We are approaching the time of year for Christmas parties, which, for you, need not be merely an opportunity to have fun and enjoy good food and drink, but also an opportunity to build business relationships. While this doesn’t necessarily mean that you should start arranging business meetings at the parties themselves, you can lay the groundwork for future negotiations. It is enough to ask the people to get in touch with you later, then carry on enjoying yourself. However, if you want to be successful in building contacts, avoid making the following errors, as listed by the website US News.
You don’t make eye contact with people
This is an elementary mistake. Looking directly into a person’s eyes is the most direct way of connecting with someone you don’t know. Obviously, you can’t look for too long.
You don’t know when to draw back
You can’t expect everyone you talk to to want to talk to you in return. If you notice that the other person is not making eye contact, playing with their mobile or showing other signs of lack of interest, don’t force yourself on them.
You don’t know how to ask questions
Don’t ask questions that only require one-word answers. It’s better to use words like how, who, what or where, and mainly to listen carefully.
You don’t know how to introduce your friends
When you introduce someone, don’t give only their name. Briefly describe where they’re from and what they do so as to avoid an awkward silence where no-one knows what to say.
You’re too intrusive
When you’re at a party, no-one’s interested in someone who does the rounds, giving out their business card and asks them, unbidden, how they can help them with their careers or business matters.
You are not prepared
Successful networking is the result of careful preparation. Find out in advance who’s coming to a party and prepare yourself for who you want to meet.
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