5 Best Ways to Network, When You Don't Want to Network
If you want to make it rain, you've got to hustle. But some of us would prefer not to. Maybe you're an introvert, or maybe inauthentic schmoozing turns you off, or maybe you'd just rather go home after a long day and take a nap. We understand.
But you're still going to need to get out there and make connections anyway. So here are some tips to help you network -- tips that don't require you to collect every business card or attend every cocktail party.
1. How to Be Memorable: More Networking Tips for Lawyers
Hate networking? Then make sure that the little networking you do, you do right. That means making sure you leave an impression; after all, you don't want to have to do this all over again in a week, right?
2. Fake It 'Til You Make It: Networking for Introverts
If your stomach drops at the idea of striking up conversation with strangers, you might be an introvert. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't network. Here are five ways to overcome your networking reluctance, for those legal professionals who'd really rather just be left alone.
3. A Drink-by-Drink Guide to Success at Legal Networking Events
They say to never have more than one drink while you're at a professional event. They're obviously wrong.
4. Why Lawyers Should Publish
The legal practice is largely a written practice, which is good news for attorneys who don't love networking: write, instead. Writing outside of a legal context is a great way to get your name out there and establish yourself as an expert in your field. And there are plenty of opportunities to put your work out there to get noticed. It certainly beats handing out hundreds of business cards.
5. How to Land a Speaking Engagement
Have you been to a professional event where everyone hovers around the speaker at the end, trying desperately to get a word in or make a connection? Don't be one of those guys. Be the one others are swarming to. After all, networking is easier when others are coming to you. Here's how you can get started.
Related Resources:
- Improve your law practice with FindLaw's Law Firm Management Resources (FindLaw Practice Management)
- Attn Lawyers: Networking Tips That Work (FindLaw's Strategist)
- An Older Attorney's Guide to Ethical Social Networking (FindLaw's Strategist)
- Top 3 Networking Tips for Solo Practitioners (FindLaw's Strategist)