With the holidays finally here, many people are desperately trying to wrap up 2013 and get a head-start on the new year. December can certainly be a stressful month, but it’s important to think about ways in which you can use the holiday season to your advantage from a networking standpoint. You may feel pressured to finish the year’s paperwork and hit the reset button, but you shouldn’t overlook how you can use the remaining days of the year to further your career and nourish your network.

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Networking During the Holidays

Even though everyone is busy with family and relatives, this is actually a great time to be networking in Austin. Here are a few ways in which you can spread some holiday cheer while working on your network at the same time.

1. Don’t Pass on Attending Holiday Parties

While some people look forward to holiday parties each year, others abhor them. Sure, they can be awkward every once in a while, but there’s no denying the fact that they can be excellent for building a network. Holiday parties (especially those which are business-related) basically get a variety of different people with like-minded interests into the same room. Unlike other types of networking events, though, there’s usually no agenda other than to have a good time. This laid-back atmosphere is ideal for striking up a casual conversation with someone who might prove to be a good addition to your network. Just be yourself, and don’t hesitate to bring up business after a period of light discussion.

2. Get Those Greeting Cards Out!

If you haven’t yet, now’s the time to finally get those greeting cards out the door to everyone in your network. It’s not uncommon these days to use email for these purposes, but email simply doesn’t compare to getting a physical greeting card in the mail. Depending upon who you’re sending cards to, you might even want to consider including a little gift. Being generous during the holidays can go a long way, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to show your gratitude to those who are already a part of your network.

3. Host Your Own Holiday Event

Even if you end up getting burnt-out by going to holiday party after holiday party this month, it can be very beneficial to host your very own event. Throwing a holiday-themed event will not only help to gain more visibility for yourself, but it’s an excellent way to impress people. In addition, throwing your own party will allow those who are already in your network to intermingle with those who may not yet be. Try to invite as diverse a group of people as possible, and don’t hesitate to ask them to RSVP so you have a good idea as to who might end up showing.

So don’t let the stress of the holidays get you down. While you’re hoping from one holiday party to another, consider dropping in at a Networking Austin meeting and starting 2014 on the right foot!

Image Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lecates/330611653/

Original Source: https://www.networkingaustin.com/networking-austin/taking-advantage-of-the-holiday-season-to-further-your-networking-efforts

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