I try to take a few minutes of your time every year at this holiday season to remind you what a gold mine this time of year is to your networking efforts.

Whether you are working or not working. Whether you are looking for a job or very happy where you are, this is the time of year when you don’t need much of an excuse to call EVERYONE you know and reconnect with them.

The last thing any professional networker wants to be viewed as is someone who only calls when they need a job. This is such a great time of year to call old friends and new friends. Those with whom you have a close personal relationship and even those you barely know. They will all take your call.

Step one is to be compulsively well organized about this project because you don’t want to miss anyone. Some folks on your list require a phone call. Others require at least an email. Others you should arrange to meet for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

And did I mention all those holiday parties? What a bonanza of networking opportunities. Sign up for all of them. Become a party animal.

The only tools you need are business cards and a 90 second announcement that brings others up to date on your various happenings during the year. Not much to ask for the benefit you will receive.

If you are active in your search, please know that most people stay closer to home this time of year. Even the worst road warrior doesn’t want to get caught in all that holiday traffic, and what with family get-togethers and business events, they are liable to reduce their time out of the office. If this isn’t a chicken ready for the plucking, I don’t know what is.

For the proverbial road warriors who you would otherwise find pacing their office like a caged tiger, you will be able to provide them with a little personal entertainment by calling and setting up a time to visit. Yes, you will be doing THEM a favor. (Road warriors get bored when they can’t travel.)

The availability of so many people and their willingness to see you at this time of year is an opportunity not to be missed.

I hope you won’t.

Regard, Matt