Dear Samuel,
Our annual office party is coming up, and I’m dreading it. I’m even thinking of skipping it this year, because I don’t see the point.
What do you think?
Pointless in Point Pleasant
Dear Pointless,
Don’t skip the party.
Not only should you attend, but you should bring your smile and good cheer too. You should use this gathering as an opportunity NOT to discuss work, and connect personally with the people that work with you and for you.
I’m not asking you to fake a smile. I’m asking you to find happiness and pleasure in getting together with other people. Have a drink (not too many). Wish people an enjoyable holiday season. Inquire as to what their plans are for the holidays. Share your plans with them. If you’re not sure what to talk about when you’re not talking about work, ask questions. Listen. Be sincere.
This is a unique opportunity to build relationships with the people that work with you. Acting human at your company’s party can pay dividends throughout the year.
You’ll be glad you did.
Wishing you and yours the best of the holiday season.
Samuel
If you’d like to ask Samuel a question, click here.
Timely question, Samuel!
I had a coaching session with a client last week … a self-professed “horrible” networker. It probably isn’t high on the list of things most CFOs enjoy doing. But, it is a NECESSARY and CRITICAL career management strategy.
That said, Christmas is the best time to work on your networking skills because the pressure is off. It’s usually a laid-back, festive, and happy environment and with a couple of well-crafted questions – as you’ve suggested – people will just begin talking about themselves.
It’s also a great way to reconnect with people you want in your circle of influence (COI) with the goal of intentionally targeting them for a one-on-one in 2012.
A book I’ve suggested before, and will again, truly illuminates the power of networking today … “33 Million People in the Room.” http://amzn.to/pErkuZ
Merry Christmas!
Cindy
Cindy,
Thanks for your input on the subject.
When people think about networking, they think it is something that only needs to be done outside of their current organization. Nothing can be further from the truth.
Building relationships and network doesn’t have a border or boundary. It needs to be broad, but focused.
A CFO must keep in mind that building their brand starts at the edge of their desk.
Samuel
Dear Cindy. Great opportunity to learn about your co-workers you don’t normally have time at work to engage with. But your circle of influence comment was so right on. The more listening you do the better the outcome. But two two things are extremely important at the C-level
1. Don’t have but one drink. 2. Be one of the first people to leave but not before the CEO. Over the years I have seen several people end their careers at these parties. ” loose lips sink ships”
Happy Holidays. JD