How Not To Despise Networking This Festive Season

The festive season is almost upon us, bringing joy, celebrations, and, let's face it, an overwhelming number of social commitments. Between work events, family gatherings, and last-minute catch-ups, it’s easy to feel stretched too thin, leaving little room for meaningful connection.?

But the truth is, this season doesn’t have to be about squeezing in as many obligations as possible.?

Instead, it can be an opportunity to intentionally connect with the people who truly matter in your life.

In an age where busyness is mistakenly seen as a badge of honour and we’re more “connected” than ever through our devices, we’re often left confusing transactional networking with transformational connection. Scrolling through social feeds, hopping between parties, and ticking boxes isn’t connection; it’s burnout in disguise.

So how do we shift away from transactional interactions to transformational ones??

Well, it all starts with being intentional.?

How can you focus on being intentional with your connection and networking? Here are a few of the basics.?

1. Don’t Be Passive

Intentional connection is about thoughtfulness. Don’t just reach out to people when you need something or because it’s “what you’re supposed to do.” Instead, think about the people in your world and why they matter to you. Choose your interactions with care, whether it’s setting up a meaningful one-on-one coffee catch-up or sending a heartfelt message to someone you value.

Take time to reflect on who has made a difference in your life this year.

Write them a note, schedule a call, or send a small but meaningful gift. The effort you put into intentionality will foster deeper, more fulfilling relationships, making your festive season feel far richer.

2. Engage, Don’t Just Show Up

It’s easy to show up to an event, smile, and make small talk, but true connection requires more. Let people see you. Speak up, ask thoughtful questions, and share your own stories.

If you’re attending a festive gathering, challenge yourself to step outside the surface-level chatter. Instead of focusing on how many people you can talk to, prioritise quality over quantity. Really listen. Be curious.

Ask about someone’s year, their challenges, and what’s next for them. When you engage authentically, people remember how you made them feel.

And don’t just engage at events, reach out in quieter moments. Schedule a time to check in with someone who might not have a bustling holiday season. Sometimes, the most meaningful connections happen in the quieter spaces.

3. Give, Don’t Just Take

The holidays can often feel like a season of taking; gifts, time, and attention. But, it’s also the perfect opportunity to give in meaningful ways. Look at your relationships and ask yourself, “How can I show up for this person?”

Set aside time for acts of kindness. Maybe it’s mentoring someone in your circle, making an introduction that could help their career, or even just sending a message of gratitude.

Reflect on promises you’ve made throughout the year and follow through.

Consider dedicating time for “Random Acts of Kindness” meetings; intentional catch-ups that serve no agenda but to offer your support and care.

When you give without expecting anything in return, you create trust, deepen bonds, and nurture relationships that go far beyond the season.

This festive season, challenge yourself to focus less on filling your calendar and more on filling your connections with depth.?

Instead of rushing through obligations, slow down.

Take a breath. Reach out with intention. Because the most meaningful gift you can give this season is your presence, your time, and your authenticity.

Janine x