The thought of networking is something that strikes fear into many people and drives others to tears of boredom, but in today’s connected world, networking, both online and offline, can be the key to achieving business goals. Effective networking means establishing a reputation for your expertise that sets you apart from competitors, but how can you develop the skills to network effectively?

Help is at hand from a new book, The Complete Guide to Professional Networking, which outlines strategies, practical techniques and exclusive tips from some of the world’s most successful networkers to achieve powerful results.

The author, Simon Phillips, is a trainer and mentor specialising in teaching other people how to network. He has shared his expertise with individuals at all stages of their career, from university students and small business owners to major corporate clients like Accenture, O2, easyjet and Lloyds TSB. In the book, Simon also taps into his own expansive network of connections to provide practical advice revealed in exclusive interviews with best-selling authors, entrepreneurs, CEOs and Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn experts.

The Complete Guide to Professional Networking is presented in an engaging style that makes it accessible and helpful to all readers, whether they are networking novices or experienced professionals looking to utilise their networks more effectively. The book features cartoons by professional illustrator Simon Ellinas, which add an entertaining element to this “go-to” guide.

Simon Phillips is an experienced and engaging speaker and is available for interview, comment or by-lined articles on a range of networking topics, such as:

• How to work the room: 5 easy steps
• How to build your reputation online
• How big should your network be?
• How to develop your own networking style
• How to network effectively in the workplace
• The Networking Scorecard: How to tell if your networking is working

The Complete Guide to Professional Networking: The secrets of online and offline success by Simon Phillips is due to be published by Kogan Page in August, priced £19.99.