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The Anti-Networking Guide
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The Anti-Networking Guide

Sahil Bloom
Sahil Bloom, 2024
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7

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If the mere thought of networking with a room of strangers is enough to make you feel nauseated, blogger, entrepreneur and investor Sahil Bloom, a self-professed socially anxious introvert, has put together a brief, useful “anti-networking” guide to making connections. Happily, the realm of networking has evolved, and transactional schmoozing has given way to relationship building. If you are moving to a new area, starting a new job, or attending a networking event — or if you just want to make friends — Bloom’s guide will give you the confidence you need to connect with new people. 

Summary

Networking has evolved. It’s now more concerned with relationship building than schmoozing.

A Harvard study discovered that “relationship satisfaction” at age 50 is the factor that most accurately predicts a person’s physical health at age 80. Thus, enjoying a long, healthful life hinges on your ability to build relationships. But how can you instigate meaningful relationships? “Networking” has become a dirty word associated with amalgamating masses of shallow, transactional connections. Instead, take the “anti-networking” path to building authentic relationships. Anti-networking has four core principles: “find value-aligned rooms, ask engaging questions, become a level 2-3 listener, and use creative follow-ups.”

To build meaningful relationships, seek out places where you will rub shoulders with like-minded people.

To meet like-minded folks, visit places where you are most likely to encounter people who share your interests and values.

For example, if your canine...

About the Author

Investor, entrepreneur and blogger Sahil Bloom is the writer of The Curiosity Chronicle newsletter. 

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