Author's Note: Tour 4: A Judge was written specifically for a brand new networker, to offer advice around networking groups, and what to do if one found himself frustrated with them. The article guides the frustrated, new networker in how to decide to look for a new group, if he is frustrated with his current one.

You'll find this article very similar to Tour 4, however this article focusses on what a more seasoned networker might look for in a group, and takes a more broad approach.

Occasionally fellow networkers will ask my opinion on certain networking groups, and I'm always happy to give it. This made me think about what characteristics I actually look for when I choose a networking group to join or participate in, in some way.

A "Top 3" list might be useful, so here are the top three characteristics I recommend you look for as you decide which networking group to join, or be a part of.

Look for Fun, Friendly People, Who Can Laugh at Themselves

When a networking group can laugh and have fun with each other, this indicates that the members in the group are truly connected, and trust each other.

According to the folks at helpguide.org, laughter has multiple benefits. They say:

"Humor lightens your burdens, inspires hope, connects you to others, and keeps you grounded, focussed, and alert."

I don't know about you, but grounded, focussed, and alert are all great states of mind to be in while I seek to make great connections with those around me, and if laughter helps me do that, I'm a big fan.

While you aren't looking for a stand up comedy act in your networking group, if the people laugh while you are there, you are probably in a good room.

If they don't laugh, don't give up on them right away. Return a few times and see if the group loosens up on that third or fourth visit. Overall however, you want to feel welcomed and that the people are capable of having fun.

Look for Some Kind of Accountability and Passing of Referrals

At the opposite end of the networking spectrum, networking groups that have some type of accountability, however slight, tend to do better, and stay together longer. Accountability doesn't need to be a dirty word in networking, and it can range all the way from requiring a purchase of drink or meal at the hosting restaurant, to mandatory attendance requirements.

Many of my fellow networkers find a weekly meeting, with attendance requirements, too much for their liking. I actually love the accountability of BNI, because I find I'm able to build relationships faster than the groups that have less stringent policies.

Consider what your schedule will allow you to commit to before you say yes to any networking group. I will recommend that you look for a group that knows the type of activity it wants from members, and accountability will generally lay out those expectations very well.

Additionally, a networking group is different from a social gathering, in that a networking group's purpose is to pass referrals to each other.

This is a key component in any good networking group. Without referrals being passed, you may find yourself frustrated at the time you spend attending the group and getting to know it's members.

Look for a Logistical "Good Fit"

Networking is always a long term strategy, so find a group that you will be able to attend on a regular basis without too much logistical bluster.

This is the one I struggle with the most. I am often asked to join various networking groups, and I usually want to join many of them. However, because I am able to attend one meeting 45 miles away at an odd time, doesn't mean I will be able to continue to attend over a period of months or years.

Also consider how many groups to join. If you are already part of 2 or 3 networking groups, the 4th invitation seems best declined, mainly because you need to able to fully engage with the groups you are already a part of.

Think of the cans of Welch's grape juice concentrate. To make grape juice, three equal parts of water are added...not 12. The right amount of water added to the concentrate produces the optimal glass of grape juice. Remember this as you consider how many networking groups to add to your plate, or pitcher as it were.

Go network my friend, and remember:

The right networking group is out there for you to be involved in. Be choosy about which one(s) receive the benefit of your bright soul.

The Networker's Tour Guide, Faithann Basore, and her husband Dave have owned Window Cleaning Plus (WCP) for 10 years. Growing WCP through networking has given Faithann the desire to guide other small business owners through the networking terrain so they can feel comfortable and build long lasting relationships in their business.

Got networking questions? Email me at [email protected].