Why the emphasis on networking? In case you aren't already convinced through your own experiences or that of other people you know, the following statistics underscore the importance of effective networking:

1. A referral generates 80% more results than a cold call;
2. Approximately 70% of all jobs are found through  networking; and
3. Most people you meet have at least 250 contacts.

And while these facts are reason enough to focus on improving one's networking skills, there are other benefits of networking. It can be very rewarding, not only in terms of business outcomes, saved time, and valuable information, but also in personal satisfaction because it involves helping others reach their goals.

Read on to learn how to network for personal productivity.

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