Events Here-And-Now to Connect You

by Jan Nussbaum, 
Assistant Director for Professional Development

I realize I sound like a broken record with continual reminders that networking is the most likely way to yield a legal position, but this is reinforced by what we learn from GGU Law grads and from the research. Studies show that 80% of jobs are found through connections. I hear from recent law graduates almost daily that they have been offered a position, and most often it is a result of the network they formed with attorneys, alumni, classmates, friends and family.

Making connections is much less intimidating when the event is not for the sole purpose of networking. Each week, I post a number of upcoming events on the LCS Blog that are of this nature (and are free or of low cost to students and recent graduates), such as talks, substantive classes, hands-on training and volunteer activities. BASF's upcoming JDC 6th Annual Bike/Walk-A-Thon is one such example.

At receptions and speed-networking events, the activities are structured for you to meet other people so the awkwardness of finding someone to talk to is not as great as, say, a Happy Hour function.

BASF will have a Work-Your-Wardrobe event at a Banana Republic store on June 20th. Even if you don't need more work clothes, you can meet and connect with other attorneys while checking out the merchandise.

I will continue to post as many of these events as I can, and I hope you will attend as many as is feasible. As intense as looking for work can be, go have fun at these events. When you connect with people on a more personal level, they are more likely to go to bat for you.