This is the time of year people get together with friends, family and co-workers as well as meeting new people - all who are great resources for networking. It doesn't matter the event, use your networking skills to branch out and develop new connections that can advance your job search strategies. How can you get attention?Volunteer: During the holiday season, there are lots of opportunities to help out. Find a local organization that needs people to organize, deliver, set up or work events. Your favorite charity or cause, hospitals, senior centers - just look on line or in your newspaper's calendar section for upcoming events and who needs help. It's easier to talk to people who are like-minded and people are usually in a receptive mood while volunteering because they are doing good for someone. Show interest in others: A great networking skill to have or to develop. It can really make a difference in the results you get. People are flattered when you listen to what interests them and ask questions that get them to talk about themselves, their work, even their hobbies. It's a great ice-breaker too. If something they mention is of particular interest to you, ask if you can get together with them at a future time to discuss it. (You don't want to monopolize their time.)Maximize your efforts: Spend some time with several attendees at a party or event with the idea of walking away with a couple of referrals, informational meetings or suggestions for your job search. Focusing on one person can be less than productive and trying to speak with too many people may not give you time to extract the best information. Work the room alone. Even if you came with someone, agree to meet up later so you can approach people and get some one-on-one time. Agree to meet up at a later time. It's easier to engage one person at a time.Follow up: Once you've made that precious connection to another person, remember to keep it going by following up. Make the call, send the e-mail or write them a note. If you promised to do something, do it. If you have information for them, make sure you send it along. Offer an invitation to another event the person might enjoy or just suggest coffee or lunch to further the relationship. Keep the momentum going. So, spruce up your outfit and your elevator pitch and get ready to let people know "what's new with you." Be positive about your job search, your qualifications and where you want to go next. Happy networking!
