and other bestsellers, making him one of today’s top thought leaders in business.