Never Eat Alone

Never Eat Alone - Book Review

Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi is a book that will push you into action, no matter where you are in life. With 33 chapters spanning over 440 pages, it serves as an encyclopaedia for building relationships, both personally and professionally.

Keith is a firm believer that success isn’t just about what you know, but who you know.

What Stood Out?

While the book has its share of valuable insights, it often feels rooted in an old-school business mentality, handshakes, power lunches, networking events, and late nights over drinks. It raises an important question: are these the kinds of relationships you truly want to build?

On one hand, Keith emphasizes the importance of genuine connection and vulnerability in relationships. On the other, he encourages tactics like numbering and rating your contacts, constantly “pinging” people to stay on their radar, and being a “conference commando.” He even goes so far as to say “balance is B.S.”

Not to mention, his Yale background and career achievements are mentioned repeatedly which at times, makes the book feel more like a personal highlight reel than a guide for the reader.

The Core Issue

At times, the book feels pulled in too many directions, lacking a clear message. With fewer chapters and a more focused approach, this could be a practical guide for those looking to:

• Build meaningful relationships

• Engage with the people they already know

• Sell themselves effectively in their personal and professional lives

Final Rating: 3.8/5

While there’s wisdom in these pages, Never Eat Alone sometimes feels outdated and unfocused. It’s worth a read for networking insights, but take its advice with a grain of salt.

Reviewed by Jamie Waller