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So ask a lot of "who, what, where, when and why" questions. Try to spend
first five minutes of any conversation talking about other person. You already know about yourself; you want to gather information and make friends with others. Besides, it's very flattering. Someone who's interested in others is invariably seen as someone worth knowing. (So tuck a few business cards in your pocket beforehand!)
Finally, Santa is welcome and appreciated at any gathering because he brings gifts. No, you don't need to carry in a large red bag filled with personalized company pens or magnets. But before party, think about who you're likely to meet and what you can offer them.
Have you read a great book? Do you know what's being built across street? Did you discover a helpful new product or service? Then don't be a Scrooge! Spread news. Offer information.
Better yet, do you have a personal connection to someone party attendees would like to meet? Then be prepared to offer their name and/or business card.
And when talk does turn to business, keep it light and keep it brief. If you have helpful ideas to pass on, or discover a connection you'd like to strengthen, ask for a business card and permission to call at work. Then steer conversation back to more fun, personal topics. (Just remember to follow up afterwards!)
With preparation, you can enjoy meeting new people and reconnecting with old colleagues in mutually profitable ways. And you might just become as popular as Ol' Saint Nick.
