Now that society is back open, think strategically about professional holiday gatherings. These events are opportunities to SIGNAL what you want to ATTRACT. Here are some tips:

1) Do homework on the likely attendees. Check out their LI profile or recent news for any natural connections, updates, clues that help your conversation. Can you congratulate them on recent role, interests, achievements? Maybe they posted recently on a topic you found meaningful.

IF THIS FEELS SLIMY: Remember, if your shared interest or compliment is authentic, you'll be authentic.

2) Be ready to communicate your goals quickly and simply. Practice a simple sentence you can land on the right ears when you get the chance. For example, "I want to help with integrating our latest acquisition." "I'm seeking experience in an international market," "I'm ready to run a P&L." "I'd like to work on special project X." Plant the seed, send the signal, and move on with the flow of the party.

IF THIS FEELS SELF-PROMOTING: Remember, you're offering your energy and talents to help them with their priorities. Who doesn't welcome offers to help?

3) Ensure your LI profile is consistent with your goals. People will likely look you up on LinkedIn the next day. So, if you talk about your passion for ESG or healthcare or Private Equity, and LI shows no particular interest or knowledge in the space, how compelling is your signal?

IF THIS FEELS TEDIOUS: Remember LI is a representation of your personal brand. Be consistent and intentional.

4) Stay at least one drink shy of tipsy. Alcohol consumption rose 14% during the pandemic, with a 41% increase in heavy drinking among women. If you haven't been out drinking in a professional setting in a while, be careful.

IF #1-4 FEEL LIKE A LOT OF WORK: Remember, no one cares about your career as much as you do, so own it. Put your network to work for you this holiday season.