Mastering the Art of Effective Networking

In today’s fast-moving world—where who you know can be just as crucial as what you know—mastering the art of networking isn’t just an advantage, it’s essential. But forget the awkward small talk and the pile of forgotten business cards. This isn’t that kind of guide.
“Successful networking is about constant activity and Beyond the Comfort Zone offers common sense ideas that will help you build your social capital and become a more active networker. With nine years of experience in BNI, Tony Allwood offers wise, fresh insights and simple, easy-to— implement strategies that will empower you to master the art of networking and significantly increase your referrals whether you are brand new to networking or have been practicing it for years.”
Dr Ivan R. Misner
NY Times Bestselling author
Founder of BNI and Referral Institute

Instead, this book offers a practical, honest, and refreshingly modern approach to networking—one that focuses on building genuine relationships, not ticking boxes. Whether you're a seasoned networker or just getting started, you'll find strategies here to help you stand out, build trust, and unlock meaningful opportunities.

“Networking isn’t about collecting contacts. It’s about planting relationships.”

You’ll learn how to:

Structure impactful one-on-one meetings

Deliver introductions that make people remember you

Make networking requests that are clear, specific, and easy to action

But this guide goes beyond techniques. It explores the mindset that separates successful networkers from the forgettable. You'll discover the quiet power of:

Giving without expectation

Actively engaging in your networking group

Using downtime productively and creatively

“People do business with those they know, like, and trust. This book shows you how to become all three.”

Above all, this book champions a simple truth:

Networking isn’t about what you get—it’s about what you give.

The more value you bring to others, the more naturally opportunities come your way. That mindset doesn’t just build a network; it builds a reputation.
“In ‘Beyond the Comfort Zone’, Tony Allwood lays out simple, but effective ways on becoming a better, more active networker. The books common sense approach means that you can start using its ideas today, allowing you to find more referrals, and make yourself easy to refer. Tony has been an active member of BNI for over nine years in both the UK and New Zealand, and has put this experience down on paper to help other members become more successful.”
Graham Southwell
National Director
BNI New Zealand

So if you’re ready to move beyond surface-level connections, to refine your approach, and to build a network that genuinely works—for you and because of you—then let’s begin.