By Bob Dichter, Career Coach

Holidays and social events are perfect for relaxing and connecting with others, but they also offer excellent opportunities for networking. Whether you’re meeting new people or strengthening existing relationships, networking is key to career growth.

However, networking can feel daunting, especially if you’re not comfortable with it. Let’s debunk a few myths first:

Common Networking Myths

1. Networking is only for job seekers.
Networking is valuable at all career stages. It’s about building connections to enhance your career, not just finding a job.
2. I already know this person—why network with them?
People know you in specific contexts (school, work, etc.), but may not know your current goals or career focus.
3. Networking is just asking for jobs.
If the conversation focuses solely on job openings, it may end quickly. Instead, share your experiences, goals, and value as a professional.
4. I should only network within my industry.
Anyone can be a valuable connection. You never know who they might introduce you to. Many people find opportunities through unexpected sources, like neighbors or friends outside their field.

10 Practical Networking Tips

1. Respect Time
Keep interactions brief—5-10 minutes is ideal. Focus on introductions and plan to follow up later.
2. Avoid Leading with Job Requests
Start by building relationships. Once established, seeking job assistance becomes more natural.
3. Step Outside Your Circle
Don’t stick with familiar faces—make an effort to meet new people.
4. Prepare Conversation Starters
Have a question or comment ready to spark dialogue.
5. Engage Meaningfully
Introduce yourself and ask about others. Networking is a two-way street.
6. Be Respectful
Join conversations tactfully and avoid dominating them. At business events, find shared interests before discussing job opportunities.
7. Craft a Clear Value Proposition
Be prepared to answer “Tell me about yourself” in under a minute. Focus on your skills, goals, and potential value to your next hiring manager — not your career history.
8. Target Your Efforts
Know your career goals and focus on connecting with those who align with them.
9. Prepare and Seek Support
Feeling nervous? Prepare in advance or ask someone you know for introductions.
10. Think Long-Term
Networking builds relationships that may help now or in the future. Offer help in return—it strengthens connections.

If you need assistance in your search or unsure how to create a strong value proposition or identify your ideal job, let’s connect. I offer a free, no-obligation career coaching session to help you get started.

Good luck and happy networking!

About the author:

Bob Dichter has a keen interest in Professional Development. He is on the board of the NE HIMSS (Healthcare Information Management System Society) chapter, is the founder and chair of the Mentorship program and is on the HIMSS Professional Development Committee.

As a Career Coach, he recognizes that job seeking is challenging and often done without an effective plan. He not only supports his clients during this transition, but helps them craft compelling Value Propositions, discover their ideal role, and create an effective Go-To-Market plan.

As a Healthcare IT consultant, he has been described as a “Health Care Business Leader in Technologist’s Clothing.” His focus is on understanding the business’s key problems and goals and then utilizing technology to help improve efficiency and resiliency, and better address customer demands.

His profile is https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobdichter and email is Bob@PhoenixRisingCareer.com.


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