3 essentials of Networking etiquette at a works social event

Work socials are a great way to get to know people in an informal setting.  You often have greater access to more senior staff and have a real opportunity to show the whole you, rather than the glimpse that may be seen at work.
But how do you behave? Here are the three questions that I am asked most often:
Q. How many people should I introduce myself to at the event to work the room?
Prior preparation is important, ask your boss who would be good for you to meet, and why.   Also ask others who the key influencers are, sometimes the CEO’s personal assistant has more internal power than he or she does.
Be careful, it becomes obvious if you are playing a numbers game by having shallow conversations with as many people as possible. Instead make quality connections, the influential people you introduce yourself to will introduce you to their network.  This will take the pressure off you and provide you with ‘warm’ introductions.
Q. For how many minutes should I talk to someone before moving onto the next person at a bash?
A bit like a first date, it’s best to leave them wanting more. Don’t wait for the conversation to dry up before your decide to move on.  Remember that you are working the room; allocate 3 – 5 minutes per person maximum, you can always arrange to meet them again.
Q. Should I drink Alcohol?
If everyone else is having a glass of something and you are sure that can hold your drink then why not. Stick to a couple of glasses of a drink that you are familiar with and drink lots of water. Do not get to the point of being even slightly tipsy even if everyone else is doing it.  You want to remember exactly what you said and did in the morning.
Stick to this guidance and you’ll be just fine
My most important piece of advice…have fun!
I am Jenny Garrett, Executive Coach, founder of Reflexion Associates, a leadership and coaching consultancy and author or Rocking Your Role – the how to guide to success for female breadwinners. Find out more about me, my programmes, speaking engagements and training at rockingyourrole.com and sign up for my newsletter