You have reached the end of an insight session and it’s time for the ‘drinks and networking’ portion of the day – but what does this really mean and how can you make the most of this time to network? Networking can be a daunting experience for anybody, but the opportunities are also limitless. That’s why we wanted to create a helpful guide to ease your nerves and make you effective at networking in any scenario. Keep scrolling…!
Silly Questions
What does it mean to network?
When facing a room full of people, it is normal to feel overwhelmed or apprehensive about approaching anyone. Evolution has engineered our bodies to fear social rejection and seek safety in familiarity. However, remembering that everyone is in the same boat and there to meet new people might offer some valuable perspective and ease any nerves.
Networking is not only limited to insight events and can take many forms. Investopdia broadly defines networking as: “the exchange of information and ideas among people with a common profession or special interest, usually in an informal social setting.” This broad definition lends itself to being applied in a range of scenarios where anything from meeting a new colleague to bumping into an old friend could be classed as ‘networking’. Therefore, you will have probably inadvertently engaged in networking more than you realise and as with any skill, will improve with practice.
Networking is a particularly important skill for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the legal industry. As a student, your peers will be a vital source of support throughout the application journey. As you progress throughout your career, it is possible that you will find yourselves working alongside one another as trainees or on different aspects of the same matter at different law firms. Clients will sometimes instruct multiple law firms to assist them with different aspects of an acquisition, for example. It is therefore important to broaden your network to build your professional reputation and benefit from the knowledge and experience of your network.
How can I network effectively?
Networking events are a great opportunity to learn about a firm, practice area or career path generally. These events provide you with access to trainees, associates and partners who you might otherwise not be able to glean insight from. Therefore, the next time you attend a networking event or meet someone new, keep these following tips in mind to ensure you make the most of the opportunity!
1. Have a genuine interest in others
The key ingredient to effective networking is having an authentic interest in the people around you. Treating networking as an opportunity to get something from others will rarely ever lead to a productive outcome, as people can typically detect when someone is being inauthentic or self-interested. Instead, approach each conversation with a genuine desire to learn about other people’s experiences. When you approach networking from a place of authenticity and curiosity, networking will become much more enjoyable for both you and the people you are talking to.
Maintaining eye contact, listening attentively, nodding along and asking thoughtful questions will also go far to demonstrate your genuine interest in the person you are talking to and help you build rapport.
2. Consider the purpose
Talking to as many people as you can in one hour will only get you so far. An effective networker will be mindful of the purpose of each connection, which is to build long-lasting relationships. As you move throughout your career it is the strong rapport you build with each individual that will be of value in times of need. So when you meet somebody with a shared interest, consider connecting with them on social media platforms like LinkedIn, inviting them for a coffee catch-up and/ or checking in on them once in a while to maintain your relationship.
Taking the time to consider what you want to achieve out of each networking opportunity can help you feel more prepared when going into a networking session. For example, you might be looking to learn more about a specific practice area, or the level of responsibility given to trainees. Thinking about the purpose of you being there will help you be more targeted with your questions and mindful of who you want to approach which will provide you with a sense of control when entering an unfamiliar environment.
3. Conversation > Interrogation
No one wants to get stuck in small-talk or feel as though they are being interrogated with questions. If you treat networking as an opportunity to have open, interesting conversations it will be more enjoyable for both you and the person you are speaking to. A good way to encourage dialogue whilst networking is to offer insight into your own experiences on the topic you are asking about. For example, if you are speaking to a partner about their experiences in an area of law, you can draw on why this interests you to open up a channel of dialogue and help the conversation flow.
Roger Hart (Partner at Addleshaw Goddard) recently shared with TheBusinessDesk his experience of using his passion for wine as a way to broaden his network and excel in his career. The article is an excellent example of how networking can be as easy as talking about something you’re interested in, even if it is not necessarily law-related!
4. Connecting virtually
Once you meet someone you want to add to your network, connecting on online platforms like LinkedIn can be a great way to stay in touch. LinkedIn can also provide you with exposure to other key industry players who you can follow, even if your connection request is rejected. Through connecting/ following people in career paths you are drawn to, you will gain insight into their professional experiences. Therefore, it is important to invest time into perfecting your LinkedIn profile, as future connections may use your profile as a way of gaining insight into who you are and whether to include you in their network.
5. Practice and Confidence
Networking can be challenging as it requires an array of interpersonal skills including effective listening and clear communication. Through practice, it will become easier to approach networking opportunities with confidence. Let’s Chat Law organises lots of in-person events throughout the year to allow aspiring lawyers to connect outside of a competitive environment. If you are eager to practise your networking skills, keep your eyes peeled for the next Let’s Chat Law in-person event!
How will these tips help me with networking?
Through applying the tips above, you will be well-equipped to approach networking with a confident and optimistic mindset. Networking events are a safe place to approach people you have never met and get to know one another. Opportunities to practise effective networking are everywhere and you might be surprised by the doors that open as a result. Have a go at applying the five top-tips above and you will be expanding your network in no time.
