Redefining Networking
How to Lead with Your Unique Value
When people hear the word “networking,” they often cringe. This book makes that reaction a thing of the past, as readers learn how to experience more effective networking by leading with the unique value that they can provide to others. It provides direction for how one can build and maintain meaningful, mutually supportive relationships over one-and-done transactions. This approach to networking is something that everyone, a student, someone junior in their career or more seasoned, can implement.
“This book is a must-read for anyone looking to build meaningful, mutually supportive relationships in their professional journey. A true game-changer in the world of networking.”
- Letty Cherry, General Manager, Image & Culture, Microsoft
About the book
Networking has come to imply a transaction, and the available literature on networking focuses on transactional events, cocktail meetups, and going in with the intention of getting out.
But what if instead of suiting up and passing out business cards, the focus was on contributing to others, starting with close circles of coworkers, customers, friends, and family?
This longer-term versus transactional approach to networking is what makes this book unique, paired with the experience of author Monique Kelley, who’s built a career as a communications consultant for Fortune 50 and other global corporations with no advertising―solely through the network she’s cultivated for over 20 years. Illustrated with stories from her career, alongside perspectives from other professionals who know the power of true networking, this book shows that anyone can tap into this power and create demand for their skills and knowledge by depositing into relationships before withdrawing.
Put the work back in networking. Enable people to show up for you by showing up for them.
In the media
Who This Book is For
Professionals in all stages of their careers and students who are embarking on their career journeys, no matter their backgrounds or social styles, will learn how to build and foster genuine networks with this unique guide.
What Readers Are Saying
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![Letty Cherry]()
<autoplay speed=7></autoplay>"Redefining Networking is a transformative guide that challenges the traditional notions of networking and offers a fresh, value-driven approach…The practical insights and real-life examples provided make it an invaluable resource for both seasoned professionals and those just starting out. A true game-changer in the world of networking."
Letty Cherry
General Manager, Image & Culture, Microsoft -
![Lindsay Kaplan]()
"Monique Kelley deftly shows you how real influence is earned ― not by low-calorie schmoozing or shameless self-promotion, but by leading with substance and generosity. This is required reading for anyone serious about building a powerful, reputation-driven career rooted in trust, not transaction."
Lindsay Kaplan
Co-Founder, Chief -
![Andy Polansky]()
"Monique Kelley shines a light on how to find and celebrate your difference to fuel engagement and business success. Real-life stories featured in the book underscore the catalyzing nature of storytelling and active listening, and how ‘paying it forward’ creates a platform to share important learnings."
Andy Polansky
Former Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Weber Shandwick -
![Heather Monahan]()
"Redefining Networking is a guide to help everyone become more effective at networking. It’s rooted in the concept of giving value, not just asking for it. Author Monique Kelley takes the readers through a process to help them do this more naturally."
Heather Monahan
Top 50 Keynote Speaker, Best Selling Author, Podcast Host -
![Harry Wilson]()
"Monique shines a bright light on the biggest misconception about networking―that it’s all about happy hours, handshakes, and collecting contacts. Her perspective hits you in the chest. She reminds us that real networking isn’t transactional; it’s transformational."
Harry Wilson
Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Limitless Minds -
![DJ Eidson]()
"Redefining Networking is a refreshing and much-needed shift in how we think about building relationships. I’ve gotten to know Monique professionally over the years and her insights are as genuine as they are practical."
DJ Eidson
Co-Founder and President, Limitless Minds -
![Laura Schoen]()
"One of the co-founders of LinkedIn (Reid Hoffman) said that networks are not only about who you know, but what they know about what you can do. Monique Kelley has mastered the art of staying relevant, sharing stories about meaningful experiences, being present among her peers and contacts…her book about relationship-based networking should become a powerful tool..."
Laura Schoen
Chief Executive Officer, IPG DXTRA Health -
![Matt DeMichele-Rigoni]()
"In Redefining Networking, Monique redefines what networking truly means - putting others first, leading with authenticity, and having a ‘better together’ mindset."
Matt DeMichele-Rigoni
Owner and operator, Chick-fil-A Franchise - Copley Square, Boston -
![Lynne Olivarez]()
"…author Monique Kelley makes the case for a different kind of networking: one rooted in clarity, generosity, and real connection. Her three-step approach is thoughtful, actionable, and a welcome shift from the tired playbook so many of us have outgrown."
Lynnea Olivarez
Founder & Community Manager, Ticket to Biotech
About the Approach
Like many other investments – health, financial, learning and development for one’s career – effective networking is strategic. In the book, author Monique Kelley introduces a three-step process:
1. Identify Your Value
Consider what makes you unique and the value you can provide. As you gain more experience and widen your network, this value may evolve over time.
2. Find An Audience
Not every service or company is for everyone, and neither is your value. Who can benefit from the value that you provide?
3. Communicate Your Value
Identify ways to communicate your value, including through the art of storytelling.
No surprise, this book is the product of relationship-based networking between Monique and her peer in the communications industry.
About the Author
Monique Kelley is a trusted, purpose-driven professor (Boston University), consultant and author who serves in a fractional (interim) capacity for Fortune 50 and global biopharmaceutical companies seeking a strategic corporate communications or product marketing communications head who advances business objectives and alleviates their headaches.
She started her career in New York City, partnering with the top brands and companies, including Pfizer, Roche, Lilly, GSK and Merck. She has been in the pit at IndyCar (and successfully dodged a flying tire) for a diabetes education campaign for Lilly, pitched an annual marketing comms plan for the game-changing medicine ARICEPT® (donepezil) to Pfizer's cross-functional team as a junior employee when her boss was sick and has taken every opportunity since to contribute value.
Monique has built a strong network that she taps into for her consulting, referrals for her former coworkers and opportunities for her students and industry peers. At BU, she teaches the first and only Career Readiness course within the College of Communication. She teaches students and professionals alike her approach to effective networking and has facilitated “lead with your value” workshops for corporations and professional organizations.
Monique has won numerous industry awards and has served as a judge for them as well. She is also a Founding Member for women C-suite and executive community CHIEF.
She grew up in South Jersey and currently lives in Boston with her husband, Joe.
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