Networking for Job Search and Career Success

This is a fantastic, well-written book that outlines the fundamentals of networking and job search communications. It's like a "What Color Is Your Parachute?" for networking, with a little less gloss. She should release an updated second edition with chapters on social media.

Like worried soldiers making spiritual deals on the battlefield, many people currently in transition are realizing they should have paid more attention to networking and are now furiously working to correct that deficit, believing the press that this is the best way to a happy landing. This book is for them, both now and once they are again employed. Dr. Tullier doesn't spend much time on the why of networking, which is fine, since we have all seen the light. Her book is the penultimate source on the how of networking, truly everything you need to know to integrate effective networking into your life, and many useful tools and examples to guide you. Two chapters in particular make this book worth owning: Ch. 10: Dealing with Difficult People and Surviving Sticky Situations (she tells it like it is) and Ch. 11: Networking for Introverts: 25 Painless Tips (the author is a self-avowed introvert, so she speaks from the heart). That all said, this book, the 2nd edition released in 2004, screams for an update. For one, the multitude of internet links suggested in the various appendices could be refreshed by adding the many new useful and relevant sites which have emerged while checking the validity of those published five years ago. But more important is the huge revolution in social networking that has occurred since 2004, and the profound effect this development has had on networking. LinkedIn, for example, is barely mentioned in the book. But the basic networking principles offered are still sound, and should become part of every professional's permanent skill set.

I am a Career Coach and as a matter of practice I ask all my clients to read Michelle Tullier's book on networking. This is the Bible for all those in transition. Regardless of the individual's background, position that s/he has held or whatever they are seeking in the future this book guides the reader through all the important elements that are required for successful networking. I have used this book extensively while I was in transition and "fell in love with it" since I found it so thorough, resourceful and helpful. The value that one gets out of this book is by far exceeding its minimal cost. Some of my clients purchased this book as used (in excellent condition) for less than the shipping cost. I highly recommend it and applaud Michelle for doing such a good job with it.

If you are looking to purchase just one book on networking, look no further. This book not only has answers to standard networking questions, but also addresses topics that I have not come across in other networking books, such as "networking for introverts." (Yes, there is hope for us yet!) Especially useful are the appendices which list, by industry, ideas for possible networking contacts and and websites. Kudos to Dr. Tullier for her on-the-mark advice and insight.