Never Eat Alone

I've been reading Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi with Tahl Raz and it is so chock full of wisdom - not only in a business / networking setting (as the book intended to be) but for those who need a kickstart in interpersonal relationships.

Example:

Be Sincere
Whether you spend five seconds or five hours with a new contact or acquaintance, make the time count. In Los Angeles, where I live, eye darters are a party staple. They're constantly looking to and fro in an attempt to ferret out the most important person in the room. Frankly, it's a disgusting habit, and one that's sure to put off those around you.

The surest way to become special in others' eyes is to make them feel special. The correlate, of course, is equally true: Make people feel insignificant and your significance to them shall certainly diminish.

Other nuggets and principles from Keith and Tahl include -

Look for mentors: Link up with people who can help guide your career and can introduce you to the people you need to know. Then become a mentor yourself.

I am passionate about mentoring - many of us are way too busy to invest in others and tap in the wisdom that is available from the older generation. I've gained more wisdom from mentors in my life than any college course could offer.

Be interesting: Develop the style, knowledge, and expertise that will draw others to you.
Build it before you need it: Create lists of people you know- and those you want to know - and maintain ongoing contacts with them throughout your life and career - not just when you need a favor.

Harvey McKay wrote a whole book on this matter - Dig Your Well Before You Are Thirsty. The title says it all.

Never eat alone: Avoid the fate of - invisibility- use potential social settings to constantly reach out to colleagues and future contacts.

I think that a great way to make the new guy at work feel welcome to to befriend the person and take him to lunch - there is nothing worse that the first day on the job and eating alone. I'm surprised that a lot of managers are blind to this simple act of professional courtesy.

Read more excerpts here from 800-CEO-READ Excerpts

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