Amp up your networking for the holidays.
Use these tip to master the art of networking at your next function.Festive Networking
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chi_Chi_Okezie]Chi Chi Okezie
As we approach the holidays, this is a great time to channel your inner networker. Whether you are hosting a party, doing community service or attending a performance, these events can double as unique networking opportunities. The most important thing is to be ready for a chance encounters. Make sure that you can explain who you are and what you do in 60 seconds or less. Remember to carry extra business cards with you and be networking minded.
Here are a few more tips to extend your networking cheer during the holiday season.
The Social Networker
If you are attending a work gathering or holiday party, keep your networking antennas up. Besides talking about movies, entertainment, travel or current events, also talk about your goals for the upcoming year. In those three or four goals, include a business goal. This can open the dialogue for you to explain your business, products, services, events etc. If you are a student, include in your goals, the desire for getting an internship or job opportunity. If you are a working professional, include in your goals, any professional or social development objectives. Also, find creative ways of making the conversations fun as well as productive for your networking agendas.
The Community Networker
The holidays present perfect opportunities to connect with individuals and organizations from a community outreach standpoint. Use these opportunities to volunteer in a diverse spectrum. In other words, you can volunteer though your church or religious organization as well as through your work, alumni association, local community, school(s) of your children, etc. At these events, get to know the other volunteers and find additional shared interests and overlapping networks.
The Business Networker
Last but not least, make it point to connect with your colleagues, customers, clients, co-workers, etc. Reaching out for a coffee, follow up or even inviting others to events are excellent ways to network. Be sincere and make sure that the connection is beneficial for both parties. At these meet ups make sure to be professional as well as personable. Keep the intention of strengthening and developing the relationship both socially and from a business standpoint.
Use these tips and tactics to grow your connections and influences during the holiday. As you are social, still remain business minded seeking out additional opportunities or looking to help others. Once again, these are excellent ways of growing your networking agendas.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Festive-Networking&id=8147823] Festive Networking
