The holidays give you a natural reason to reach out. Here’s how to network in a way that feels warm, real, and never salesy.
Networking tools like LinkedIn only work if they help you make authentic connections. The holiday season is a great time to practice. People are celebrating, catching up and open to a friendly hello. Here’s how to do it your way.
Start with a Real Conversation
I recommend having a one-to-one conversation with everyone you connect with on LinkedIn.
When someone invites you to connect, don’t just click accept. Write them a private note, too.
- Don’t remember them? Say so, with a smile. Ask how you know each other.
- Meeting for the first time? Ask them to tell you more about themselves. What made them reach out now?
Once you’re connected, you have an easy way to stay in touch through private messages. This is not about public posting, although you can do that too.
Use the Season to Say Hello
The holidays are a perfect excuse to check in. Keep it simple and kind.
- See that someone has a new job, a promotion or a work anniversary? Send a note of congratulations.
- Notice a name change? Someone may have gotten married, or life may have shifted. Ask about it.
- See that someone moved to a new part of the country? Ask how they like it.
Do this over time and you build close, tight-knit relationships. That’s what networking is really about.
Invite, Don’t Pitch
Once you’ve built a relationship and you know someone is interested in what you do, invite them to talk. I literally use the word invite.
Think of it like inviting a friend over for a Super Bowl party or a Sunday barbecue. You share what it is, when it would be and how it would work. You don’t say it all at once. You just ask if they’re interested.
Keep Holiday Parties Light
Maybe you’re at a holiday party and don’t want to talk shop. That’s fine. Exchange business cards and say, “Let’s talk on Monday. I’ll set up a consultation for you.”
Then enjoy the party.
Say “I Can Help You with That”
This is one of my favorite sentences. You don’t have to explain how you’ll help. Just say, “I can help you with that,” if they’re interested.
When you say it from a genuine human place, people feel it. It doesn’t sound annoying or salesy. It sounds like you care, because you do.
Networking Should Feel Good
The best networking creates connections that feel good to both people. Try it this season. You may be surprised how good it feels.
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