Product Description

A completely updated and revised edition of a bestselling book that has helped tens of thousands of people learn how to network effectively, Success Runs in Our Race is more important than ever in this fluctuating economy. With scores of anecdotes taken from interviews with successful African Americans -- from Keith Clinkscales, founder and former CEO of Vanguarde Media, to Oprah Winfrey -- Fraser shows how to network for information, for influence, and for resources. Readers will learn, among other things, how to cultivate valuable listening skills, which conferences blacks are most likely to attend when looking to build their business network, and how to effectively circulate a résumé.

More than a guide for personal achievement, this is an information-packed bible of networking that also seeks to inspire a social movement and a rebirth of the "Underground Railroad," in which successful African Americans share the lessons of self-determination and empowerment with those still struggling to scale the ladder of success.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #259746 in Books
• Published on: 2004-03
• Released on: 2004-03-30
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 416 pages

From Publishers Weekly
Fraser, founder and CEO of SuccessSource, which publishes directories of African-American professionals, here advises black Americans on how to achieve personal and career success. He recommends pragmatic goals--"increase public awareness of black excellence . . . promote racial pride"--and actions--"bring positive black role models into your community schools"--in combination with his suggestions on networking for information, influence and resources. Fraser's coverage of 10 tips for whites seeking to network with African-Americans and minority firms enhances this guide: go to black events, shun racial jokes and "please, avoid saying, 'Some of my best friends are black.' " The profiles presented of such entrepreneurs as John H. Johnson, head of Johnson Publishing, are inspiring, as is Fraser's recounting of his own rise from poverty.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal
In this book on networking techniques, Fraser, founder and CEO of SuccessSource Inc., argues that networking must become a way of life. He stresses the principles of Kwanzaa and African communal spirit, urging African Americans to adopt these concepts as a way of developing not only black businesses but black communities. The power of the book is that Fraser uses his and 13 other successful African Americans' experiences as examples. Also included are 20 exercises for networking, 25 best places to network, the dos and don'ts of networking, and the 50 best black speakers in America. This is a readable book loaded with valuable tips, but unlike other books on networking, Fraser places these techniques in a context that emphasizes developing the community along with the individual. The combination of philosophy and practice make this book highly recommended.
Joshua Cohen, Mid-Hudson Lib. System, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
Fraser joins the ranks of motivational self-help heralds Les Brown and Dennis Kimbro, who preach pride, self-respect, and empowerment from a black perspective. Fraser targets black professionals, entrepreneurs, and would-be small business owners with his message, which calls for a renewed spirit of solidarity, invoking the principles of Nguzo Saba, on which the week-long Kwanzaa holiday is based: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Brad Hooper

Customer Reviews

The book for the next millenium!
I would recommend reading this book, as well as giving this book as a gift to all college graduates. The chapter that tells how to create and do an awards ceremony in less than 2 hours alone is worth the price of the book! I particularly liked the way he defined "networking" vs. "neck-working"--and how to handle those who have mistaken one for the other. (Neck-working is misusing your opportunity to network by trying to hit on the opposite sex--a definite no-no!) Mr. Fraser's solid hints on connecting with like-minded individuals in the black community and giving back to the community, not abandoning it are fantastic--and doable. If you like commentary by people like Tavis Smiley, this is your book!

Great Networking Resource
Networking is a significant part of my business. George C. Fraser's Book - "Success Runs in Our Race", provides many excellent and effective strategies for networking.

Quality business and professional guidance!
George Fraser knows what is required to be successful in business or in your professional life no matter what your career or profession. Many of the skills he talks about in his book can be applied to your work life or your personal endeavors. On the surface this might sound odd but the success characteristics are the same. What he talks about are the required behaviors that lead to your ultimate success. I will never forget how he emphasizes the importance of networking and how your networks must be cultivated in order to gain maximum benefit. He made the point very clear when I heard him talk to a group when he said, "networking is much more than meeting someone then calling them the next week to ask for a business favor." If everyone learns that networking is and must be created for win/win situations, everyone realizes benefits in the long run. This is a wonderful book and one that has value for anyone attempting to gain a competitive advantage in the business world. Relationships are how things get done in the business world and this book certainly provides the required tools for making that happen.