Too many of us have the self limiting belief that the holidays are a slow time. Nobody does business during the holidays they’re too busy thinking about holiday parties, and aren’t focused on working. I used to buy into this, but have realized that it’s self perpetuating garbage. If we all sit around thinking that nobody else is really working then of course the holidays are going to be a slow time for us all.

This is a great opportunity that only comes around once a year. Think about how much easier it is to get in touch with all of those busy people in your network when they’re not being bombarded with calls and projects because it’s their supposed slow time.

You may not be able to generate as much business as you would like in the month of December, but you can really prime the pump for the beginning of a spectacular year that starts that way in January.

Start by picking up the phone. Reconnect with your network. Spend a few minutes and learn about their goals and desires for the coming year. How can you help them accomplish those goals? Hint: This is a big referral opportunity. You’ll be able to help them by helping others in your network get more referrals. In a slow month no less.

This is also a great time of year to be working on your strategic alliances. Sit down with those people in your network who you have the most synergy with. If you’re a graphic designer you might want to get together with your printer or web developer. Work together to figure out how you can truly leverage your relationship into more consistent referrals for each other.

Don’t sit around this December complaining about what a slow month it is. Take advantage of the opportunity to reconnect with your network and build stronger relationships that will lead to more referrals in 2006.

Happy networking!

Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com