Networking shouldn’t ever take a holiday:

Yes, much of the business world appears to have shut down for the holidays, but that doesn’t mean you should. The holidays are a prime time to network and build relationships that will pay off in 2006.

College seniors and graduate students who are positioning themselves to enter the workforce should capitalize on time spent with friends and families, says Nancy Keene, a director in the Dallas office of Stanton Chase International, an executive search firm.

“It’s all to help support them in their current job or job search,” Ms. Keene says.

“The womb-to-tomb employment that companies used to offer doesn’t exist anymore. You have to take care of yourself.”

So if you’re job hunting, don’t hide. Reconnect with people you haven’t talked to in years and give them an update – the abridged version – of your life. That means old teachers and professors, family friends, even past employers.

You never know who they might know. You could end up with a job – or at least an interview.

And if you are currently employed, go to events where your clients, customers or even future employers hang out.

“It’s never too early to start building or adding to your personal contact base,” Ms. Keene says.

“Make sure you have your business card with you at all times.”

It wasn’t until Brian Mahavier landed his job in October with Irving-based Hanson Building Materials America that the 28-year-old fully understood the importance of networking.

“Everybody always talks about it, but I never saw it in action,” says Mr. Mahavier, who is pursuing his MBA part time at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

‘It’s real’

“It’s real, and everyone does it.”

It was through his TCU classes that Mr. Mahavier ended up getting his dream job – he’s an analyst in the company’s corporate development department.

Granted, it took a year and a half to get where he is today.

“I first met the professor who eventually led me to this opportunity in January 2004,” he recalls. “It took awhile.”

Beginning in January, TCU will offer a structured career consulting and coaching program for second-year MBA students in its Neeley School of Business.

The MBA Edge is an eight-week program that combines workshops, team meetings and one-on-one sessions with Stanton Chase consultants and career specialists.

Aiming for results

“The goal is to achieve the strongest placement results and highest levels of student and employer satisfaction,” says Shirley Rasberry, graduate career services director at Neeley.

Once you establish a network, it’s important to follow up every few months so you’ll be top of mind in case something pops up, placement experts say.

And when you get that job, continue to network.

“Oh, you can’t just stop,” Mr. Mahavier says. “For instance, we send out holiday cards, and we say, ‘Looking forward to seeing you in the New Year.’ ”

Networking galore

And remember, opportunities to network continue well after the winter holidays are over.

Family reunions, weddings, even summer vacations are occasions to mingle and fine-tune your networking techniques.

“Networking is a lot of self-initiative,” says Nick A. Giachino, senior vice president of Pepsi Foodservice Sales and a TCU trustee.

“Use your personal skills to meet and greet folks at any time, anywhere.”

If you need a little help, networking groups such as the Young Professionals of Greater Dallas (formally Young Professionals Network) can help.

“It’s a great way to meet other young professionals in the area that are focused on the same things that you are,” says Jo Trizila, spokeswoman for the Greater Dallas Chamber, which organizes the group.

Comfort in numbers

Also, group settings can liberate the more reserved.

“Sometimes people need a little boost of self-confidence,” says Frank McLaughlin, chairman of McSearch Personnel Consultants in Dallas.

“Networking is not something you should be nervous, reserved or feel awkward doing. It’s your time to shine.”

In fact, people like Mr. Giachino never stop networking.

“I’ve met people here in Colorado in the chairlift,” laughs Mr. Giachino, who is vacationing with his family.

“Introductions get made, and then they ask me for my business card.

“Some may think it’s forward,” he said. “I think it shows someone with charisma.”

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