TOP 10 NETWORKING TIPS
1. Be Prepared. Research the attorneys that will be in attendance so that you can feel confident approaching them with questions. Practice what you want to say about yourself. Have a short introduction prepared and have some ideas ready for what you want to discuss with the attorneys.
2. Dress to Impress. First impressions are important! Dress professionally and look like you could fit in at the attorney’s offices. At the least, wear business casual attire.
3. Introduce Yourself. The attorneys in attendance are there because they want to help. They want to talk to you! Take the simple step to introduce yourself and initiate a conversation.
4. Ask for Contact Information. If you have a good conversation, ask that attorney for a business card. Make notes on the back of the card after the event to help remind you who the attorney is and the things that you talked about. Use this information to follow-up after the event!
5. Cast a Broad Net. While an attorney might not work in the exact practice area you are interested in, that attorney likely knows people who do and may be willing to connect you with his/contacts who are in the line of practice you are interested in. Likewise, don’t limit your networking to attorneys only. Contacts in multiple disciplines can lead to equally interesting legal opportunities.
6. Smile. People are more willing to approach students who look like they are having a good time and are happy to be at the event. You also want to be remembered as friendly and open, which will make it easier to follow up with any attorneys you meet.
7. Remember to Listen. By listening, you will be able to find out more about who the person is and convey to them that you care and are interested in what they are saying. Be genuine and show interest in what the attorney is saying.
8. Ask Questions. The more questions you ask, the more you will get out of this experience. This is a chance to really pick the brains of the attending attorneys on topics that interest you. Asking questions will open up the discussion, and will keep the conversation going if you encounter a lull.
9. Follow up. After meeting the attorneys, send follow-up e-mails or notes to those with whom you want to establish a more long-term relationship. Remind the attorney who you are, where you met, something specific you had spoken about, and always let them know you appreciate their time.
10. Be Persistent! Networking takes time to yield results – try to have fun with the process. Aim for quality and quantity of connections and be persistent about building your network. You never know when the right opportunity will present itself!
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