The holidays are a great time of year to relax, interact with others, and plan for the new year. Take advantage of this time to be strategic so you can enhance your relationships. Below are a few ways that you can maximize your holiday networking.
Attend Holiday Parties
During the holidays, many people host parties. Take advantage of these gatherings to interact with many people in a social environment. Your clients, partners, friends, and family will invite you. You never know who you will meet. At the same time, these gatherings are a great way to build up your existing relationships.
Set Up Face to Face Meetings
Meeting with people in person is an important relationship building strategy. Too many times we get stuck behind our computer and mostly communicate via email or social media. Many people slow down during the holidays so find a time to meet with some of your contacts for coffee, lunch, or drinks. By doing so, you will further enhance your existing relationships.
Plan for the New Year
Set some relationship building plans for the new year. Put together a strategy about who you want to meet and how you want to meet them. Figure out which events you want to attend and if you want to get more involved with any organizations. Lay out some goals so you can start planning.
Work on Your Personal Brand
Figure out how you can elevate your personal brand, which is important for relationship building. Your brand is how people perceive you in the business community. Evaluate your social media activity and figure out what has been working and what you could do better. Make a plan to speak more and to connect more with the right people. You want people to remember you for your brand.
What other tips do you suggest?