The best networking advice I’ve ever received was from my high school college advisor.
He said: “Always send Christmas cards.”
Given how infrequently we receive anything that’s not a bill in the mail these days, holiday cards are really memorable. The younger you are, the less likely your same-age peers are to send cards, making you stand out even more.
(To-date, I have *never* received a physical holiday card in the mail from a peer. I continue to receive many from my male friends’ mothers, however.)
Holiday cards are also the perfect excuse to catch up with old acquaintances, teachers, co-workers, etc. and make sure they have your latest contact information and basic demographics. (Got married, had a kid, moved to Ethiopia, etc.)
ALWAYS write a personal message inside the card, and make it equally about you and about the recipient. End your card with a question and an invitation for them to contact you.
For example:
[Their Name],
[Generic pre-printed holiday message.]
The cats and I are back in Portland, OR for awhile, at least until a new adventure presents itself. Business is keeping me really busy, but I get to do what I love, so I can’t complain!
Where has post-college life found you? Have you seen anyone from high school lately?
If you’re ever out my way, please give me a ring! I’d love to see you.
Happy Holidays!
Marina
marina@marinamartin.com
It’s never too early to start writing those cards — break the task up by writing a set number per week between now and mid-December.
Preparing for sending holiday cards is also a great way to update your current address book. Scour your Facebook profiles, alumni magazines, and make some calls if you need to in order to track everyone on your list down.
If you can’t find an old classmate’s current address, and you know where their parent or other relative lives, mail the card there with a request for them to let you know their current whereabouts.
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I just wrote a post a few days ago about the importance of networking by sending birthday cards, you coach is right. Make someone feel special and they will do everything they can to help you.