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Health & Fitness

CSI: Making the Holidays 'Net'Work For You

Excellent tips for comfortable networking during holiday events.

By Colleen's Contributor, Jerilyn Willin, Career Strategies Investigator

Holiday Networking Reminders

Networking and building/refreshing relationships are critical to business success. It is also essential if you are in the job market. For many folks, networking is not easy. Making small talk withstrangers, smoothly delivering your “elevator” speech, and asking questions in hopes of learning about the person you are talking to can be nightmarish.

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The holidays, with all their year-end celebrations, corporate events and parties can present the reluctant networker with way too many networking opportunities. What can make this time of year easier?

Here are some ideas:

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  • Get to events early. As a reluctant networker, I used to arrive at events late. The problem I encountered was that everyone was already in conversation and it was hard to insert myself into an already-formed group. By arriving early, you can begin to chat with folks before they hook up in conversations with someone else.

 

  • Wear something that makes you feel good. How you feel about yourself can reflect in your walk, your approach to people, the “vibes” you give out. What you wear also sends out a non-verbal first impression.

 

  • Wondering how to start a conversation? Ask open-ended questions to get the other person talking. Some suggestions: what prompted you to come to this event/meeting? What benefits have you found in being a part of this group/association/club? What is is the most intriguing thing about working in the field of _____?

 

  • Finally, carve out time to read/review one of the best networking books out there, Lillian D. Bjorseth’sBreakthrough Networking: Building Relationships That Last.  When I first read this book, Bjorseth’s insights, ideas, and techniques helped me begin to enjoy networking. Who knew it could be fun? For those setting up networking events, Breakthrough Networking offers a variety of activities that will help you help your guests feel more at ease.

 

If time does not permit a total read right now, visit my website and read a review in the “A Coach’s (re)View” Archives. The review looks at a number of her suggestions.

The holidays are a terrific time to meet new people, renew old acquaintances, and put feelers out for that next position. Now…go mingle!

Lillian’s book is available from her website, and from amazon.com.

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