Liz Lynch, Founder, Center for Networking Excellence

"Ask your peers about their professional associations. Ask if you can join them at an upcoming meeting to check out the group." - From 102 Secrets to Smarter Networking

The Lowdown: Whenever I sit down for follow-up meetings, one of the questions I always ask people is which groups they belong to. In New York, there are so many groups hosting a variety of events -- I'm sure the same is true in other major metropolitan areas -- and I'm always interested to know what's working for others. I even pose that question out loud to my seminar groups so others in the room can get suggestions too.

We all like to share information, especially if we believe it could help someone. When you get recommendations, check out the websites of groups that sound intriguing. Ask your contacts about upcoming events that they may be attending. If any seem interesting, go. At least you'll know one other person there.

I once ran a networking group for independent consultants and often offered to put new contacts on the guest list for a particular event so they could attend for free. They appreciated the gesture and many of them came. If you're having a good experience with a group, share it with your contacts. And if you're looking for a group, don't be shy about asking those around you for advice.

Liz Lynch is a business networking expert whose products, programs and seminars help entrepreneurs and professionals get clients, build their business, and reach their goals through networking.   If you're ready to start networking smarter, get your free tips now at www.NetworkingExcellence.com.