With things like your holiday party coming up, often the concern of those that are hosts is, how am I going to connect with everyone in a meaningful way?
How?
Stop working the room, and instead work the door. I know this flies in the face of common networking ideas and even networking coaching. But remember, this is not about you, it is about you being there for them.
Work the door. Personally greet every single person that comes in with a smile and a positive tone and say, “So glad you came and delighted to see you. What are you (two) looking forward to the most today/tonight?”
Note that this is not the standard “I hope you have a good time.” Instead, it creates a moment of remembrance and positive interaction with every single attendee.
This receiving line that you create at the door will make them feel special and personally welcomed and will allow them to share their thoughts for a moment. After you are certain that everyone has arrived, then work the room.
Enjoy the friend raising – it will lead to more fund raising!