Advice from the Women of Third Thursday at Three:

Stick with it. If, after a quarter you do not seem to get anything from joining a networking group, stick with it for another quarter just to make sure. You may need to belong to the networking group for one year before you start receiving well-deserved business referrals. Referrals come with trust, and trust can take time to develop.

Do you still have questions about the importance of networking groups or whether or not you should join?

Members of The Third Thursday at Three answered the following questions to help clarify the benefits and importance of networking groups.

What are the top three reasons to join a networking group?

To become a super connector, to find better ways to network, and to grow your business.

How does one join a networking group?

To be effective, start your own within your personal circle or accompany an existing member to one of their meetings.

Who can join?

Women who are leaders in their field, who are powerful marketers and have a common thread in how they think.

Talk briefly about the philanthropic aspect of your organization.

Great networkers are participants and contributors. You can meet interesting people at local charity fundraisers. We support local charities that members are actively involved in.

What do you do at your meetings?

They are business focused. We are matchmakers and connectors looking to introduce others in our group to those with whom we work with.

How can women find out about networking groups?

Through their business relationships, the local chamber or the Internet.