Many people look to organized events as their primary excuse to network. However, some of the best opportunities to network for the best long term bang for your buck may be sitting next to you on an almost daily basis.

I'm talking about your coworkers. Over time one of the absolute best sources of life changing referrals comes from people you've worked with at some point in your career. Not only do they know you and like you, but they've been in a unique position to be able to see what you're capable of when you're at work.

Often one of the first places people turn when they're looking to take another step in their careers or to land that initial big consulting client are those they've worked with in the past. Far too often though we don't spend enough time getting to know those individuals when we had the best opportunity... When we're actually working with them!

This is some of the easiest, most natural networking you'll ever find. It's a piece of cake to ask that coworker in another department to join you for lunch or a quick drink after work.

The trick here is to focus most of your efforts on those that you don't naturally have an opportunity to spend a lot of time with. You'll have plenty of chances to get to know those who sit near you or work in the same group or department. Instead make a concerted effort to reach out to those who you don't ordinarily interact with.

Your efforts to build your coworker network are helpful on two fronts. In the short term you make yourself more valuable as an employee as you learn what makes other individuals and group tick. What they need to be successful, and look to find ways to make connections that aren't always immediately obvious. In the long term many will continue to move up in their own careers often times outside of your current employer. Consider that few people in this day and age will remain with their current employer longer than 3-5 years.

Make a list for yourself. Who would you like to start building relationships with? Personally I try to get to know somebody new at the office once every week.

If you're currently working for a very small company or have gone out on your own don't despair. Reach out to others in your industry who work nearby, or make an effort to reconnect with those you've worked with in the past.

Happy Networking!