Networking Is More Than Doing Lunch

Louise Karch is a career consultant with Carswell Partners in London, Ontario.

Larry Easto has written a comprehensive and down-to-earth networking
book for the home-based business owner in Canada. The thread that ties
all of the chapters together is the value of using and developing
networking contacts to advise you on each step of building your
business. Topics include startup, business planning, market research,
business development, expanding your services and responding to change,
and succession planning.

The book’s layout is visually pleasing, and the language is
accessible. Each chapter contains a topic explanation,
checklists/assessments, real-life descriptions, “dos and don’ts”
guidelines, insider’s tips, and chapter recaps. The “Quick Check
Lists” include such instruments as an entrepreneurial quiz and a tool
for examining how to expand one’s market share. The “Real Life”
segments follow Martha’s Kitchen as she builds and consults with her
network during her first year of business. This case study engages the
reader with real applications of the chapter’s principles. “Dos and
Don’ts” guidelines are just what they sound like. They will be too
basic for some but good reminders for others. The “Insider’s Tips”
cover such ideas as the A to Z Guide of how to keep in touch with your
network, and using contacts to expand your business or improve your
marketing efforts.

Easto’s book, which would make an excellent addition to a library or
small-business centre, is especially suitable for the new business
owner.