Can 'How To Make People Like You In 90 Seconds Or Less' Help In Networking?

Absolutely, 'How to Make People Like You in 90 Seconds or Less' is a game-changer for networking. The book dives into the psychology of first impressions, emphasizing how body language, tone, and genuine curiosity can forge instant connections. It’s not about manipulation—it’s about aligning your energy with others. For example, mirroring someone’s posture or matching their speech pace creates subconscious rapport. The 90-second rule isn’t a gimmick; it’s a framework to be present and engaging swiftly, which is gold in fast-paced networking events.

What sets it apart is its practicality. Instead of vague advice, it breaks down interactions into actionable steps: open with a warm smile, use their name early, and listen actively. The book also tackles overcoming social anxiety by reframing nervousness as excitement. I’ve tested these techniques at conferences, and the difference is stark—conversations flow naturally, and follow-ups feel effortless. It’s especially useful for introverts who dread small talk, turning it into structured, meaningful exchanges. If you’re serious about networking, this book is like having a cheat sheet for human connection.

This book nails the essence of networking—speed and authenticity. Think of it as a toolkit for creating instant rapport. It teaches micro-skills like maintaining eye contact just long enough to build trust but not creep someone out, or how a slight tilt of the head signals openness. These nuances matter in networking, where time is limited. The author’s background in sales shines through; the tactics are crisp, no-nonsense, and designed for real-world chaos.

I love how it balances science with street smarts. For instance, it explains why a firm handshake (not a bone-crusher) triggers positive associations, or how nodding subtly encourages others to keep talking. It’s not about memorizing lines but mastering subtle cues that make you memorable. The 90-second benchmark keeps you focused—no overthinking, just genuine engagement. Whether you’re at a job fair or a cocktail party, these techniques cut through the noise. It’s not a magic bullet, but it’s the closest thing to one for making quick, lasting impressions.

As someone who used to dread networking, this book flipped the script for me. It’s packed with bite-sized strategies that actually work. The core idea? Likability isn’t accidental—it’s a skill. The book breaks down how to project warmth (uncross those arms!), ask open-ended questions, and leave a conversation gracefully. The 90-second target isn’t about rushing but optimizing those critical initial moments where judgments form.

What stuck with me was the emphasis on curiosity. People love talking about themselves, and the book teaches how to guide conversations there effortlessly. I’ve applied this at meetups, and it’s wild how often strangers end up sharing useful contacts or advice. The book also debunks myths, like needing to be extroverted to network well. Instead, it focuses on leveraging your natural traits. If you want to turn awkward encounters into opportunities, this is your playbook.

Short answer: yes. The book’s strength is its focus on immediacy—how to make those first few seconds count. Smiling genuinely, using positive body language, and finding common ground fast are all covered. It’s especially handy for high-stakes scenarios like interviews or client meetings. The advice isn’t revolutionary, but it’s distilled into a no-fluff, easy-to-apply format. I’ve seen introverted colleagues use these tips to network without feeling drained. It’s a quick read with long-term impact.