Whether you are looking to set up new business deals, are on the job hunt, or are competing for a promotion, holiday parties can be great networking opportunities.You can meet new people at holiday parties hosted by friends or at your company's party.It is important to plan what you want to say, set specific goals, and have as many quality conversations as possible.Make yourself stand out by being tactful and conscientious.
Step 1: Think of an effective way to introduce yourself.
Before meeting strangers or people in other departments at the gathering, consider how you will introduce yourself.Try not to make the description sound rehearsed by choosing a brief, compelling description.If you are launching a startup company, avoid saying things like, "I work from home and I'm trying to get this company off the ground, but seem to have constant trouble." The people you meet will likely interpret this as a lack of success.Say something like, "I am an entrepreneur and have just designed a new product."It has been a real adventure!
Step 2: Specific and appropriate networking goals can be set.
It is possible to check off realistic goals like meeting three new people or introducing yourself to at least one senior officer.If you want to get new investors for your product or service, try not to set unrealistic goals.
Step 3: Ask your friends to introduce you.
If you don't know who will be at the party, find out the guest list.If you want to meet someone at the party, ask the host or someone who will be there to introduce you to them.Say, "Hey, I know you invited Jim, the senior V.P."Product development to your party tomorrow evening.If you have a chance, would you introduce us?I would love to chat with him about my design.
Step 4: Ask them about their interests.
Your focus should be on others, even if you want to describe yourself in advance.Ask about others' professions, what they like about their jobs, and what their career ambitions are.Ask others about their hobbies and interests.Do your best to cultivate a sincere interest in what makes the people you meet tick, but try not to focus on shop talk alone.Tell me what your favorite parts of your job are."Where do you see yourself at this time next year?"Ask them questions about topics that aren't related to work.What is your favorite hobby?Do you like to read good books or watch good movies lately?
Step 5: Don't try to take everyone's time.
Do your best to get a feel for when it is time to mingle, or when the conversation is about to run out of steam.You don't want to monopolize anyone's time, and you certainly do not wish to waste your networking time.If either you or the other person starts doing all the talking or if you run out of things to say, try to notice.Say something like, "Pardon, I just saw someone I've got to say hi to - we'll touch base later." Avoid excusing yourself by saying "I'm going to get another drink or plate of food."
Step 6: Don't just thinklessly distribute your business cards.
You want to have a good amount of business cards.If you actually need it, you should offer one.They should not just decide on a number and try to meet a quota.After having a conversation, give someone a card.A card is useful if you've said that you want to keep in touch with people from other departments, or you have a mutual interest in tennis or golf.
Step 7: Limit the amount of alcohol you consume.
You should treat networking opportunities as work, since most holiday gatherings serve alcohol.Limit yourself to a maximum of two drinks if you choose to drink.Don't drink if alcohol will compromise your judgement or speech.
Step 8: You can participate in the party.
There are many holiday parties with themes like ugly sweater parties or canned food collections.If you don't take part, you'll look uneducated or lazy.If there is no dress theme, make sure you are dressed appropriately.Remember, you should be treating this as a casual work affair, and don't dress festively for the sake of it.
Step 9: You should be a hospitable guest.
If it is appropriate, bring a bottle of wine, dessert, cheese, or some other item that your host will appreciate.The most senior officer in attendance would be the host of the party.It is important to compliment the host on their choice of venue, decor, selection of food, or some other detail.The host should be thanked when you leave.In addition to your verbal thank you, you should also send a handwritten note to the host the next day.
Step 10: A positive attitude is what you should keep.
Whether you have a career goal in mind or just want to show some team spirit, try to go in with a positive attitude.You should try to have fun even if you are shy or hesitant.You should still attend holiday parties even if you don't need new contacts.You never know what will happen.
Step 11: Follow people you meet.
"Ignore the follow up at your own peril" is the number one networking commandments.Exchange cards if you have a good conversation with someone and let them know you are in touch.Send a follow up email to let them know what a pleasure it was to meet them.Write a short email to the senior employee at your company so that you stand out from the crowd.Mention details from your conversations to show that you are paying attention.Say something like, "I really enjoyed our chat at the party."Your point that social media has affected our marketing strategies more this year than in the past stuck with me.Maybe we could meet after the holidays to discuss the company's goals?