The holiday season is in full swing and with that comes the dreaded, for some, networking event. It’s easy to be intimidated or nervous about approaching a complete stranger, or even someone you’ve previously met in passing. Luckily, there are a few simple tricks everyone can take with them into their next get-together.

Earlier this week, TechAlliance member Allison Graham, author of Business Cards to Business Networks: How to Build the Ultimate Network and the founder of Elevate Seminars + Strategic Development Inc., was featured on CityTV’s Breakfast Television, in a segment about navigating the holiday-party circuit (here).

Offering some helpful tips, Allison had one that really struck a chord with me:

Go early! It’s easy to fall into the trap of going into an event later in order to hide out in a corner, but then what would be the point of going? You want to meet people, right? Why not nip it in the proverbial bud and walk through the doors, just as the event kicks off? Likely, there will be a few other early birds that would love someone to talk to. As Allison says, there’s a window of opportunity in going early, when people are waiting for others to show up. And it’s that time when the leadership in the room is still available for you to speak with. Don’t be afraid to put out there that you don’t know many people and would like the chance to be introduced to some great contacts. Remember that no one automatically knows everyone at a function; it’s the introductions that make it happen.

One last networking gem from Allison that I will always remember:

Use napkins to wipe your hands clean, or make a quick trip to the restroom. No one wants to shake your hand after you’ve just licked off the sauce or remnants from the hors d’oeuvre you ate. Don’t be a finger licker!

Happy networking!