Griffin Connect, a program of the GGU Alumni Board for recent alumni, held a professional development symposium, in partnership with LCS and the Alumni Association, for lawyers 0 to 5 years out this past Saturday. The keynote speaker was the Honorable Loretta Giorgi (GGU JD 85) who provided pearls of wisdom on how to open up opportunities in one’s career:
- Hone your skills. Understand what skills are required for your position and master them. Then build additional skills. Do whatever it takes to obtain these skills.
- Volunteer. This is a great way to obtain skills. If you want trial experience, the courts and municipal attorney offices need volunteers to manage simple cases.
- Prepare to be ready for your next position. If some task or assignment comes your way, regardless of how seemingly minor or small, take it and take care of it. Look and be ready for more responsibility from those around you.
- Network every way you can – Professional Associations, LinkedIn, the gambit. You never know who and what might benefit you, including going out of your way to help someone else.
- Establish and preserve your reputation. Above all, act ethically. Make a point of getting along with others: everyone with the court; other lawyers; opposing parties; everyone.
- Do not be afraid to change direction or take on new challenges. You may be surprised that you like things that you thought you would not.
- Demonstrate an ability to be flexible and a capacity to deal with change.
- Continue your education, including educating yourself. Take CLE in areas foreign to you or in what you want to be doing down the road. Be part of a practice area discussion group. Read & research. Be creative. But keep learning.
- Share your skills and knowledge. Mentor others, starting now. There is always someone behind you trying to make their way to where you are. Be available in meaningful ways.
- Balance your life. Work isn't everything.
