Solid advice. Especially this bit:

 "I don’t believe it’s the size of the network that is important. I believe it is the quality of the relationships and your ability to make authentic connections that most greatly impacts your true worth. I believe that seeking out and working in collaboration with others who share your interests and values will provide a stronger foundation, enabling you to reach a higher level of success than you would on your own."

Easier said than done!

Porter Cole's four networking tips:

1.) Use technology to accelerate your connecting efforts

2.) Don’t under estimate the role of events, conference or places that I call “Power Pockets” in your networking efforts.

3.) View networking as a lifestyle and an “inside” game first and remember networking is about relationships not transactions.

4.) Focus on giving and helping others and you’ll get more back than you ever expected.

I do like point #4. A lot.

so socially awkward or introverted people suffer from a form poverty?  

Yes. As a result, they have to work harder to achieve the same results.