How to network effectively during workplace parties

Parties are great opportunities for any professional to grow their profile.

A cocktail party presents one of the easiest opportunities for you to expand your network, score new business, and build new exciting relationships in a relaxed semi-formal setting. The secret to doing this well is in the preparation time because how you present yourself and interact can potentially add value to your life or the opposite. Remember, whether you are the host or the guest you have responsibilities.

Corporate cocktail etiquette
RSVP whether you will either attend or not. This will create a good impression. Even If you have to cancel at short notice, it is good manners to e-mail or call the host to let them know. If you have nominated someone else to attend in your place, let the host know the names and title of the person.

Plan what you will wear according to host instructions, be sure to freshen up before you get there and stay away from more revealing party outfits. Remember perceptions about who you are highly influenced by what you are dressed in.

Arrive on time. Where possible arrive 5-10 minutes earlier than later. This will reflect well on your company, help you stand out as an exceptional professional and you will have the advantage of working the room and seeing who is present so you can execute your network strategy with ease.

Always have your elevator speech ready. This is a quick 30-second introduction that tells guests about where you work, what you do and how you help clients.

Know ahead of time who you may need to interact with and ensure they leave knowing what you wanted them to know about you or your company.
Have your business cards handy, easy to locate in a side pocket, in your purse or shirt pocket.
Keep your drink or food in your left hand so that you can shake hands easily when introducing yourself.

Avoid hors d’oeuvres that are likely to make a sticky mess especially those with a filling that may splash all over your hand or face.
Be very mindful of your alcohol intake. You can easily lose credibility if you become known as the party drunk.

Keep conversations focused, avoiding contentious subjects like politics, religion, and crude jokes as you may not know which side that potential client belongs. Don’t lose focus of your objective for being at the cocktail, but avoid getting too ‘salesy’.

Work the room. Do not hog guests especially the celebrity guests, keynote speakers and guest of honour. Part of being a credible professional is being able to walk up to other guests, introducing yourself and engaging in good conversation.

Show deference when you introduce others for example where there is a difference in position: Introduce a senior officer to a junior officer. “Susan (CEO) I would like to introduce Jane Lule (junior officer). Jane Lule this is Ms Musoke, the president of this company.”

Ms Ntambiko is a professional business etiquette consultant and a director in The Knowledge Management Company. www.theknowledgemanagementcompany.com.

editorial@ug.nationmedia.com