It’s that time of year again, when we meet and greet our friends, family and associates at parties and gatherings all over town to celebrate the holidays. What a perfect opportunity for getting the word out that you’re seeking that next new opportunity, or are in career transition.
We’ve all heard that the best way to land that new position we seek is through networking, and the holidays are the perfect time to leverage these events that are really nothing more than networking events wrapped in a holiday theme — not to mention everyone is in a good mood.
Our natural instinct is to tell everyone how “great” things are going for us, and how wonderful life is, but if that’s not the case I say that honesty is the best policy. It’s not what you say, but “how” you say it that will make the biggest impression. Keep it brief and upbeat and smile.
This holiday season, keep the following in mind to boost the success of your job search.
• Don’t be afraid to go to as many events as you can, and meet and greet everyone.
• Go early and stay late, maybe even help set up or clean up afterward (demonstrates your work ethic).
• Rehearse what you’ll tell people and how you’d appreciate their help and need it.
• Be confident and excited about utilizing your skills and talents with a new challenge.
• Target key contacts to follow up with, and ask for some of their time in the near future.
• Be inquisitive about helping them and don’t make it all about you.
• Keep your comments brief, and don’t monopolize one person’s time. Work the room.
• Check your dress, hygiene and attitude before going. Make sure they’re all impeccable.
Finally, believe that good things will happen for you, and they will. The magic of the Christmas season will work in your favor, if you only believe!