Authentic Networking

by Amanda Vassigh

The concept of networking seems to come naturally to some people, while others recoil at the mere thought of attending another mixer. As a law student, and later as a new attorney, you will receive a lot of good career advice that was culled from other peoples’ years of experience. You have probably been advised time and again to network, since networking is a proven career builder and one of the best ways to find a job. So why is there so much resistance to one of the best career tools in a law student’s arsenal?

The idea of networking can seem very daunting or unsavory for those who view it as insincere or manipulative. Others are shy, or do not want to “bother” busy professionals, and others fear rejection. You may be one of these people, and it is important to know that it is possible for you to be very successful at networking, provided you do so authentically. This means that your focus should be on building relationships based on sincerity and finding what works for you in your networking efforts.

Authentic networking is about being genuine while reaching out to and expanding your contacts. It is important to realize that even the most successful people did not achieve their career goals on their own. Look at the connections you have now and those you will build as an integral part of your career success. You are joining the community of lawyers, and in this community, it is your contacts that will comprise and lead to your future clients, advisors, collaborators, and employers. This is a profession built on relationships – the attorney-client relationship being just one of many connections a good lawyer will build upon.

Networking is not just about getting a job now. It is about building genuine connections with people based on mutuality. Right now, you may need to tap into your network for assistance in your job search. In the future, someone in your network may come to you for help on a legal matter or for career advice.

The goal of authentic networking is not to use someone for a job or to schmooze and collect random business cards at a cocktail party. The goal is to connect with people, present yourself as a professional, and follow up in an attempt to build on that initial connection. You can start your networking efforts by seeking out people you already know, such as relatives, friends, and family friends. If you are not comfortable approaching strangers at a cocktail party, perhaps attending a CLE seminar or a bar association committee meeting would feel more comfortable to you. Volunteer at a bar association event. Go to meetings in an area of professional interest and start to get involved. Start small and simply talk to people. Let people know what your interests are, and come prepared with questions to initiate conversation with the people you meet. If you are shy, it might be easier for you to keep the attention focused on the other person; listening with sincere interest makes a great impression.

Many inexperienced networkers see networking as an imposition rather than an exercise in relationship building. Be genuine and ask for help, and do not apologize for wanting to learn more from someone. Most people are flattered to be asked for advice, and willing to share a coffee break or lunch hour with you (and if not, what harm was there in asking, really?). Remember that you also have something to offer, if not immediately. In the future, you may be in the position of sharing one of your contacts or forwarding a relevant article or report that he or she may find of interest. Networking is one of the keys to professional success, and while your foray into networking may begin with your job search, building connections with people is something that will help you along your career as well as put you in the position to help others. Putting thought into how you can expand your contacts in a way that you are comfortable with is the first step in authentic networking.