10 practical ways to expand your network

I wrote on Monday about how important it is to have a diverse social network.  That's easy to say—but how do you go about it?

I'm amazed how many interesting and diverse people I've met over the years on airplanes, in airport waiting rooms, even on line at the supermarket—the key has always been just making the choice to say hello or strike up a conversation, rather than shoving my nose in a book.

As for more formal, organized ways to broaden your network, here are ten ideas to get you started:

1. Attend events sponsored by technology councils or associations.
2. Attend your firm's research conferences.
3. Call everyone whose name appears on an affinity publication over the course of a year. (The publication should pique your personal interest.)
4. Volunteer for a local fundraising project.
5. Volunteer for a national fundraising project.
6. Work for a political candidate.
7. Become an officer or director of a social or sporting club.
8. Join a chamber of commerce and regularly attend meetings.
9. Take plant tours sponsored by local organizations.
10. Attend industry gatherings like Comdex.

Want 47 more? 

57 Ways to Expand Your Social Network (free registration required)
Still falling back on that same old social network?  Use these 57 time-tested activities to broaden your contacts and increase the flow of knowledge necessary to build your business.