Connect by Design: A Field Guide to Networking Without the Sleaze

By: Singh, Abhay

Networking doesn't have to feel like manipulation. This book shows you how to build a professional network that
creates real opportunities-without the sleaze.

If traditional networking makes you cringe, you're not alone. Most networking advice treats people like
transactions: collect contacts, pitch yourself, extract value. No wonder it feels gross.

Connect by Design offers a different approach: design every interaction for trust first, lead with concrete help
instead of empty pitches, match conversations to what people actually need (not just what you want), actively
bridge beyond your comfort zone, and protect yourself when things get murky.

Inside, you'll discover:
- Research-backed frameworks like HVAC (for outreach) and CLEAR-IT (for gray-zone defense)
- The difference between affective and cognitive trust-and why both matter
- How to give generously without getting exploited
- Copy-ready scripts, templates, and checklists for every scenario
- A 30-day action plan that turns networking into a sustainable habit
- Age-appropriate tools for teaching kids and teens connection skills

Whether you're job hunting, building a business, or simply tired of transactional relationships, this field guide
synthesizes research from organizational behavior, network science, and conversation design into practical tools
you can use today.

Stop collecting contacts. Start building connections that create opportunity for everyone involved.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0FYX1YGVK
• ISBN13: 9798272477835
• Release Date: November 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 549 Pages
• Weight: 1.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.0" x 9.0"