“Why do you want to know the other person?” That’s the heart of the question and really depending on how well you can answer that, that’ll determine if you get to the next round. If you want to meet this person to talk shop then you may have a chance,e.g. let’s do lunch or meet for a drink after work, while being selfish at the beginning isn’t likely to go over well. I suppose if you’re in a group of Narcissists or Hedonists it might work, I don’t think most of the world works that way.

Unless a complete loser, (then forget all of what follows,) if either introduced to the person or happen to be well known by someone that the person is tight with, I would just ask straight out “I want to join your circle,” it rarely fails. Confidence is a powerful thing, with me and to those I know. A weak begging question is not my style, and would be an instant NO both ways in my world.

Hey! You guys are jumping the gun… ;-) The newsletter isn’t even OUT yet!

(But thanks for diving in early…)

The best way I’ve found to get included in a certain circle is to find out what professional associations they belong to and join. Then volunteer to help out with the next event. Or whatever group activity they may engage in such as a charity event or industry forum online.