“It’s great to spend time at a networking event with someone you know and like. But that’s not what you’re there for. Your goal is to expand your network by meeting new people” ~ Beth Ramsay
As a self-proclaimed introvert, holiday events often meant holding up a wall or finding a comfortable chair and sipping a cocktail. There would be the occasional smile or wave at a familiar face, a casual introduction to someone new, and the standard chit-chat that often takes place. However, as a grow my business and personal brand, I am beginning the recognize the importance of networking. Furthermore, networking has the potential to open doors I didn’t know existed. For those looking to change careers, the same can be true. You’d be surprised how many opportunities are waiting for you at the next holiday event you attend. The key to successful networking, however, is being prepared!
Your company’s holiday social, the neighborhood’s Christmas potluck, or your friend’s New Year’s Eve party are some of the best networking opportunities of the year. In fact, any social function gives you the chance to shine and talk about what you can do. Just remember, it’s a two-way street. While you want to present yourself in the best light, it’s not all about you. Take the time to get to know the person you’re talking to. Be engaging! Ask questions! Try to develop an honest connection. This is what will make you memorable if/when you contact them later.
Below are my top 5 proven networking tips for your next holiday gathering…
Dress Appropriately
There is nothing more upsetting than showing up for an event and feeling awkwardly dressed. For the next two hours, you’ll either spend your time pulling and tugging on your clothes or listening to music from the bathroom. To avoid this, take the time to contact the host and ask about the attire. This is perfectly acceptable, and it is a great way of introducing yourself.
When attending an office party, it is important to remember that these are still your coworkers. Yes, you are allowed to add a little flair to your attire, but nothing too risque. You do not want to become the topic of the office chat on Monday.
If you have been invited to a family gathering, you can afford to be a little bold in your clothing options. Just be sure to find out how casual or dressy the attire should be. A simple cocktail dress is always a great option because you can do so much with it. As for accessories, simplicity is key! Keep it modest. No one likes an attention whore. Most of all, wear comfortable shoes as you’ll never know how much standing or dancing you will be doing.
Be Prepared
I simply cannot stress this enough! Regardless of the type of event (office party, family gathering, etc.) you are attending, you must be ready to network at a moments notice. Stumbling over your words and say “umm” is not the impression you want to leave with someone. Whether you are looking to change careers, re-enter the workforce, or establish new connections for your business, you must be able to clearly state who you are and what you can do.
Take the time to develop a “pitch” message of no more than 2-3 sentences. Your pitch should concisely state how fabulous you are in a professional tone. More importantly, it should give the person you’re talking to a reason to want to know more about you. Practice your pitch in the mirror, while driving to work, and any other opportunity you can find. Understand the difference between delivering your message to your mom’s childhood friend, and the CEO of the company you want to work for. There is a difference!
Lastly, be sure to have 5-10 business cards with you. Bring a pen! Get a manicure! And be confident.
It’s All About the Conversation
One of my favorite networking tips has to deal with the conversations you have. It’s important to remember that many people do not want to discuss business during social events. And that’s okay. Don’t push the issue. Hopefully, your pitch has already been embedded in their memory. Now it’s time to finesse them with your conversation and relationship building skills. So what ‘cha gonna talk about?
Have you read any good books lately? What was the last movie you saw? Try to keep the conversation light. Avoid topics like politics and religion because they can be divisive discussions for a holiday party.
Networking is all about the give and take. Listen to what the other person is saying and ask questions. Be present in the conversation and be sure to make eye contact. Take mental notes on things that may help prompt a future phone call or lunch invitation.
Recap The Event
Immediately after you return home from a holiday event, pull out any business cards you collected. Recall every conversation and review any notes that you made. Every note is a potential opportunity. And while you may not see the connection right away, they may prove to be valuable in the near future.
Follow-Up With a Thank You
Reach out to everyone whose business card you collected, even if it is just a brief email. For an extra touch, you may want to consider sending a personal hand-written thank you note. Tell them you enjoyed your conversation and wish them the best in the coming year. Be sure to clearly point out something you spoke about so they can make the correlation.
Recapping the event and following up with a thank you note tend to work hand in hand with each other. Offer to keep in touch by exchanging your social media information, or schedule a time to meet for coffee or lunch. You have to nurture your new contacts. Do your best to gauge their interest and try not to be too pushy.
Mastering these tips will help boost your confidence and make networking at any social function less stressful.
