How to Make the Most of Networking During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us, and that means invitations to all kinds of business holiday parties. These events provide a great opportunity to network in an environment that is highly conducive to cultivating client relationships, as well as deepening relationships with clients and business associates by getting to know them on a more personal level. But for your networking activities to really pay off, you need to properly follow through with the contacts you make and practice proper etiquette.

Here are some tips for successful networking this holiday season:

• Be sure to send a hand-written personal note to the host thanking them for the invitation and expressing appreciation for the wonderful time you had;
• Set aside time the following day to send holiday cards to the people you met at the event;
• If an R.S.V.P. is requested, always respond, whether you plan to attend or not, and if you tell the host you are attending, be sure to make an appearance. It is terribly rude to R.S.V.P. your attendance and not show up.

A recent post on The Monster Blog, "Four Tips for Holiday Networking," also recommends that you make it a point to attend these events, limit your alcohol intake at these parties, dress appropriately, and mingle (i.e. don't be a wallflower).