Many people tend to think of networking in terms of attending events with a large number of people or building relationships on an individual basis. In fact, some of the most powerful networking happens while participating in small gatherings such as peer groups.

What is a peer group? A peer group is made up of people at similar places in their careers who act as a personal advisory board for one another. Peer groups can be an important part of your network, as they provide you with a trusted group of colleagues that you can turn to for advice, resources, connections and support. Ideally, peer groups offer an open and safe environment to test business ideas, discuss challenges and opportunities, and to gain honest feedback.

How do I find a peer group? Peer groups can be informal, occasional gatherings of a select group of people, or a more formal organization, with dues, bylaws and specific membership requirements. In some cities, the local chamber of commerce organizes formal peer groups for business owners to meet with other like-minded business owners. The Entrepreneurs Organization, The Alternative Board, Ladies Who Launch,  the Women’s Global Business Alliance, The Transition Network and, of course, w2wlink.com also do this for their members. Online peer groups like LinkedIn, The Ladders and w2wlink.com offer great opportunities to network with people from all across the country and even around the world.And w2wlink groups people with similar business/professional needs together through Network Circles. In some cases, however, you may need to create your own peer group.

How do I create a peer group? Finding the right people to be a part of a peer group is the key to success. While some members may be obvious, it’s important to include people who are not already your friends. Start by identifying two or three people you already know who are committed to growing their networks and advancing their careers. Include people who are outside of your industry or profession, as you will learn most by having a diversity of skills and experiences in your group. It is also worth noting that you shouldn’t necessarily limit your peer group to women.

Then, build the group by having each member look at her contact lists and adding one or two more. Limit this to between seven and ten people total; peer groups function best as a smaller group. This allows for some attrition while keeping it small enough for everyone to really get to know one another and actively participate in meetings.

How can I ensure a successful peer group? Be sure to set the ground rules for your peer group early. Decide how often you should meet (I recommend monthly), and ask all members to make the commitment. For the group to succeed, everyone must make attending and actively participating a priority. It goes without saying that confidentiality is critical to establish trust among members.

Make sure that everyone gets a chance to talk about themselves; peer groups are not a place for people to stay on the sidelines and observe. While you can meet with members of your peer group one-on-one, the group dynamic can be very beneficial when you are wrestling with a problem or analyzing the pros and cons of an opportunity. An idea or opinion from one member might spawn an idea from another, leading to a creative and productive session.

Between meetings be sure to participate in networking circles, email or through some other form of communication. This helps to strengthen relationships and maintain momentum. It's all about peers helping peers reach shared and individual goals and build business together.

Keep in mind that even with a successful set of people who develop close relationships, most peer groups will eventually play themselves out. That’s just fine; they have served a purpose and chances are the friendships developed within the peer group will last.

The author can be reached at: www.marnylifshen.com

Update your registration and profile to join an online peer/networking group through www.w2wlink.com. Join a group now to get to where you want to go -- faster!