It’s that time of the year again when we all start thinking about the New Year that’s about to arrive. With new opportunities on the horizon, it’s also important to think about how to wrap up the current year and go into the new one strong and ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. With all that awaiting, it’s the perfect time to get in some year-end networking, a great way to set the stage for 2017 – don’t you agree? Whether you’re working on building your business, you’re starting something completely new, you’re looking to make a major career change – this is the time to build the foundation. Here’s a look at a few great networking tips for the end of the year that will leave you ready to tackle 2017 with your best foot forward.
Networking Tips for the End of the Year
Send out holiday cards. Even though that may seem like something you should only do for friends and family, it’s not! It’s a great excuse for making an imprint in someone’s mind, reminding them that you should stay connected – and, it’s a pretty easy way to accomplish that – with a friendly and fun holiday card.
Give the gift of a phone call. Sometimes the best way to stay in touch with someone and to let them know you’re thinking of them, is simply to dial the phone. You can connect as friends, but also move the conversation from a simple check in to hopes, goals and best wishes for the New Year. Even if the call is all business, it’s a great reminder that you’re looking to network and you’re working to grow your business relationship. Don’t underestimate the power of a quick call.
Gift a product with a holiday wish. Sending out little gifts to clients, potential clients or even your whole networking list, is an investment you will not regret. If you have a new and wonderful product to share, this is a great way to get it out there and if your business is more service-based, find a small gift or token representative of that service and share away. Send a quick holiday note for best wishes in the New Year with a promise to be in touch once the holidays have passed. This is a great way to plant the seed for more business in the months to come.
Host a holiday lunch, brunch or small cocktail party. If you really want to get all of your clients and potential clients all in one room, hosting a holiday gathering is a great way to get it done. Ask your clients to invite a friend or colleague – a great way for you to immediately expand your network. Simply chat and enjoy the party, thanking clients for their business and giving new connections the opportunity to work with you in the New Year.
Sit down with your calendar and schedule follow-up conversations and efforts after the New Year. Look as far out as February to spend some time reconnecting with anyone you reached out to during the holiday season. Send email follow-ups, hop on the phone and set up some lunches to simply “continue the conversation” that you started during the holiday season.
Are you working your year-end holiday networking routine? It’s a great time of year to get those last minute connections in!
