Networking covers a lot of bases when it comes to different topics of conversations. Whether you are currently operating a small business storefront on Shopify or seeking a career change, networking is a stepping stone to meeting the right people. When it comes to networking during the holiday season, some rather interesting questions come up. People want to know what you have done to prepare for the holidays and what you are going to during the time off. Like reconnecting with family and friends, a lot of people take this time to reconnect with old co-workers and use it as an excuse to catch up to maintain old connections.
While networking can sometimes be about reminiscing when it comes to reconnecting with people in industries you formerly worked in, there are ways you can overcome these frustrations to make some career changes. Let us take a look at what you can do to strategize your career networking this holiday season:
Don’t sell yourself, tell your story.
You have probably heard it over and over again for many years in workshops and conferences that landing a dream job or career is about “selling yourself”. Whether or not you are embarking on some networking this holiday season, reach out to others with your stories. Compare this to the heartwarming emotions of the holidays and you will begin to understand why stories have a way with moving people that selling cannot. Telling a story for the purpose of networking can have a relevant background to connecting with future employers. Discuss a relevant project you are working on at the moment, or let them know what you have been grateful for during your career this holiday season. There is nothing better than learning fun facts about someone else through an intriguing story.
Speak in the moment, the future is now.
One of the mistakes we often make is placing too much emphasis on their current state. If you are intending for a career change, do not make too much mention of your current job unless it is related to a point you are making about the future. What are you currently doing that is helping you move towards your next job or career? People want to know not about where you currently are but how you are going to get to where you want to be. When we speak of experiences we use them as evidence that we are capable of exhibiting certain skills or traits. However, when it comes to changing your career, it is more about how capable you are of learning new skills in the new future.
The most valuable relationships require work.
Like any other relationships between two people, the fact that these relationships became from holiday networking does not mean it will not take a considerable amount of effort to maintain. Be specific about the stories you select if you know what will appeal to your networking target the most. One of the most valuable things that come from networking is establishing a common connection. Without this common connection, it will be most difficult to continue on this relationship in the future. Finding a common story or experience is a strong cue that a follow-up can be sent in the near future and a sign the other party would not mind speaking to you again. At the same time, listen to what you networking partner has to say and record these details when you can on their business card. This will help trigger memories of this conversation in a couple days when you are able to send some emails to share your new discoveries with them. In your follow-up, make mention of details in your conversation and take interest in what you can offer to do to help what they are working on.
Share common interests.
Sometimes the best networking connections are not established on the basis of common career goals but also interests outside of work. Do not become discouraged when you are unable to establish a firm connection with the first people you meet, like friends, you only need the selective few to really make an impact in your life.
Happy holiday networking!
Photo Credit: Flickr – Mr.TinDC
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