The law is a very competitive field. You will face many competitors from the moment you enter law school until you land your first job at a firm.
Do you feel the pressure? Do not let anxiety take over your life. Build your professional network.
It is important to network because you can meet people who will vouch for you, give you recommendations, tell you about job openings, provide their expertise and introduce you with other important contacts. Your network can offer valuable insights that lead to collaborations.
We will discuss below ways to build your professional network, as a student of law, through online networking, events, charitable giving, and professional organizations
The Student Experience
You will learn about the legal system for the first time during your student years. You professors will be well-established in their field and many of your classmates are likely to go on to be influential lawyers, politicians, or judges. Now is the time to start building relationships. Connect with them on LinkedIn to ensure continuity.
Joining student groups will put you in touch with people who share your passions and are like-minded.
Continue to leverage your network after graduation by attending alumni events and contributing to alumni publications.
Is it necessary to wait until law school before you start networking? No, of course not! You can start building your professional network as early as junior and high school. Debate teams and other special interest groups will help you connect with students that, over time, could become the basis of your growing network.
Your student experience can include internships and job shadowing. Below, we will explore them in more detail.
Job shadowing and Internships
You may be able to do an internship in a law firm or another legal entity during your university studies. You will have the opportunity to learn from and work with established legal professionals. You’ll also get to see the day-to-day activities of the office and gain some practical experience.
Include your internship experience or your shadowing on your resume. This experience is extremely valuable, especially if this is your first job.
Leverage LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a great way to stay in touch with professional contacts. You can use the site to expand your professional network. How?
Actively participate in the community. Write articles and create posts. Update your profile regularly. This will bring you to the attention other contacts.
You may also contact other professionals with whom you’d like to network, even if they are geographically separated.
Attend Events
You can build your network by attending events where professionals in your field are present. Seminars, conferences, and other events provide opportunities for networking with other professionals. Also, you can meet the keynote speakers who are usually at the forefront of legal practice. Follow up with the contact by sending an email or posting a message to LinkedIn after the event.
We’ve discussed networking with other attorneys, but networking with clients is just as important. Attend local and charitable events. Do not limit yourself to the police and mayor. Get to know the average citizen. You will gain trust by having a brief, but sincere encounter with the community. They will then be more likely to contact you in the future if they need legal assistance.
Offer Charitable Services
We have already mentioned the importance of attending community charitable events. You can give back to your community by doing volunteer work. You’ll meet judges, clients, lawyers, and organizations with a passion for social justice.
Join a Professional Organization
Joining a Bar Association will allow you to meet your colleagues and attend events. You can showcase your skills and get noticed when you volunteer for committees. Participating in continuing legal education programs (CLEs) sponsored by the Bar Association can help you expand your network.
Pay it Forward
It’s not just about you and what you get from networking; it’s a two-way road. Engage with your network. React to messages. Personalize your communication. When asked, offer assistance, such as sharing your knowledge, making referrals and connecting others.
Key Takeaways
It is impossible to deny the importance of networking. If possible, start early. Connect with your classmates and professors. Get a taste of the career through internships, entry-level jobs, and job shadowing.
Don’t stop here. LinkedIn is a great way to reconnect with former colleagues and maintain old connections. Join professional organizations, attend industry events and local community activities, and offer charitable services. You will be able to achieve your legal goals by utilizing your extensive professional network.