Whether you’re looking for a job or as a career aid at any time, the schmooze factor plays an essential role in winning you support from & connecting with others. And learning about useful things, such as new projects and unposted job openings.
According to Merriam-Webster schmoozing is “[chatting] in a friendly and persuasive manner especially so as to gain favor, business, or connections.” But don’t make any ulterior motives or pressing needs too obvious!
The best schmoozing is done in a natural and friendly manner — and actually without evident intent. It’s a basic tool of networking and of building professional (or personal) relationships of any kind. And being seen away from your desk and actively part of the team helps keep you from being forgotten when interesting assignments are handed out.
Is “schmooze factor” anything new?
Not at all. What used to be called watercooler conversation is simply a good away-from-the desk chat with a colleague. Or even with your boss. For many years this was the secret sauce of getting ahead.
Regularly connecting via a good schmooze also helps keep you in the office communication news loop, a very good thing for any career. And for women, who may sometimes be left out of the regular communication channels, this can be a huge help.
MORE DEFINITIONS:
Career Dictionary