The Tim Ferriss Show

#99: How to Build a World-Class Network in Record Time

Aug 26, 2015

Discover how a few pivotal days at SXSW catalyzed a bestseller. Learn that building a genuine network doesn't require endless small talk. Uncover surprising strategies for effective networking, including how to manage drinking at events. Gain insights on engaging authentically with industry leaders and the importance of in-person meetings. Explore fitness tips that can enhance your networking prowess and advice on market testing for entrepreneurs. Embrace the art of asking the right questions to foster meaningful connections.

01:00:47

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

How to Make Small Talk

01:39

Selling Your Ideas Through Sheets Of Paper

00:56

Tips for minimizing the effects of alcohol and preventing hangovers

03:09

Answering the Right Questions

01:25

Intro

4min

Strategies for Building Meaningful Connections at Major Events

8min

Smart Drinking Strategies and Networking Insights

2min

Networking Strategies for Genuine Connections

40min

Fitness Tips and Entrepreneurial Guidance

4min

Insights on Podcasting, Reflection, and Productive Questioning

5min

Welcome to a special edition of The Tim Ferriss Show. Back in 2007, I experienced a massive tipping point for The 4-Hour Workweek at the South by Southwest (SXSW)conference held in Austin, Texas. Two or three days played a key role in the book becoming a worldwide bestseller in 40+ languages. So what exactly happened at the event? How did I optimize those 2-3 days? The below audio is a presentation I recently gave about a better, more effective way to network. My suggestions might surprise you or seem counterintuitive–the best way to build a world-class network quickly is to spend very little time networking, at least not in the “ugh, gross” sleazy sense of the word. In this episode, you’ll learn: How SXSW played a role in the success of The 4-Hour Workweek How you can “stack the deck” for your own product launches Simple biohacks for handling booze overload and sleep deprivation Why it’s so important to meet people in person to build your network The most common mistakes people make when attempting to “network” How to interact with A-listers (or opt not to) How to enjoy the ride and not end up exhausted with a pocket full of business cards that do nothing And much, much more… If you are able to apply a few lessons from this talk, you may find that you never have to network again. There is a better way. For all links, show notes, resources from this episode, please visit http://fourhourworkweek.com/podcast This episode is brought to you advertisement free. Want this to happen more often? Every Friday I send out a very short email called 5-Bullet Friday. These are the coolest things I've been playing with that week. It could include favorite articles, gizmos and gadgets, and a lot of other awesome stuff you could use immediately. Sign up for a week, and give it a try. It would mean a lot to me and I think you'll enjoy it. Enjoy!

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Past guests on The Tim Ferriss Show include Jerry Seinfeld, Hugh Jackman, Dr. Jane Goodall, LeBron James, Kevin Hart, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Jamie Foxx, Matthew McConaughey, Esther Perel, Elizabeth Gilbert, Terry Crews, Sia, Yuval Noah Harari, Malcolm Gladwell, Madeleine Albright, Cheryl Strayed, Jim Collins, Mary Karr, Maria Popova, Sam Harris, Michael Phelps, Bob Iger, Edward Norton, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Neil Strauss, Ken Burns, Maria Sharapova, Marc Andreessen, Neil Gaiman, Neil de Grasse Tyson, Jocko Willink, Daniel Ek, Kelly Slater, Dr. Peter Attia, Seth Godin, Howard Marks, Dr. Brené Brown, Eric Schmidt, Michael Lewis, Joe Gebbia, Michael Pollan, Dr. Jordan Peterson, Vince Vaughn, Brian Koppelman, Ramit Sethi, Dax Shepard, Tony Robbins, Jim Dethmer, Dan Harris, Ray Dalio, Naval Ravikant, Vitalik Buterin, Elizabeth Lesser, Amanda Palmer, Katie Haun, Sir Richard Branson, Chuck Palahniuk, Arianna Huffington, Reid Hoffman, Bill Burr, Whitney Cummings, Rick Rubin, Dr. Vivek Murthy, Darren Aronofsky, and many more.