Top 5 Holiday Party Networking Tips
Whether it be The Day of Ashura, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Bodhi Day, Virgin of Guadalupe, Las Posadas, Christmas or just a reason to pull out the Santa and Elves costumes; you cannot go one week without being invited to some company sponsored, community or religious event.
While it is extremely important to respectfully recognize the multitude of different backgrounds, faiths and beliefs being displayed; it is equally important to remember this is a perfect time to really focus on your professional branding and how you want to be perceived in the New Year. These five holiday party networking tips will help you do just that.
(1) EVERY EVENT IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO NETWORK
While the eggnog is flowing, festive music is in the air; remember building relationships is what you are focused on and not just another glass of the bubbly. This tends to be the time when Corporate America slows down just a tad; so people are more open to attending after-hours holiday events.
Capitalize on that by attending functions and reconnect with colleagues, company leaders, recruiters, and so on. Remember to connect with people you DO NOT KNOW and do not spend time discussing what you do. Yes, you'll want to listen as much as you talk. This is a time for individuals to relax and enjoy themselves in a setting that allows them to get to know you. You are not just the job you currently have nor the position you are trying to land; successful networkers know to leave those things at the door and simply bring themselves instead.
(2) NEVER FORGET THE BUSINESS CARD
I cannot tell you how many times I have gone to an event where you offer your business card only to hear, “I’m sorry but I’ve run out of cards” or “Oops, I forgot to bring them.” While I am a HUGE advocate of leveraging technology, there’s something to be said about that four sided little thing called a business card and how it will appear to top executives if you chose not to bring one.
If you are in-between jobs, INVEST in a good quality business card (and no, this does NOT include Vistaprint). Think creatively, think unique, think memorable.
My original business card from a few years ago, seen here, is only one of many examples of how you can separate yourself from just another business card holder. From the silk paper to the raised colorful and glossy water droplets, it always proved to get the needed attention it deserved.
In 2013, I upgraded that card to a wooden engraved business card.
(3) SEND HOLIDAY CARDS
Studies have shown that some 63% of 1,000 men and women surveyed nationwide have mailed tangible holiday greetings. Holiday Cards are almost small gifts. Well timed Holiday Cards can make you stand out and be the first to receive that coveted lunch meeting in the New Year.
In this world of digital communication, people still love to receive snail mail, display it on their office desks and post them to their office doors. But choose to be different by not choosing the proverbial Hallmark Card. Instead consider CardsDirect.com. But be aware of varying religious beliefs - respectful engagement is always the goal. Never forget that this is a time for spreading peace, joy and fun.
(4) A BOTTLE OF WINE BEGS TO BE SHARED
Consider sharing a bottle of wine as a gift with those top five executives you really want to add to your network. There are several wine companies out there and it doesn't have to break the bank account to be effective. I am reminded of a saying my mother has always reminded me when sending gifts, it is the thought that counts. ALWAYS be remembered for your thoughtfulness.
(5) TIMELY FOLLOW-UP IS IMPERATIVE
After all the tinsel has been taken off the tree, the candles put away and the holiday travel has ended; never forget to drop a note of thanks to all those you were able to connect with in person. Add them to your LinkedIn network and work to schedule time for coffee, lunch or an in-office meeting. Not doing this has the potential of making you the person an executive or recruiter met but just cannot seem to remember.
Creative Traffic Coordinator
7 年I think it's important to know your connection too. What other than wine as a gift would be appropriate?
James, thank you for this fantastic article. Meaningful, specific steps inspire us to take action. I'll be sending this to my clients and colleagues. Holiday events can be energizing for some and devastatingly frightening for others, especially for many of those from the STEM backgrounds. Scientists, Technology, Most Engineers and Financial Data analysts-and Accountants. My tips for my clients who are often international professionals, include: A. Research - Find out who is going to the event by emailing the event hosts. B. Get 2 other friends to go with you - Reason - a group of 3 is seen as "friendlier" than groups of 2, therefore easier for someone else to approach and introduce themselves. C. On that note: Observe the room and find people in odd-number groups ( 1, 3, 5). It's easier to ask "May I join you?" and be accepted into their conversations. D. Develop two "Intro" statements : a. A 3-5 second introduction about yourself. Keep it simple and don't say which company you work for. At 2-3 words per second... EX: "My name is Adam Chang. I'm a stock market data analyst " b. The 2nd statement is delivered Only if someone asks " What brought you here?". Again, Keep it Simple and helpful! - "To learn more about X and how I may help". Rationale: People do not care about us ..Until.. We care about them... ___________ The other approach to the 2nd statement is to ask a simple "Wh" question about general interests related to the event or their interests. "What have you read lately that really sparked your interest?"... "What areas / speakers/ workshops/ vendors do you suggest that I visit?" ____ Conclude with the powerful 5 step sequence in James's article. People with definitely be very receptive to accepting your LinkedIn invitations. Cheers!
Staff HR Technical at Lockheed Martin
8 年Nice article, thanks.
Seattle's Headshot Specialist 425.501.9725
8 年I was contemplating blowing off a business/holiday gathering later today, didn't want to deal with rush hour traffic. Thanks for changing my mind!