Networking Strategies Over the Holidays
December 18, 2011, By Chandlee Bryan 0 comments
Conventional wisdom says the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is a terrible time to search for a job, but holiday networking actually can be a great way to build leads—and to get there first in January.
Recent reports from the Department of Labor indicate this December may be the most optimal time to look for jobs in months. "U.S. employers added a net 120,000 jobs in November (according to the US Labor Department), a significant improvement from October's mere 80,000," says job search and career strategist Hannah Morgan of CareerSherpa.net. "This means businesses are hiring now more than they have in months. My recruiting friends corroborate this hiring uptick. Several recruiters I know are scrambling to arrange interviews with companies who are ready, willing and able to hire before the year ends."
Susan Whitcomb, author of the best selling book "Resume Magic," says the holiday spirit can also open doors for referrals and networking connections. "People are often more open and approachable during the holidays," she says. "Greet them with the 'gift' of interest. Be interested in what they are doing, both professionally and personally. Ask about what they enjoy most about the season, how they plan to spend the holidays, what they are looking forward to in the coming year. When it comes time to talk about you, consider sharing your holiday plans, as well. Eventually, shift the conversation to your career goals, with something like 'and on the professional front, the gift I'm giving myself this year is a commitment to uncover career opportunities with organizations that would benefit from my background in _________.'"
While holiday parties can be an opportune time to get ahead, spiked eggnog, rum balls and loud holiday conversation may present obstacles. Here are a few foolproof strategies to make the most of any opportunity.
1. Have a plan
Before darkening any doorway, identify one or more people you want to meet at the event—especially if you are attending as a guest. "Check out the event's attendee list if it has been listed on LinkedIn or other social sites, see who is on the Board of Directors of the hosting organization or just have some company names in mind you will be listening/looking for," says Morgan.
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