Networking: tips for success

Dear Oracle

I'm still only a student but someone told me that I need to network with lawyers already. Is this true? How do I do it?

The Oracle replies

Networking is one of those nebulous concepts that many people think they should be doing but don't know how to. And the people who can do it didn't take a course; they just seem to have an effortless, magical ability to form relationships with people in useful positions. In a sense, this last point defines networking and proves just how important it can be for the wannabe lawyer (solicitor or barrister).

Solicitors network all the time. It's estimated that the legal profession gets a fifth of its new business from referrals or recommendations. Although there are many formal options open to you to bag a look inside a law firm (work placement schemes, open days, firm presentations and so on), sometimes it pays to put in a little more inventive effort. First, think of any contacts you may have already, from solicitors you or your family have ever hired through to family or friends who are already qualified solicitors, through to university lecturers and other members of your university law society. Then, get talking. Speak to your contacts and try to wedge yourself into situations where you can meet more. Don't forget to listen (people love to talk and it's often said that the best networkers are those that listen best). Remember names, mention them to others and yes, go ahead and make use of them: ask a solicitor if you can shadow her for a day or two, ask another if he can give you application tips or just get them to speak about their work.

Would-be barristers should pay attention to all that advice, but also have to be aware that, in many ways, the Bar relies a lot more heavily on networking. First, the nature of how the Bar gets its clients (solicitors go to barristers they know and have worked with previously or at least are referred to). Second, although the profession is jumping through lots of hoops to try to open itself up to prospective barristers, networking is still a very important aspect that could make your career.

While networking is an essential skill for would-be and qualified solicitors and barristers, it does not come naturally to many people. You can be creative in your approach to networking; in addition to thinking about your family, friends and lecturers who may have contacts in the legal profession, think about your contacts in industry (public and private sector) who may work for organisations with large legal teams such as BT, Google or your local council. In-house legal work experience is highly desirable on a CV as it demonstrates that you have been exposed to the client’s perspective on things.

If you participate in pro bono (highly recommended!), make an effort to get to know and build a rapport with the supervising solicitor as they may be able to offer you work experience or introduce you to a professional contact who can. Also look out for legal industry events via Twitter and LinkedIn and sign up to attend.

Another essential tip for networking is to do your homework prior to attending an event. Research the organisations and keynote speakers, and prepare questions in advance. You must also keep up to date with current affairs. A good knowledge of what is going on in the world (economic, political and social) can make small talk a lot more comfortable! Make a note of you who spoke to, their business title and contact details (if provided) and thank them by name at the event – it demonstrates good listening skills. Converse with a number of people; you won't do yourself any favours in the long term by talking to just a few. Finally, eat before you go. This way you're not tempted to balance a plate and glass while trying to shake people's hands and take their cards!