A couple of weeks ago, I attended an evening programme focused on career development at Association City Bar of New York.The programme was aimed mostly at recent law graduates and associates.
All four panelists provided some concrete strategies and tips. However, what really surprised me was how hungry these graduates and associates were for information on networking. After the panelist finished a further 45 minutes was spent on questions. The questions ranged from: which form of resume works best to how to strike up a conversation with strangers when networking.
Here are a couple of pointers, particularly if you starting your networking endeavours:
- Think carefully about who will be attending this event, Whom do you want meet? Do you know anybody who could make that introduction?
- Have business cards with you.
- Make sure you have some topics to talk about. Read through a couple of daily newspapers, so that you can discuss current affairs.
- Be punctual, arrive early.
- Avoid eating excessively or drinking.
- Don't sit, you want to make some connections.
To find out more how networking can help your law practice, email at pmahli @suncommunicationsgroup.com or visit The Sun Communication Group.
