Absolutely! If you've been reading my blog for any amount of time you know that I say over and over again that networking is at it's core about relationships. Do you have any better relationships than those you have with your ‘relatives?' I think the word relatives pretty much says it all.

Successful networking is also about giving first. What a great way to turn Thanksgiving into your own personal networking event, and find ways to give to your family, friends and relatives. Now I'm not saying go out and start collecting business cards on Thanksgiving. That's not it at all. Just take the time to listen to each person while you're enjoying Thanksgiving and see if there's any way that you might be able to help them.

You might even be able to refer some of the people you've been networking with to your family. Maybe your uncle is complaining about his back (again). What an opportunity to refer him to the Chiropractor you keep hearing such great things about every Tuesday morning. Your lazy cousin forgot to file his tax return? I'm sure you know a great CPA or tax preparer who could help.

This Thanksgiving be thankful for the friends and family you get to spend the holiday with. Appreciate them, and just listen. You'll prove to be a very valuable asset, and if you need something next year it'll be even easier to ask your best built in network… Your family.

Happy networking!

Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com