Federal CTO Aneesh Chopra’s secret to networking

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Aneesh Chopra

When you think “networking,” words like “self-promotion” may come to mind. If so, it’s time to rethink your strategy. Federal CTO Aneesh Chopra offered a compelling counter-strategy in a recent talk before a group of entrepreneurs in Burlingame, Calif. His approach? Call it selfless networking.

That approach has been so successful for Chopra, he credits it with helping him land his current role at the White House. Here’s the back story: Years ago, Chopra found himself working for media mogul David Bradley. At one point, Chopra persuaded Bradley to attend an Indian CEO Council event. Over the course of 30 minutes, Chopra introduced Bradley to a dozen executives who, as Chopra recalls, astounded Bradley with a series of business possibilities.

Soon after, Bradley appointed Chopra high-tech advisor to his company. Chopra later became a partner in the business and then a managing director. Chopra went on to become secretary of technology for the Commonwealth of Virginia, then left to assume his current role at the White House.

If you’re wondering how to engage in your own brand of selfless networking, check out our recent piece with Keith Ferrazzi; he offers his own set of pointers. Plus, check out this classic bit of networking advice from the Washington Post.

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Posted by on Wednesday, October 14th, 2009. Filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

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