December Networking is a vital strategy for career and business growth. The holiday season offers unique opportunities to leverage the festive atmosphere and natural opportunities for connection.

Advantages of Networking in December and During Holidays

Festive Atmosphere Encourages Conversations

People are generally in good spirits this time of year and are typically more open to casual interactions. Networking may feel less formal, making connections easier.

Natural Opportunities for Networking

Holiday parties, community events, and professional gatherings apprear on our calendars naturally. There are virtual events, online holiday meet-ups, and in-person gatherings. Wishing someone a happy holiday is always a great touchpoint to connect or reconnect as a conversation starter.

Less Competition

Many job and client seekers may pause their efforts during the holidays, but the holidays are the best time to network your way to a new job. By staying active this time of year, you will be fresh in someone’s mind and stand out to employers and potential clients who are still active.

A Time of Reflection and Planning

Companies and individuals often evaluate future goals in December and prepare for new budgets when the new year starts. December networking presents an excellent opportunity to position yourself for upcoming opportunities.

Networking Strategies for the Holiday Season

Take Advantage of Holiday Events

Attend in-person or virtual gatherings as time permits. Bring business or networking cards and ensure your LinkedIn profile is updated and optimized with the right keywords and achievements.

Rekindle Existing Connections

Send personalized holiday greetings to former colleagues and contacts. Share updates or articles of interest as an informational gift, just to renew a connection.

Leverage Social Media and Online Platforms

Engage in professional holiday discussions on LinkedIn or industry forums. Update your profiles and showcase recent achievements. If you have been too busy to stay on top of trends, there are always workshops you can attend to learn what’s new.

Use the Holidays as a Soft Entry

Reach out with gratitude and good wishes rather than a direct pitch. Build rapport that can lead to opportunities in the New Year.

Overcoming Common Concerns

Concern: “People Are Too Busy”

Reframe your thinking that the holiday season often slows down in the workplace. It’s  good that this month gives individuals more time to connect. Ensure you approach networking with a positive mindset.

Concern: “Networking Feels Pushy During the Holidays”

Approach December’s networking with a positive and authentic focus on relationship-building.

Benefits of Holiday Networking

Builds Momentum for the New Year

Lay the groundwork for January opportunities. Be strategic for early positioning for year-end hiring pushes and project planning.

Strengthens Relationships

December networking keeps you top-of-mind for future opportunities and shows initiative and dedication to career or business growth.

Opens Unexpected Doors

Engage in casual conversations, leading to job leads or client referrals. You may have heard that up to 80% of jobs are found via networking. People hire people, not bots. Take advantage of chance encounters during holiday activities, which can become valuable connections.

Conclusion

December networking during the holiday season is a strategic way to stand out and gain an edge. By building relationships, showing gratitude, and engaging meaningfully, job and client seekers can turn the festive season into an opportunity-rich time.

Did you read the article from last week? Gratitude, Receiving, and Giving on LinkedIn

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Check out our Nonprofit Events Quick List Page for More

• Fri Dec 6 – Last day to take advantage of our Black Friday special!
• Fri Dec 6 – Frequency of Excellence
• Mon Dec 9 – Career Success Group Job Seeker Accountability & Networking
• Mon Dec 9 – What’s Your Shtick? Personal Branding On & Off LinkedIn
• Mon Dec 9 – LinkedIn Profile Revews
• Tue Dec 10 – LGBTQ+ OUTstanding Careers Group™
• Tue Dec 10 – Follow Up Strategies That Will Get More Clients and Close More Sales
• Wed Dec 11 – Careerland Q&A LinkedIn Audio for the Game of Life
• Thu Dec 12 – Virtual Jobseeker Support Group
• Fri Dec 13 – Tips to Optimize Your Resume
• Fri Dec 13 – Leveraging Networking Opportunities to Achieve Career Goals per a Veteran
• Mon Dec 16 – How to Gain Customers with a LinkedIn Company Page
• Tues Dec 17 – Lehigh Valley Business Executives Networking Group (BENG) meeting
• Tues Dec 17 – Nosh & Network BYOB Holiday Social in Malvern
• Thu Dec 19 – Recruiter on Call with Jobs LinkedIn Audio
• Thu Dec 19 – Quantifying Accomplishments – Best Practices