An award-winning networker has announced the release of his new book to help individuals and companies win more business.

Andrew Smith owned Aberdeen Business Network (ABN) for 14 years before agreeing the sale of his company at the end of 2022. During this time, ABN helped firms win more than £27m worth of business.

The new book, titled 'Cows, Not Cow: How To Make Your Business Networking Really Work' shares Andrew's insights into organising more than 300 networking events, attending over 500 events and speaking with thousands of attendees as well as helping networkers of all levels benefit as much as possible from the business networking experience. 

The book is a unique 'How To' business networking guide, which takes readers through the entire before, during, after and ever-after networking process. It is written in the style of '100 top tips' that can be read in order or dipped into as and when required.

Andrew, who lives in Aberdeen and is originally from Montrose, said:
“Over the years, I've learned some things about networking, so I decided to write a book. It’s something I've wanted to do for years and the post-business sale period was the perfect time to move things forward. 

“Whatever your experience when it comes to networking, I believe the advice given in the book will make you a better networker, which in the long run will help you win more business.

"One of the things that's given me the most satisfaction over the years is helping new and nervous networkers get comfortable and confident. I know that the tips in 'Cows, Not Cow' will help these people with their networking journeys.”

The book’s title – Cows, Not Cow – reflects the need to engage with as many people as possible, not just one or two. The aim is to share the love in the field of networking and to always keep building on existing relationships and creating ones.

Andrew says that focus is important and his top tips include – set your networking goals in advance; commit to consistent networking; enjoy two-way conversations; follow up and invest in your relationships. The book goes into far greater detail about networking, including dos and don’ts.

Over the years Andrew said company representatives had secured six-figure contracts as a result of attending ABN networking events. This included attendees from print, telecoms, motor trade, financial services and property leasing among others. He sold his business to former energy sector manager Leigh Reid, who now runs ABN.

Andrew was named Entrepreneurial Supporter of the Year as part of the 2014 Grampian Awards for Business Excellence and has also won Grampian Business Networker of the Year.

Andrew also runs a podcast named 'Cows, Not Cow: How To Make Your Business Networking Really Work' with John Mellis, Smooth Radio host and managing director of podcasting firm, Mellis Media. The podcast has been running for two years.

The book - Cows, Not Cow: How To Make Your Business Networking Really Work - can be purchased here.