155442 Resource 149173 91008 91008 1168625693327 1168625693327 Controlled Holidays Bring Small Business Networking Opportunities

Here are a few small business tips for you tonkeep in mind as the holiday season is approaching

Holidays Bring Networking Opportunities ‘Tis the season for holiday cheer and social events, complete with overflowing food trays and all the punch you can drink. But when a work-related function is concerned, don’t let the temptation of revelry get in the way of your best business intentions. Here are some small business guidelines to keep in mind as you hit the holiday circuit: <ol><li>Limit the drinks. When celebrating with associates, clients and potential customers, you want their lasting impressions of you to be positive, not of you dancing on the table with a feather boa around your neck. Before you arrive, set a limit for yourself of one or two alcoholic beverages. Even if those around you are taking off their shoes and downing shots, maintain your professional image. The party may end, but memories of bad behavior last forever. </li><li>Don’t be a business bore. Sure, if you get the chance you want to plug your talents and promote yourself, but keep it to a minimum. A party is a party, not a business meeting. Don’t force an agenda or sales pitch on a colleague or associate when they just want to relax and enjoy the event. </li><li>Tease and walk away. If you get the opportunity to converse with a company decision maker or potential customer, focus on a social or personal comment. Instead of saying, “Gee, Bob, now that I have your full attention, I’d like to tell you what my company can do for you,” try, “Bob, I noticed the wonderful article about your company in the newspaper last week. Congratulations! I’d love to talk more about it after the first of the year. Have a great time.” You’ve noticed them, piqued their interest, and walked away leaving a positive experience behind. Then follow up during business hours after the holiday rush settles down. </li><li>Realize the value of your spouse or partner. Many a new small business business lead has been realized through word-of-mouth by your well-meaning better half. When your partner is chatting to new acquaintances, some of the most often asked questions are: “Who are you here with?” and “What do they do for a living?” That’s a perfect lead-in for them to do a quick summary of your services without looking like they’re your human advertisement. </li></ol> Remember, celebrations throughout the year are wonderful business networking opportunities to promote yourself and your small business. If you keep it a positive experience for everyone, you’ll reap the benefits for months to come. That is our small business tip of the day. Enjoy 10 application/xml false small business holiday small business lead small business networking small business opportunities small business tips Mozilla/5.0 (Windows; U; Windows NT 5.1; en-US; rv:1.8.0.9) Gecko/20061206 Firefox/1.5.0.9 127.0.0.1 127.0.0.1 Rodney_Rumford false true false false true 189572 false false true false false false true 149173 blog blogsite/FreedomVoice/web