How to Network During the Holidays

Don’t buy into the myth that the holidays are useless when it comes to job searching. It is a great time to get ahead of the competition and possibly even land your career. For reasons why, check out last week’s post: Can You Job Search During the Holidays?

This season is THE prime time to network. Here’s how you can use the holidays to get out there and be known:

Holiday Parties: Of course, of course. This is probably the first thing that comes to every one’s mind when “holiday” and “networking” are put into the same sentence. So, let’s not neglect it.

Go to as many season parties as you’re able. Especially if you’re out of job, make it your job to network during this time of extra merriment. There’s the neighborhood bash, the friend’s cocktail party, your hobby club’s year-end fiesta, the family get-togethers, and your significant other’s work party– it all counts!
Prepare your conversation skills. It doesn’t always come naturally. People may not remember most of what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel. People love to talk about themselves and appreciate sincere listening ears. Learn to ask others about themselves, as well as how to explain your career aspirations succinctly and in an engaging way.
Bring business cards. If you have them, great! If you don’t, now’s your chance to get them ready for your upcoming holiday debut.
Talk to people who could advance your career. Who is your next ticket to that dream job? It’s not always self-evident, so don’t sweat it. Any connection may be a help toward finding you a job. However, if you spend the whole 1 hour and 45 minutes of your holiday party time catching up with your best friend Ally or Allen, chances are you’re missing out on a good networking opportunity. Catch your good friend next Monday night for burgers instead. As you approach each party make a plan for networking. Aim to meet three to five new-to-you people.

Holiday Cards: This is the time of year to send “Season’s Greetings,” which means everyone you know is waiting to happily open a festive card from you. What an opportunity to make known your job search! As you’re sending off your holiday cards include a short upbeat note about your hopes for a job in the new year. “Hope you and you’re family are well. I’m looking forward to finding a job in XYZ field in the near future.” Hand written will get the most attention as it is becoming increasingly rare.

Gift Giving: Tis the season, after all. Similar to holiday cards, this time of year gifts are a given as a way to appreciate the people important to you. Maybe there are people who are key players in your job placement? A well thought out gift may be just the perfect reminder that you are there and you are needing their help to put in a good word for you.

Give Referrals: You need them, and so does everybody else. Now is a good time to give the gift of going out of your way to connect two people you know. Every time we reach out, we’re deepening our relationship, and reminding the other person of our existence. If you can stay fresh on someone’s mind they are more likely to return the favor when the opportunity arises. At the end of the day, one referral that leads to one interview could be all you need to land your career.

Whether you’re a networking pro, or need some improvement, make it your aim to step up your networking game this season!

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