Holiday Party Networking Do’s and Don’ts

It’s that time of year again when you go to parties, and more parties, and then some more parties. Granted the parties might not be as glamorous as they used to be, but don’t let that deter you when you’re thinking about networking opportunities.

Now, I’m not saying go out there and hard sell your attributes, but let’s look at a few basic networking do’s and don’ts you might want to consider when attending these great affairs.

Do’s

• Bring personalized business cards: You can buy personalized business cards inexpensively from online sources such as VistaPrint.com. Use this opportunity to promote yourself and to use some self-expression. And remember, you can print on both sides if you’d like; so, consider putting your brief profile on the back.
• Prepare your pitch: Know your personal brand so when someone you don’t know asks you what you do, you have a clear, concise answer.
• Dress for the occasion: Stand out in a crowd—in a good way—by dressing professionally. You never know whom you might be meeting at this event, particularly if it’s an event outside our own company.
• Catch up on the latest news: Take a quick scan of today’s highlights, whether that’s on Twitter, your favorite news network, or wherever. Being current in today’s news demonstrates your attention to details outside your work life.
• Create small talk: Have a few topics you can briefly talk about for those uncomfortable “small talk” situations.
• Do some research on the company: If you’ve been invited to another company’s holiday party, do some research on that company so you have some insight into what they do.
• Smile: People gravitate toward others who appear to be in control and having fun. So smile. People will smile back.

Don’ts

• Shy away: Take this chance to get out and meet people. Show your extroverted side. Make small talk.
• Drink too much: You want to be remembered, but not for your over-the-top version of I’ve Got You Babe from the Karaoke sing-along.
• Be unprepared: Just when you think you’re not going to meet anyone interesting, they ask you for a business card. And oops, you don’t even have your company card on you.
• Think anyone cares: Again, you never know whom you might meet at a holiday party. It could be someone from another company who was just dying to meet you. So, come prepared to make a good first impression.
• Gossip: Just because you might have an inside scoop on someone at the company, don’t go into the restroom and blab about it. You never know who could be in there with you.

So, before you go to your next holiday event, rather than thinking about the cocktails and dinner, think about how you can make a great first impression. The connection might not happen that night, but it could be in your future.

Happy Holidays.

Ciao!