Conversations at Holiday Parties

At the end of each year, 'tis the season for countless parties. Time to gather with friends, colleagues, clients and others who are (or can become) a valuable part of your network. Are you prepared? If you think through the following before attending the event, the small talk will seem a lot less daunting. And, you just might get a jump start on your business development plans for the new year.

• What have you been up to in your personal life?

• In your professional life?

• Make sure to employ the rule "2 ears, 1 mouth" - listen more than you talk.

• Think of ways that you can help others when they share their plans and ideas with you.

• Consider how you will talk about yourself and your firm when someone asks (and they will).

• And most importantly – follow up!