The Dos And Don’ts Of Holiday Networking

The holidays are upon us, which means there are endless upcoming parties, events and networking galore! While the holidays can be the best time of year for networking, they can also provide significant challenges for those eager job seekers – especially for those designers whose creative juices are overflowing with holiday inspiration. In order to properly leverage your network and begin building new ones for 2013, the staffing experts at Aquent have provided a list of the dos and don’ts of holiday networking.
Do bring a creative business card. Show off your design/marketing skills with a creative business card that will leave an impression.
Don’t specifically mention that you’re looking for a job unless someone asks you. Then casually let them know you’re looking for new opportunities in the new year.
Don’t force it. If someone mentions a possible job opportunity, ask for a business card.
Do show your personable side. If you’re a guest to a holiday party, have a good time mingling and avoid treating it like a corporate networking event.
Do some 1:1 informal networking with connections you’ve made throughout the year; people may have more available time in weeks around the holidays.
Do search for local industry events; tap local staffing agencies, associations, or networking sites for upcoming events around your city.
Do conduct research prior to attending an event. Be up-to-date on the guest list and decide who you want to meet, and with whom a relationship would be mutually beneficial.
Don’t forget to update your online portfolio – although meeting face-to-face is crucial, often times your online presence helps make a long-lasting impression.
Do prepare for the event; write out three to five questions that are substantial enough to spur conversation with new professional connections. Without forcing it, feel free to mention your most recent creative project.
Do follow up with new contacts within 24-48 hours. If sending a LinkedIn invitation, be sure to customize with something personal about your conversation.
The holidays are a great time to participate in the abundance of networking events taking place all around. Use these tips to smartly navigate your events and you’re bound to build some great new business relationships for 2013.
For more than 10 years, Mollie Nothnagel has worked in every corner of digital marketing and web project management. This experience is what she taps into when defining your needs across the marketing communications, event planning, and design and content development spaces. She knows what it takes to be successful in these business areas, which is why her talent network is comprised of professionals who can thrive in them. Mollie’s intuitive acumen at matching talent with the desired hard and soft skills to client projects ensures time and cost savings, as well as your satisfaction. As a relationship builder for both clients and talent, Mollie is a valuable staffing partner for your business needs.