It’s Not Too Late to Take Advantage of Holiday Networking

January 4, 2010 0 Comments

In past articles, we have discussed the benefits of holiday networking. Because of the natural boost in good cheer and overall friendliness the holidays can bring, many have found through festive business networking that they find the opportunity to meet, and connect more comfortably with some of their most important business contacts. The distinctively positive vibe of most seasonal office merriment has helped many find they can be more relaxed, and create a better first impression.

With the dawn of the new year just behind us, some imagine the opportunity of networking accessibility through holiday parties has slipped away till next year; but this should not discourage you from spending the time optimizing your networking potential. Aside from holiday celebrations and themed gatherings, there are countless alternative types of business events that active networkers and intelligent job seekers will use to their advantage throughout the course of the year. Charity events, retirement parties, business dinners, and other corporate affairs can all be just as constructive and positively effective by bridging the gap between you and the influencers with whom you wish to become acquainted.

The National Association of Female Executives (NAFE) recently listed five networking tips in their email newsletter (News and Notes) offering some insider advice for corporate networking. The Resume Bear team would like to share their ideas with you, but also remind you that although their article is written specifically addressing Holiday networking do’s and don’ts for current employees of a particular company, the technique can be just as useful for determined job seekers who find themselves included in different events. These same guidelines should be followed with your best discretion at any appropriate corporate networking event; regardless of its purpose, or the time of year.

5 Tips: Office Party Equals Opportunity – for YOU

(Click on the link to sign up for a free trial subscription to the NAFE newsletter)

According to Networking Specialist Ivan Misner, Ph.D.: “The holiday office party is NOT just a place for free food and drinks. It can be the best time to introduce yourself to an executive,” he explains. “Making an impact on the boss can be a real career booster. It opens the door for a raise and even a promotion.” Ivan is founder and chairman of BNI, the world’s largest business networking organization – and the author of the #1 bestseller,Masters of Sales and New York Times bestseller.

Here are five tips for making the most of office holiday events:

Be Prepared! Know who you are talking to, what their job role in the company is and what they’ve done this year that has improved the overall performance of the business. Use this info as a way to start a conversation, “Hi Mr. Boss, I was so impressed by the way you handled the Jones Company’s campaign, how did you know that would work?”
Have A Teaser Topic Prepared. We’re approaching the end of the year and every executive wants her company to increase profits and performance in the new year. Have an idea ready that describes how you can improve your sector in the coming year. Don’t give away the goose, set up a meeting to discuss the details.
Don’t Overdo It. Yes, the holiday party is a good time to introduce yourself to the execs but remember, it’s still a party. Don’t act as if you’re in the boardroom giving a presentation. Keep it natural and leave them intrigued.
Don’t Have More than One Drink. It’s a party, but it’s not YOUR party. You don’t want to be stinking of liquor when you approach the higher ups. Remember, the holiday office party should be considered a work event and you should never over do it on alcohol or you could potentially lose your job.
Ready, Set… Meet the Boss. The end game here is to open the door for follow up. You want to connect with the boss after the party, one-on-one. Introducing yourself to the company head executive can be an intimidating experience, so give yourself an informed pep talk. Know your value; make a list of the things you have done for the company over the past year and understand your role in the company’s success. Once you’ve got this down, there’s no reason you shouldn’t feel good about yourself.

Another factor to remember when building your networking base through corporate gatherings over the holidays, is that many industries depend on their high holiday profit margins. There are many individual industries, such as restaurants, retail, and hospitality, that during the holiday season may be forced to hold off on corporate festivities until after their holiday business starts to die down. This is true whether they are they corporate chains or Mom & Pop shops.

There are many businesses that have Holiday celebrations well into the month of January, which you can use to your networking advantage. The point is, with some tailored networking skills, and keen understanding of your particular circumstances, there is always an opportunity, no matter the season, where you could be making a positive networking connection that could change your life.

Happy New Year!

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