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Holiday Networking Tips for 2007
The holidays are here and it is one of the BEST times of the year to find a job. Who knew that attending holiday parties and family gatherings could be ripe with opportunities to land a job; check that - a dream job? Well it is!
Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you plan for the holidays ahead.
Tip #1 - Send Holiday Greetings
During the relationship building process, it is important to find ways to continually connect with others. The holidays are a great way to reach out to people by sending a holiday greeting. By sending a greeting, you are showing individuals in your network that you are thinking about them.
Tip #2 - Accept Hospitality
People will be in a more festive mood this time of the year so they may offer you sweets or other holiday staples. As at any time of year, it is always good advice to accept people's hospitality. By accepting people's generosity, you are showing them respect and will make them feel like they are doing something nice.
Tip #3 - Hostess Gift
If you are going to someone's home for a party, bringing a gift for the host or hostess is a nice gesture that will show your thoughtfulness and perhaps may earn you some brownie points. Seriously though, it's traditional to do this but not everyone will. Be a gracious guest and bring a bottle of wine, a poinsettia plant, or Christmas floral arrangement that will add to the party decor.
Tip #4 - Don't Drink Too Much
With festivities comes drinking and good times. It is okay to enjoy yourself but only in moderation. Treat the holidays like any other time of the year by showing good behavior. Don't go overboard with alcohol because you still need to maintain your professionalism and composure.
Tip #5 - Meet & Mingle
Don't be a wallflower. Make it a point to visit with lots of people. If you see someone by themselves, help them out and go speak to them. You may forge a valuable alliance.
When the opportunity arises, and it will, be ready to give your 60 second commercial about your career plans. "I recently got my degree from WTAMU in business and am looking for an opportunity to work in the Human Resources field. I interned for a semester in HR and know that my ability to quickly develop rapport with others is effective when interviewing job applicants. I enjoy traveling, which I discovered is necessary in some HR offices, etc."
Have this written out and practiced so it is conversational and natural. Make sure you've got a stack of business cards in your top pocket, or in a handy place in your handbag.
Tip #6- Host Your Own Party
While many businesses will hold parties during the holidays, people may want a nice break from the corporate parties. Therefore, host your own holiday party either at your house, a restaurant, or party facility. Hosting your own party is a great way to reconnect and keep yourself in front of individuals.
Tip #7 - Complaints
Remember, this is supposed to be a fun occasion. Don't rag on the food, service, venue, company, drinks etc. Pretend you're enjoying yourself and guess what, you just might.
Tip #8 - Thank-You Note
Regardless of whether or not you had fun, you received a free meal, drinks, and entertainment. This is reason enough to send a gracious thank-you note that expresses your gratitude for a "wonderful" party. Someone took the time, effort, and money to throw the party and this should be acknowledged.
Your dream job is waiting for you at the next holiday party. What better gift could you ask for than landing your dream job over the holidays?
Happy job hunting and happy holidays from all of us in Career & Counseling Services.
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