Ferrazzi describes how his childhood experience caddying at a wealthy country and golf club taught him the lessons of networking that he uses to this day. Active relationship building is defined in this chapter as a way “to make a difference in people’s lives as well as a way to explore and learn and enrich [one’s] own” (7). The purpose of the book is stated in clear terms: to help people to “become the center of a circle of relationships, one that will help you succeed throughout life” (13). This chapter also includes a list of outcomes that the authors argue will emerge when living a life of building relationships, arguing that connection is engaging, creates stability, and is good for both individuals and organizations.

Chapter 2 begins with a story about Ferrazzi telling a group of college students about the key to success. “‘So you want the inside scoop,’ I respond. ‘Fair enough. I’ll sum up the key to success in one word: generosity” (14). The benefits of generosity are included in another list:

• Friends remain while business comes and goes.
• Prioritize giving.
• The business world is “fluid” and “competitive”; you have to be a brand.
• “Contribute.”
• “[R]each out” and remember when others did the same for you.