You are unique. You have something very special to offer. So do many other people. But you have a secret weapon: this book. It will teach you how to network—and that’s the one skill that can give you near-perfect equality of opportunity.

80% of America’s job openings are never advertised. Networking can help you get those jobs. Employers need to see you as you really are. Networking lets you show them. Networking gives you contacts to get you in the door and advice from people who’ve been there.

As great networkers know, this isn’t about sucking up or being a phony. It’s about being your best self, creating lifelong connections, and building communities of people who help each other.

One step at a time, this book will help you overcome your doubts and fears, and gain all these powerful benefits. It’s authored by three people who’ve been there—including Dr. Renee Thompson, past Officer of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. They’ve done it. You can, too—and it’s the #1 key to your success!

Real answers to the networking questions  black professionals ask

Real solutions to the networking problems  black professionals face

• Why should I spend time networking when I’m already  so busy?

• How do I network when I don’t know anyone “important”?

• How can I work with the contacts I already have?

• Who should I try to meet?

• How do I network when I don’t have much  work experience yet?

• How do I network with someone I might not like?

• What should I talk about? What shouldn’t I talk about?

• What’s the best way to follow up?

• How do I overcome fears about whether I’m good enough?

• Won’t people just judge me based on the color of my skin?

• How do I ask for help without compromising  my self-respect?

• What can I really get out of social networks like LinkedIn or Facebook?

• How do I develop a personal “brand” that works for me?

Dr. Michael Faulkner is a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran who served from 1964-1970 and rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. He spent 30 years in a variety of leadership and management positions with Dun& Bradstreet, the Direct Marketing Association and entrepreneurial start ups, as well as helping run the family business before moving into the academic world. Today Michael is Professor at the Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University. He is a member of MENSA, a former tow time national champion of Athletic Dueling and an International Rotary Fellowship award winner. He has written or co-authored nine books and two one-act plays, which were both performed in regional theaters.

Foreword