December Is The Best Month For Networking!
Yousef Shadid
LinkedIn & Cultural Trainer ?? Ex-Deloitte & EY ?? Communications & Content Manager?? Best-Selling Author
(See also: Want To Network Better In 2022? Here's How!)
Yes, I also can't believe that it’s that time of the year again! Good thing it's all about holidays and feasts with the loved ones.
Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, it’s undeniable that the festive season is the best time of the year to network.
From end of year drinks to New Year Eves plans and some dinners in-between, the power of such social (and professional) interactions is unquestionable.
Here’s what to do to make the most of this networking season:
1. Have one deep conversation, not multiple average ones!
I’m guilty of this myself. Whether it’s a networking event or a Christmas dinner, I used to be that guy who keeps jumping conversations. This hardly works in forming good connections.
What you want to do instead is to stay with one person, ask as many personal questions (appropriately) and avoid talking about work until it comes up naturally. it always does. Such conversations are memorable.?
2. Towards the end, ask for the connection!
Not doing it is a very common mistake. You often have a great chat with someone, talk about their families, jobs, and travels, yet still feel like you can’t ask for the connection.
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Towards the end, instead of framing it as an ask, simply say something like: “Would love to stay in touch with you, are you more on Insta or LinkedIn?” Even if they don’t use either, you’ll get some details that will make it easier to connect in the future.
3. Activate your current network!
This is why I love December. It’s the only time of the year where you can send a genuine message to various connections without it being 'out of the blue'.
“Merry Christmas", “Happy New Year” and “Have a great holiday” are universal positive messages that reconnect people after years of distance.
So what to do now??Go to your key LinkedIn connections, Instagram followers and Facebook friends and send them your good wishes.
It may take some time, but then again you have a whole month to do it!?
Happy December :)
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What else would you do to improve your network in December? Would love to know your thoughts below???????
Solicitor in Property, Business, Tax and Trusts | Business & Property Law Lecturer | Music Educator | Property Investor ??
1 年Absolutely. I remember years and years ago when I was working for a large tax accounting firm, the weeks leading up to Christmas was the time I built a very large network and made many connections that ended up becoming clients.