Here are some quick holiday networking tips on how to “work the room” while socializing and celebrating!
KEEP IT LIGHT: HOLIDAY NETWORKING TIPS THAT WORK
Probably not the best time to get into heavy conversations about life insurance, the economy, or anything else pressing. It is the time to reflect on the year and discuss possibilities for the New Year. Keep it light, fun, and positive.
KNOW WHO WILL BE THERE
If you can. Then consider who you want to meet? Who to reconnect with? Do you need to refresh your memory? (A great way to use LinkedIn!) The more you know the better you can prepare, and the more confident you will feel.
HAVE YOUR TOOLS OF THE TRADE
Business cards (yes, still a thing!), a couple of throw away pens, index cards (so you can jot things down), breath mints, a name tag (worn on the right if possible so it’s in eyeshot upon shaking hands), and some holiday cheer! Try to stay off your phone and challenge yourself to listen and learn more from those you meet.
INITIATE CONVERSATIONS
Start a conversation rather than waiting for someone to come over and meet you. When you initiate a conversation, you can set a nice tone while showing your smarts and confidence. Also, if you can make someone standing alone feel more comfortable, great!
ASK QUESTIONS
The best way to get a great conversation going is to ask questions. Lots of them! Be interested in learning. How would you sum up your year? How did your business change this year? What type of work do you do? Any big plans for the holidays? Who else do you know here? Prepare some questions ahead of time!
END CONVERSATIONS POLITELY
When you want to end a conversation say something like, “It was great getting the chance to chat and celebrate, and I look forward to seeing you later (or again soon). Let me know if I can help with an intro or support you this evening. Have a great holiday!” Or offer to follow up if appropriate.
USE YOUR ELEVATOR SPEECH
If you can have a prepared (not rehearsed) statement about what you do, who you help, what you know, and what you want, you might meet someone that can help you. If you’re not prepared with such a statement, you may never know.
OFFER TO HELP
You won’t hit it off with everyone. But when you do, it’s always great to offer help. That’s what networking is all about! By offering help to others they may return the favor. Just like the hokey pokey, that’s what it’s all about!
FOLLOW UP
Nothing will ever develop without a follow up conversation. Certainly, send an email or connect on social. If you made a promise, live up to your promise over the next 24 hours or so. Be reliable and true to your word. That leaves a great impression. Remember, busy people get things done!
STAYING IN TOUCH AFTER HOLIDAY NETWORKING EVENTS
Discuss together what your strategy will be to stay connected!
The big payoff from businessnetworking doesn’t usually happen immediately. It takes time and work. Remember, it’s net-work!
Holiday networking tips like these help you build relationships that don’t end when the season does. It’s about turning great conversations into connections that actually last.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY NETWORKING TIPS?
Ready to see how Knock Out Networking can help you and your sales team generate more prospects, more referrals, and more business? If you’re interested in booking Michael Goldberg to speak, train, or coach around networking, referrals, and recruiting goals, contact us at Info@KOnetworking.com
