21 Days to Success Through Networking: The Life and Times of Gnik Rowten

by Ron Sukenick, Ken Williams

Real-world situations, events, and challenges fuel the instructive insights in this relatable guide to networking. The book helps readers meet and prepare for reality by presenting scenarios through the perspective of character Gnik Rowten—“networking” spelled backward—who has made a fresh start in a new city where he has few, if any, friends, prospects, or business contacts. Lessons emerge by following Gnik’s life over a three-week period as he discovers and learns tools, techniques, and strategies for effective business networking. Through Gnik’s adventures and sharing his “aha!” moments, readers learn to extend, deepen, and effectively utilize their own personal and business networks.

Genres: Nonfiction

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gnik Rowten ("Networking" spelled backwards) is starting over in a new city where he has very few connections. Meeting people for the first time and trying to establish meaningful business networks from scratch is a daunting task, and Gnik learns some lessons the hard way. But he listens to a few wise mentors, takes notes, and eventually learns how to build a solid network of friends and business associates. Along the way, Gnik records "Aha" moments, which summarize what he has learned.

The name of the main character (Gnik Rowten) was too gimmicky for me, but the story and concept is great. My favorite principle in the book is "It's all about them." In other words, your conversation should not be all about you and what you need; you should spend most of your time listening to the other person in order to understand THEIR needs. Listening can transform a conversation, and a relationship.

This book is styled a bit like "Five Minute Manager," or "Who Stole My Cheese," in that it uses a story in parable form to teach business lessons in an easy-to-read and easy-to-remember format. A transformative book, not just for business people, but for anyone who wants to improve communication, make friends, and find success in networking.

[Jennifer Burke · Rating 2 out of 5]

A well-intentioned, cute idea to use a story of the guy whose name is Networking spelled backwards via his attempts to start a new life and new business in the big ol’ city, and what we learn from his encounters. But ….Gosh. I found this book to be so hokey! The parable style worked for Who Moved My Cheese, but isn’t as strong or well thought-out here. It comes off as amateurish. Maybe this is a book designed for college or high school students – someone who’s never had a job in the business or ‘corporate world’ or heard of the term ‘networking’ before and needs a really basic primer.

Full review in Dec 2013 issue of AIIP.org's 'Connections'.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Real world, practical examples. Tiny steps that make huge impacts. A Must read!