Holiday networking is less aggressive, slower-paced and more subtle. Think "market research" instead of "close deal" and you'll have right mindset. Yes, making connections that lead to sales is still a primary reason for attending social functions, but around holidays it's less obvious. The social "dance" is longer.

So when preparing for your holiday party "performance," practice role of Santa instead of Scrooge, and you'll do just fine.

How would Santa act at that lavish bash in your office building next week?

First, remember that Santa is friendly and approachable to EVERYONE. He's not a snob or someone who's solely focused on influential, powerful people. You'd do well to adopt that attitude yourself. You'll enjoy yourself more, feel less stressed, and who knows? You may meet someone with unexpected influence or connections.

If you're one of many people who'd rather have teeth pulled than talk to strangers, rehearse a few "safe" opening lines. "So how do you know (the host/hostess)?" or "Don't I know you from somewhere?" are non-threatening ways to begin a conversation, with added benefit of allowing you to look for connections. And "How has your day been?" is much more likely to initiate small-talk than usual "How are you?" ("Fine, thanks.") exchange.

Christmas is fast approaching and soon to be gone. You should be finishing up on one holiday sales campaign and already be planing your next. One thing in this life you can count on is that there is always another Holiday right around bend. If I have learned anything so far about sales and marketing, it's that people love to spend money on holidays. That's why we invent them. Holidays are big business. Every morning I turn radio on in car to hear that it's national toilet paper day or national donut day. Not too hard to guess how these came about.