December is often written off as a slow time for job searching, but it’s actually one of the best times of year to network.

In this episode of Her Next Chapters, we’re talking about holiday networking and how to talk about your career during the holidays in a way that feels natural, confident, and human. If you’re in a career transition, returning to work after a break, navigating a layoff, or quietly thinking about a job search in 2026, this episode will help you show up to conversations with more clarity and ease.

You’ll learn:

Why December and the holiday season are a unique opportunity for networking
How to reframe networking so it doesn’t feel awkward, forced, or transactional
What to say when someone asks, “So what are you up to these days?”
A simple elevator pitch structure you can use right away
How referrals work and why networking matters more than online applications
Common mistakes to avoid when talking about your job search
How small, low-pressure asks can lead to warm introductions

These holiday networking strategies are especially helpful during end-of-year gatherings, but they work any time of year - at school events, community gatherings, volunteer roles, professional associations, and everyday conversations.

Whether you’re restarting your career after a break, pivoting into something new, or preparing for a job search in the new year, this episode will help you think about networking as socializing with purpose - during the holidays and beyond.

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Email me directly at christina@hernextchapters.com

Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kohlchristina

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105. Holiday Networking: How To Talk About Your Career During The Holidays (And Beyond)