The Reading List, Part II

As we all know, social media is the next best thing since sliced bread, especially for marketing your business. However, simply joining one of these networks, attending networking events, collecting business cards and passing out yours are not going to magically build your business. You have to build relationships. The golden rule of thumb: "touch someone at least seven times" before it leads to any business.

Among many of the best groups in the DMV area, of which I am proud member and ambassador to, is The Perfect Networker. Ken Rochon, the founder of the group and the author of Becoming The Perfect Networker, is one person whom I am absolutely delighted to consider an amazing "Ken-nection," colleague and friend. His book will guide you on how to step up your game, make powerful connections, be a part of a community and "Become The Perfect Networker!"

"Networking is not just going to events. It is not about passing cards. And it is not about you!" -Ken Rochon, Networking Vs Networking – Chapter VI

Having said that, Part II will focus on just a few books about networking, many of which are also recommended in Ken Rochon’s book. However, my first recommendation is of course:

1. Becoming The Perfect Networker ...Succeeding One Connection @ A Time by Ken Rochon. To purchase the book, visit the Perfect Networker Storefront at Amazon.com

2. The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea by Bob Burg and John David Mann

3. The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom, A Toltec Wisdom Book by Don Michael Ruiz

4. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff …and it’s all small stuff by Richard Carlson

5. The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber

6. The Power of One: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle

7. The Traveler’s Gift: Seven Decisions that Determine Personal Success by Andy Andrews

8. Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty by Harvey McKay

9. Raving Fans: A Revolutionary Approach To Customer Service by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles

10. Little Black Book of Connections: 6.5 Assets for Networking Your Way to Rich Relationships by Jeffrey Gitomer

11. The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference by Malcolm Gladwell

12. The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari: A Fable About Fulfilling Your Dreams and Reaching Your Destiny by Robin Sharma

If you like this post, check out The Reading List, Part I

The Reading List, Part I

11 books I recommend everyone should include in their library or try to read!

1. She Wins, You Win: The Most Important Rule Every Businesswoman Needs to Know by Gail Evans

2. Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman: What Men Know About Success that Women Need to Learn by Gail Evans

Gail shares pointers on how to be successful in a male dominated corporate environment -- great book!

3. Cracking Creativity :The Secret of Creative Genius by Michael Michalko

4. Thinkertoys: A Handbook of Creative Thinking Techniques, 2nd Ed by Michael Michalko

Michael convinced me that Creative thinking can be learned! Unleash your creative thinking!

5. The Pharaohs' Code: Creating a Joyful Life and Lasting Legacy by Mohamed Tohami

Tohami shows you the steps to take charge of your life and be successful: reconsider the choices we make and reshaping our destiny.

6. Ten Things (I wish I'd Known – Before I Went Out into the Real World) by Maria Shriver

How many times have we heard from those we try to guide: "Let me learn from my own mistakes"? Maria's book is a great and easy read for all, loaded with stories and advice from her personal experience to guide us as to not only what is important in life but also how to go about life without making the same mistakes as our predecessors.

7. The Color of Water: A Black Man's Tribute to his White Mother by James McBride

McBride's book sums up that although race, religion, and identity play a major role in shaping our lives, it should not be used as an excuse not to excel. Seek resources and seize the opportunity to break down barriers and try to achieve a happy and successful life.

8. A Child called "It": One Child's Courage to Survive by Dave Pelzer*

9. The Lost Boy by Dave Pelzer* (sequel to above book)

10. A Man Named Dave by Dave Pelzer* (conclusion to the above two)

8, 9, and 10: No matter what your situation and/or circumstances, do not use it as a handicap or make excuses. Given the opportunity, despite all odds, all trials and tribulations you can alter your destiny and come out winning.

11. Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Seth Goodin

If you have any books you would like to recommend and share with the community, please leave a comment and I will post it as a follow up to this article. Stay tuned for my next list, Part II!

*Caution; very emotional.