Stop Networking for Nothing – A review of Oluwatoyin Asada’s Beyond Handshakes

Let’s be honest, many of us are guilty of it. We attend events, smile, exchange numbers, maybe even take pictures… and then nothing. No calls, no messages, no real relationship. Just vibes and empty contacts. So what exactly was the point?

Title: Beyond Handshakes: Turning your Contacts into Gold

This is the uncomfortable truth Oluwatoyin Asada tackles, and she does it in a way that makes you pause and rethink everything you thought you knew about networking.

What makes this book different is how personal it feels. The author lets you into her world not just through her words, but through her pictures. You see her and you see the rooms she has been in. It quietly tells you, “This person knows what she’s doing.”

But she doesn’t come across as intimidating. Instead, she feels real. She understands that networking can be awkward, uncomfortable, and even frustrating. And rather than judging you, she walks you through it, showing you that it’s a skill you can actually learn.

The book reads like a conversation. You can almost imagine her standing in front of you, speaking, explaining, pushing you a little. And she doesn’t just talk, she gives you tasks. Yes, actual things to do. It’s almost like she’s watching to see if you’re serious or just here to read and forget.

If you’ve ever said, “I don’t need to network, my work will speak for me,” this book will gently scatter that idea. Because the truth is, people matter. Connections matter. And waiting quietly is not a strategy.

At some point, the book even feels like a push, a nudge to get up, stop overthinking, and actually try. But just when you think it’s all smooth and encouraging, she reminds you of something important: not everyone will like you, and not everyone will want to connect. That part? Very real.

One thing you might wish for is more stories, more behind-the-scenes moments of how she built her connections. Because if we’re being honest, networking is not always as smooth as it sounds.

Still, the message lands. Networking is not a one-day thing. It takes effort, patience, and consistency. And yes, a bit of courage too.