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The holiday season is in full swing, and one look at our crowded calendars tells us that the year is quickly coming to a close. For many, this is the best time to reconnect with colleagues, form new business relationships, and engage with your strategic partners.
To help you get the most value out of your holiday event plans, HRG's Event Solutions, Strategic Training Solutions and Allegis Communications team has developed a "recipe for success" for networking.
As you map out your end of year plans, we would like to share with you a few tips to consider from the thousands of contacts and relationships we have developed over the past 20 years.
Holiday Event Planning Starts With You!-
Want to make the most of your networking time? Think about what you are looking to accomplish. Are your colleagues planning to be there? Is there a special guest you would like to meet? What is your "prime-time" to be there? Are you up on trending issues and areas of interest to you and your target audience?
Meet & Greet-
Have you ever struggled to describe what you do, or what your company or organization offers? It takes some practice to perfect your pitch. Your welcome introduction should take no more than 10 seconds. Also, share a highlight about your industry, or your work.
Body Language & Positioning-
Look for groups of 2 or 3 people, approach them with a smile, and find some common ground to cover. Remember why you (and they) are there- to meet people and celebrate the end of the year, as you look forward to a new one!
Breaking the Ice-
Start with small talk, and share things you may have in common. Think of something positive to say about the venue, food or entertainment. Ask if they have any special plans for the holidays, and share your own plans.
Nurture Your Network-
Show you are genuinely interested in what people are saying, pay close attention, play it back- and pass it on!
Keep an Eye on Your "Beverage Barometer"-
If you are planning to consume alcohol, make sure you gauge your intake, or consider a few "mocktails" instead.
One too many is just that - one too many. The extra glass of "truth serum" can be a real career-killer!
Make It Merry!-
Always project a positive attitude, and keep it upbeat. Touch on business, maybe a humorous note of self-deprecation, or a bit of commiseration. Remember- it's a party- not a business meeting!
Leave on a High Note!- Thank everyone for a great year. Celebrate the wins while you review the challenges ahead with a positive message for success in the new year.
We hope these tips and techniques help you grow your network, and you try them out over the holidays.
Looking forward to seeing you in December, or early next year!
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