A Practical, Human Guide to Networking Without the Fake Smiles and Forced Pitches

Let’s be honest.

Most people don’t hate networking because they’re bad at it.

They hate it because it often feels:
awkward
forced
transactional
.... and just a little bit fake.

From Awkward to Connected was written for everyone who has ever:
stood awkwardly near the coffee table pretending to check their phone
forgotten what they do halfway through introducing themselves
dreaded online breakout rooms
or wondered:
“Surely there’s a more human way to do this?”

There is.

Written in Keith Budden’s warm, conversational and often humorous style, From Awkward to Connected strips away the nonsense traditionally associated with networking and replaces it with something far more powerful:
genuine human connection.

This isn’t a book about becoming the loudest person in the room.

It’s about becoming someone people remember, trust, and genuinely enjoy talking to.

Inside the book, Keith explores:

• why networking feels awkward for so many people
• how to make conversations feel natural
• why listening matters more than pitching
• how referrals actually happen
• the power of follow-up
• networking for employees (not just business owners)
• online networking etiquette
• building long-term professional relationships
• and how to network without sounding fake, salesy or scripted

Packed with relatable stories, practical insights, humour, and real-world advice, this book is designed to help people feel more confident, more comfortable, and far more connected — whether networking online, in person, or anywhere in between.

Featuring a foreword by Stacey Calder, recognised by many as “the Nigella Lawson of business networking”, From Awkward to Connected is quickly becoming a must-read for business owners, professionals, employees, and anyone wanting to build better conversations and stronger relationships.

Because networking isn’t about working the room.

It’s about connecting with the people in it.

Buy Kindle version here

Buy Paperback version here