It's probably no surprise that one of the questions I'm asked most frequently is some form of: "Where's the best place to network?" To which there is certainly no standard answer. So much depends on what you're trying to accomplish, your industry, the type of people you'd like to meet, etc. etc. However those answers that people are looking for are typically more about specific organizations, events or groups to get involved with. Finding the BEST place to network is actually a little different and is an even more personal choice.

In my opinion and experience the best relationship are forged when you're doing something you are absolutely passionate about working shoulder to shoulder with other individuals who share that same passion. These experiences often times create the deepest of life long relationships. So the obvious question here is: "How do I get there?"

The first step in what I'll call 'Passionate Involvement' is either the most difficult step, or absolute no-brainer easy depending on your experience. You first have to ask yourself what you are most passionate about. Is it your church? A favorite hobby? Your industry? A non-profit organization? A political cause? Serving some subsection of the community? Figure out for yourself what you're most passionate about that absolutely gets you fired up.

The next step is finding other people who share this passion. Most frequently there will be some organization where these like minded individuals congregate, donate or otherwise take part and get involved. In many instances there may be several of these organizations. Spend the time to get to know these groups and determine where you think you best fit.

The third and final step is the most important, but if you haven't done a good job with step one it won't be meaningful and may even be difficult. This is where you get involved! Whatever that is for you. Ideally you want to figure out how best to leverage your talents and skills and apply them to your organization or cause. Your ultimate goal is probably to work on a board of directors or to be equally involved in the inner-circle if your particular passionate outlet doesn't have a board.

Please don't expect to complete steps one and two and immediately be nominated to serve on the board. You're going to need to make some contributions before that will happen, and it may take years before you attain a seat on that board depending on the organization. However, if this really is your passion those years you spend contributing will be tremendously fulfilling and you'll be making incredible connections with new friends all the way along. Again, you'll know you've not made the right choice if at any point you're not being energized by your involvement. Sure there will be frustrations and challenges like anything else, but as a whole your contributions really should be quite fulfilling.

How are you passionately involved? Please feel free to share your passions and involvement success stories for others to learn from.

Happy Networking!

Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com