Networking in the legal profession is so important, I cannot stress to you how important it is. Every where you go you need to make a good impression. When starting university you may have a lot of opportunities to go to various law events and meet barristers, solicitors and even judges. These people are in the position you want to be in so it is vital that you approach them in a way that is appropriate.
Here are some top tips for networking:
1. DRESS TO IMPRESS
When I mean dress to impress, I don't mean show up in a tuxedo or a ball gown - unless applicable.
It means dressing professionally, you have to look the part as well as act the part. As much as people would not like to admit it, looks matter. This even goes from brushing your teeth to wearing some deodorant.
2. DO NOT BE TOO EAGER
There is nothing wrong with being excited to meet a certain person but do not be too eager. It can be very off putting when someone behaves over the top, these guys aren't rock-stars that are use to crazy fan girls. You must approach them in a calm and professional manner. One thing that is important is to be yourself, do not act like someone you are not because you will not be able to keep it up.
3. DO NOT GO TO NETWORKING EVENTS WITH YOUR FRIENDS
There is nothing wrong with feeling a bit more comfortable approaching someone with your friend, but nine times out of ten, only one of you will end up getting the opportunity. Your friend may be a great speaker and take all your lime light. Hence, going as a group may not necessarily enable you to demonstrate your full potential. It may start to feel like a competition and that is something that you do not want. Just like you take exams by yourself you need to be able to get opportunities on your own.
Do not be disheartened if you do not make any connections, this profession is hard and it takes time. Eventually someone will say yes, just persevere and work on your weaknesses.
4. BE CONFIDENT WITHOUT BEING ARROGANT
Remember that you should be confident in whatever you do but do not be arrogant. You have to believe in yourself and in what you are saying, always ensure that everything you say is 100% the truth.
5. DO YOUR RESEARCH
Do not ever say that you are interested in XYZ Law when actually you couldn't care less. There is no point of asking for work experience in that area, and say that you love it but when it comes to it, be completely unenthusiastic.
If you are made aware of who is going to be at the event, do some research about what they do, so that you will actually be able to have something to talk about. Write down some questions but make sure that it's no more than three, you do not want to overwhelm them.
I hope this was useful, make sure you subscribe (on the left) to get notifications of new posts. There will be a part two to this so stay tuned.
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