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The holidays aren't just for decking the halls—they're prime time to advance your career! Studies show that 80% of jobs are filled through networking, making professional gatherings like Career Network Ministry (CNM) Christmas party next Tuesday, December 17th, 6 pm, a golden opportunity to build meaningful connections and pave the way for 2025.
Whether you're a seasoned networker or just starting out, these six power-packed tips will help you shine brighter than holiday lights.
Tip 1- Strategic Preparation: Research Like Santa's Best Elf
Before diving into the holiday networking spirit, lay the groundwork for effective networking:
Leverage the CNM guest roster to identify potential members with aligned industries or backgrounds.
Review individual LinkedIn profiles of these guests to tailor your approach and conversations.
Explore company websites and LinkedIn pages of organizations represented for mission, values, recent news, and shared connections.
Set Google Alerts for target organizations
Map out your "must-meet" contacts like planning a holiday shopping route
Set specific goals: Aim for 3-5 meaningful connections rather than collecting all attendees.
Pro Tip: Not an active member yet? Join CNM’s online community to start your networking before the event! Click here to join and view our FREE member benefits.
Tip 2 - Digital & Physical Tools: Pack Your Networking Sleigh
Modern networking requires both digital savvy and practical preparation:
Screenshot your LinkedIn QR code for quick access. Learn how to use LinkedIn QR codes here.
Keep your LinkedIn profile open in a separate browser tab
Bookmark CNM's event page here to plan your next real-time connections
Bring a portable phone charger or pen (be everyone's holiday hero!) One CNM member landed an interview simply by lending a phone charger to a hiring manager with a dying battery.
Tip 3 - Make Your First Impression Sparkle
Craft an elevator pitch that lights up conversations:
Focus on problems you love solving, not just your job title
Weave in holiday spirit without overdoing it
End with an engaging question
Example: "Just as Santa's elves specialize in different toys; I help marketing teams find their unique specialties. I've guided three startups to discover and dominate their niche markets. What marketing challenges is your team tackling for 2025?"
Need inspiration? Practice with the CNM elevator pitch template from our very own JV Venable.
Tip 4 - Time & Position Strategy: Navigate Like Rudolph
Position yourself for networking success:
Arrive 15 minutes early to connect with organizers and early birds
Station yourself near natural gathering points (refreshment areas, check-in)
Move locations every 20 minutes to maximize connection
Tip 5 - Connect with Purpose: Spread the Holiday Cheers
Make every interaction count:
Identify and engage with natural connectors in the room
Balance conversations: 70% professional, 30% festive
Visit CNM’s Resources page for holiday conversation starters
Listen more than you speak—good networkers are like elves, always attentive and empathetic.
Pro Tip: Look for quieter professionals near the room's edges. They often have the deepest industry insights!
Tip 6 - Creative Follow-Through That Stands Out
Make your follow-up memorable:
Send a 30-second video thanking them for a specific conversation insight.
Share a 2025 industry prediction tied to your discussion.
Create a curated list of three resources addressing their biggest challenge.
Offer to introduce them to someone who could provide valuable insights into their industry or help with a work project.
Use follow-up networking templates and holiday message examples. For inspiration, visit Hunter, Skillscouter, ResumeWorded, and Idealist.
Your Invitation to Networking Joy
Join us for an unforgettable evening of networking at CNM's Christmas event on December 17th at 6 PM ET at McLean Bible Church. Bring your LinkedIn QR code, holiday spirit, and a readiness to connect!
Remember: Like the perfect holiday gathering, successful networking isn't about meeting everyone—it's about making meaningful connections that last well into the new year.
Need more help? Visit CNM's Resources page for additional tips and templates.
Want to share your Christmas networking event experience? Connect with us on LinkedIn and let us know how your strategies helped build your connections!
Landed a new role? Click here to share how CNM has helped your career journey!
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