5 Networking Tips to Use Throughout 2015
With the holiday season behind us, doctor life is finally beginning to be normal again, website like this but we all have those weekly or monthly work events, more about trips and meetings. For many, these are the nights to let loose and kick your feet up. Although it might be tempting to have a few glasses of champagne or a cocktail why not use these nights and your potential exposure to new people to gain a few contacts who could really help make 2015 your best year yet? These 5 networking tips will help you kick off the new year with some new additions to your rolodex.
1. Give a Compliment
Need to break the ice? What better way to do so than to offer a genuine compliment? Everyone loves hearing that the outfit they pored over for days or their Pinterest-worthy hairstyle turned out to be a success. Compliments can show others that you come in peace. It’s a great way to encourage them to let their guard down, just enough to allow for a transition to other conversational topics. Just remember to be sincere!
2. Hang by the Bar
Libations are the key ingredient to the magical vibe of any celebration. Every single person will make their way to the bar at one point or another, even if their endgame is simply to come away with a sparkling water. By positioning yourself near the bar area, you will have the opportunity to get an overview of everyone in attendance and even gain some face time, if you so choose. Just be careful not to use this proximity to the booze as an excuse to over indulge.
3. Put Your Phone Away
Many of us are so busy throughout the year that we’d be hard pressed to name a single occasion where we are willing to abandon our smart phones. What we often fail to realize is that our phones tend to hold us back in social situations. Whether answering emails, catching up on our Twitter feed or even just trying to look busy, keeping our eyes glued to that glowing screen will make us look unapproachable and disinterested in the party happening around us. Limit phone use to sporadic glances, so worthwhile connections aren’t missed.
4. How Do You Know the Host?
Whether you are spending the evening with new friends or heading to a company hosted soiree, every person on the guest list will have one thing in common: a connection to the host. Even if you find yourself in a room full of strangers, this common thread will be a unifying factor. It’s so much easier to strike up a conversation when you already know you’ll have something to talk about, so don’t be afraid to break out a “way back when” anecdote about yourself and the host to get the dialogue going. Nothing too embarrassing, though! You could be talking to an important client or colleague.
5. Have Fun!
This one is a no brainer! People who are dancing or laughing are always more approachable. Not to mention, that fun loving energy is contagious! When you light up a room, it’s impossible for others not to notice and they will be drawn to you. Loosen up a bit, be yourself and just have a great time!