Make the most of Christmas party by networking, not getting drunk

Christmas party season is coming up and if you plan on having a few drinks, you are missing a big career opportunity.

Christmas party season is coming up and if you plan on having a few drinks and fun to see out the year, you are missing a big career opportunity.

Work parties are the perfect time to build networks with people higher up than you.

Take advantage of them being in a more relaxed and friendly environment when everyone is together in one place.

Enjoy the work Christmas party, but don’t overindulge nor miss the opportunity to network in a relaxed and friendly environment.

I’ve done this myself speaking to my bosses and the CEO to ask them what they think of my work and to let them know that I am keen to do more. I have secured contracts and promotions from networking this way. You need to see the Christmas party as a unique opportunity.

HOW TO DO IT

Research the photos and LinkedIn profiles of anyone you know will be there but have not met yet. That way you’ll recognise who you wish to speak to.

If it’s a small party, my tip is to bring a thank you card or small gift for the boss or host.

If it’s a large work party, make sure you introduce yourself to the boss and thank them for the event.

This is a chance for you to express who you are and what you do. Due to the relaxed nature of the party, they are more likely to chat with you.

Remember, a work Christmas party is still work – as well as a perfect opportunity to network. Picture: iStock

This is also the chance to ask about what’s happening with the business next year or if there’s any big projects planned. If they give details and chat about it, you could express “I’d like to work on that” and, hopefully, they’ll invite you to catch up about it after the new year.

Remember, it’s work.

Should you really spend the night networking? Yes, yes, yes because it’s a work event.

If you have close friends at work that you like to party with, catch up with them separately. Don’t waste the opportunity of having colleagues or managers you wouldn’t normally meet in one space and in a comfortable relaxed environment.

A FEW DONT’S

Don’t get too familiar: You still need to understand and respect both the hierarchy and boundaries.

Enjoy yourself but don’t be too familiar nor too drunk at a work Christmas party. Picture: iStock

Don’t get too drunk: You need to be of sound mind for these conversations, so hold that full champagne glass for most of the night.

Don’t hang out too late: You want to show people that you are busy and responsible. You don’t want to be branded the party animal of the office.

Do you have a work query for Amanda? email [e-mail]

The founder of Small Business Women Australia, Amanda is a key mentor and career adviser

Originally published as Make the most of Christmas party by networking, not getting drunk