Book Review: The Virtual Handshake: Opening Doors And Closing Deals Online, by David Teten and Scott Allen

Below is my book review that I hope will appear on Amazon.com soon. I was so impressed by this book that I just had to say something here, especially because it helped me to understand what my friend Deb was talking about when she kept telling me about blogging. If you don’t mind getting a little left-brain with me here and if you are curious to know more about how the virtual world is becoming more and more relevant to our everyday lives (especially if you want to better identify with the young people of today, who are sometimes referred to as the digital generation), then check this out. Otherwise, stay tuned. I’ll be publishing some more uplifting attitude and inspiration stuff soon!

As its subtitle suggests, The Virtual Handshake is all about interfacing with business and social contacts through the worldwide web. In my field (recruiting), the lines between business and social contacts blur since everyone I encounter might need either a new job or project, might know someone who does, or might be in a position to hire. Networking is not just about pressing flesh and passing business cards at a luncheon these days. There is a rapidly growing area of opportunity to meet people and make deals on the internet.

However, please note that The Virtual Handshake does not merely expound the virtues of the internet or report results of deals closed and marriages made, the authors also make the technologies easy to understand and provide practical advice on how to use what’s out there. Published in 2005, the book provides current information on various virtual options and their uses. The authors cover topic such as social software and services online; virtual clubs and associations; tips on managing the deluge of email; basics on blogging; effective use of email blasts without being perceived as a spammer; netiquette; privacy protection; and, of course, real-life examples of the use of the virtual medium. Easy to read and very useful, The Virtual Handshake is a primer for those of us who haven’t been hip to the virtual world that’s out there. It made me wonder if I’ve been living under a rock! The good news is it’s not too late to learn, and this book will definitely help. Oh, and you should check out their site for additional, ongoing information updates as well:   http://thevirtualhandshake.com