A good part of networking is aligning yourself with the right groups and organizations. Although it is ideal to choose more notable and credible associations such as chambers of commerce, business leagues, social clubs, it can be challenging to select the best ones. We cannot be members of all groups, but we can choose the groups that are most beneficial and align with our goals and values.

Here are some tips for choosing the best networks or business groups for continued success.

search committee

Attend different groups and get feedback from their members before joining. Create a checklist of qualities you value in the organization and its members. Visit their website and read their mission or vision. Find out about their sponsors, partners and affiliates. Use these criteria to determine if they are right for you.

word on the street

In addition to getting feedback from actual club members and associates, reach out to people outside of those networks. Find out how your brand and image appears within your industry, among your colleagues, peers, and even with your competitors. This is a great way to learn about the integrity, consistency, and value of organizations.

road less traveled

When deciding which groups to join, consider different factors before making a decision. Maybe you want to join a group to improve your communication skills and diversify your networks. Or, you want to join a group to get referrals and leads to expand your business efforts. Other times, you may consider joining a group because you like its members and it’s more of a social benefit.

Hopefully these tips can set you in the right direction to reach your intended goals. Being open-minded, clear, and direct in your approach is also helpful in the process.