Work on It Wednesday: Networking your Way Through the Holidays
By: Emily Young MA ‘16
Staying in touch with previous bosses, colleagues, teachers, and mentors via a holiday card/email is a subtle yet highly effective form of networking. It helps to keep you top-of-mind just in case Santa Claus didn’t bring you a nice shiny internship/job for Christmas.
Five Tips to an Effective Holiday Greeting Card/Email:
1. Remember that not everyone celebrates Christmas.
Be mindful of your recipients. Holiday Season is always the best route to go if you are unsure.
2. Personalize each card….like the Johnson Family here.
It only takes a moment to sign your name and copy a short holiday greeting. Take the time to write a personalized note because your contact will notice and appreciate the personal gesture.
3. Check the spelling of your contacts.
Any good points you’ll score with a holiday card will be lost if you misspell your contact’s name.
4. Send your cards/emails early!
Remember that many companies close during the holidays and people take off early for vacation. Aim to send your cards/emails no later than December 18th.
5. Jazz it up a bit.
Make sure your card or email is a reflection of you. No one wants to receive another boring card or email. Have a little fun and get festive.
Happy Holidays and Happy Networking!
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