By Win Sheffield
A client recently contacted me about how to talk about herself at holiday parties. She is getting back into the workforce after taking time off for her kids and wants to make the upcoming holiday parties, professional and social, worthwhile. I thought the topic might be of broader interest.
The key is that they see you as someone who needs information more than someone who needs a job. They know that ultimately you want to be settled in a new position. You don't need to spell it out. By engaging them and seeking information you will seem more like a person who is carefully considering options.
According to The New York City chief economist, every month, 50,000 people get new jobs in New York City. Throughout the country it is about 3 million to 4 million a month. By leveraging your contacts, you can join their ranks. It may be harder to get a job these days, but with all those people succeeding, why shouldn't you be one of them?
The primary rule of holiday networking is to remain upbeat, nothing too serious. People are interested in hearing about something you enjoy. You can't throw a brick these days without hitting someone willing to talk about how bad the economy is. Better to follow some simple guidelines.
1. Be specific
2. Stand for something
3. Engage them
4. What's next?
1. Be specific
The reason to be specific is what whatever you are specific about is what people will remember about you - and tell others. If you would be happy doing nearly anything, please, please don't tell anyone! No one will believe you and it will make you sound weak. Make a list for yourself of 10, or 100, of your most attractive options; mention two to whoever you are speaking to. You can pick a different two for each person.
Try-
"My team and I recently designed a new logo for XYZ Enterprises. We were worried in the beginning because their old logo . . ."
"When I was doing more direct client work, I really enjoyed the appreciation and unexpected moments with clients. I remember one young woman when she was discharged . . ."
"I am really interested in the challenges of investing in the health care sector with everything changing the way it is. I am also wondering about other industries where I might apply my science background."
2. Stand for something
You may have no real idea what you want or where you are heading. Many people don't. Let the fact that you are curious to learn something be enough. People are interested in hearing about something that interests you.
Try-
"I don't know {a thing/too much} and am {interested in/curious about} {your subject matter, e.g., purchasing, going to work for a client, something involving more/fewer people} . . ."
"I am really happy to be managing the after-school programs for the district. I also find I am pulled to get back in the classroom . . ."
"One of the things I have always liked is to really dive into the data. When I was at ABC Co., I was given an assignment to . . ."
3. Engage them
Watch for their interest. Ask them about their experience. If they get overly involved or if the conversation becomes too serious for the occasion, you can say: "All much too serious to talk about at a party! Let's get together after the holidays."
Try-
"I have been watching senior managers to see what I can learn about {your desired function}. I have seen {skills that interest you} and I have noticed that the successful ones . . . Would you agree?"
"You may remember that our company was bought out last year and I have a new boss. While we are getting used to each other, I thought I could add to my reputation by developing a new design concept for. . ." What's your experience dealing with a new boss?"
4. What's next?
Especially if this is a social gathering and even for a professional event, do not presume that you can ask anything you want. What you can ask depends on the relationship you have developed. Ask for something easy. Information is a good place to start. If you have given them the impression that you will not be bothering their network about a job, they may pass you along to someone.
Try-
"Would it be OK if I checked back with you in a month or so? {My explorations are taking me in lots of new directions and I would be interested in your input. /I am talking to a lot of interesting people and would love to get your reaction.}"
"I would be grateful if you hear of any developments in {your interest}, if you could let me know. "
"If you hear of anyone who is experimenting in new ways of approaching {your interest}, let me know, would you? Here, let me give you my card."
"I am scratching my head to find more about how marketing in a chemical company works. Could I talk to that tech guy you mentioned? "
And never forget the classic exit line-
"This has been a great conversation. I would love to give you a call sometime and take you out for coffee/lunch/drinks so we could talk further."
Happy Networking!
All the best for Christmas, Chanukah and the New Year,
Win Sheffield
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