As the holidays approach, what comes to mind? Parties, time off, or presents and eggnog? How about networking? The most common response received while researching this topic was, “You have to be kidding.” This comment reflects a feeling shared by many with regards to networking during the holiday season. Our priorities shift to buying gifts, making travel plans or perhaps our New Year's resolutions.
Let’s look at the definition of ‘networking’ before we go any further. In her book, The Networking Survival Guide, Diane Darling describes networking as,” the art of building and sustaining mutually beneficial relationships.” This definition implies that there is an ongoing effort required that is reciprocal in nature. On the other hand, the holiday season fosters an environment of sharing, relating and giving. Then, why should the two not go together?
In part two of this post we will explore the reasons why and how to network during the holidays. In the meantime, some questions to ponder:
- How do I feel about networking?
- When and how do I network?
- How can networking help me achieve my career and business goals?
Five hundred gathered at The Mayflower Hotel in Washington D.C. on November 14, 2006 to honor the work of ethnic journalists during the 
