Question: Every year we have an office party in late December, and I dread having to go as the conversations are always about work and are not a lot of fun. Can you please give me any pointers of how I can either enjoy the party or come up with a good excuse not to attend?

Answer: While many office parties can be not as fun as you might want, it sounds like you may be talking with the same people every year. Let me suggest that you choose certain key executives in your company to research so that you know their interests. Make a point to seek them out and make this an opportunity for you to be known by them. This does not mean that you are going to brag about yourself, but rather make a point to speak about accomplishments they made during the year and how they positively impacted the firm. Make sure that you speak genuinely to them and do not make it sound fake. You may also get the opportunity to later speak about your position and how your efforts affect the company. Rather than thinking of this as just another office party, think of it as a way to advance yourself through targeted networking with the senior executives of your firm.

Question: There are some holiday parties coming up that are sponsored by industry organizations, but they do not have many customers who attend. Do you really think it is important for me to attend such events?

Answer: Your personal reputation in your industry is something you need to continue to grow, and it's important expand the network of people who know you. I can tell you from my own past experience that networking with my industry colleagues, many of whom are my competitors, has always proved to be valuable. In many instances my competitors have referred business to me that they could not handle, or on occasion felt nervous knowing I was competing for the same piece of business. Your personal reputation is something that will stay with you forever, so practice your own personal brand and talk with everyone that you can.

Question: I recently lost my job as my firm lost a key client that was a major part of our income. Is this the best time of year for me to start looking for a new position, or should I wait until January to start my job search?

Answer: Believe it or not, December is one of the best months to look for a new position. Use the many holiday parties that occur during this time to network with your colleagues and past competitors, and do not be shy about telling them about your situation and that you are available right now. However, be mindful of the amount of food and beverages you consume. People who may be aware you are out of work will observe you and may make judgments about your abilities based on your behavior. It is possible to have “too much fun,” and it’s important to remain in control of yourself and exhibit responsible behavior. Remember that this is a business opportunity, and you need to make as many contacts as possible in a way that will have a positive impact on people who have spoken with you.

Submitted by Ted Miller, HMCC, CHME, CHSP, CGTP, CGMP