Ask the Expert – Networking During the Holidays

Question: Every year, we have an office party in late December and I dread having to go the event because the conversations are always about work and is not a lot of fun. Can you please give me any pointers of how I can either enjoy the party or come up with a good excuse not to attend?

Answer: While many office parties can be “less fun” as you might want it to be, it sounds like you may be talking with the same people each year. My suggestion would be that you choose certain key executives in your company and make a point to research them so you know their interests. Make a point to seek them out and make this an opportunity for you to be known by them. This does not mean that you are going to brag about yourself, but rather make a point to speak about accomplishments they made during the year and how they positively impacted the business. Make sure that you speak genuinely to them and do not make it sound fake. You may also get the opportunity to later speak about your position and how your efforts affect the company. So rather than thinking of this as just another office party, think of it as a way to advance yourself through targeted networking with the senior executives of your firm.

Question: There are some holiday parties coming up that are sponsored by industry organizations, but do not have many customers who attend. Do you really think it is important for me to attend such events?

Answer: Your personal reputation in your industry is something you need to continue to grow by widening the base of people who know you. I can tell you from my own past experience that networking with my industry colleagues, many of which are my competitors, has always proved to be valuable. In many instances my competitors have referred business to me that they could not handle or on occasion felt nervous knowing I was competing for the same piece of business. Your personal reputation is something that will stay with you forever, so practice your own personal brand and talk with everyone that you can.

Question: I lost my job because my company lost a key client that was a major part of our income. Is this the best time of year to start looking for a new position or should I wait until January to start my job search?

Answer: Believe it or not December is one of the best months to look for a new position. Use the many holiday parties that occur during this time to network with your colleagues and past competitors and do not be shy about telling them about your situation and that you are available right now. Make a point at these parties to drastically limit the amount of food and beverage you consume. People who may know you are out of work will watch you at an event and make judgments about your abilities based on your behavior. If you appear to be very much in control you will be regarded far higher than the one who decides to also have fun at the event. Remember this is a business opportunity at these events and you need to make as many contacts as possible in a way that people will have a positive experience having met or spoken with you.