Networking

Networking…how to? So you’re a first year law student (same!) with absolutely no idea how to network? Trust me…it took days and nights of research for me to figure out how to connect and network correctly. It’s like swimming through an ocean full of sharks when you’re a goldfish: scared and clueless. To put it lightly. However, networking is your best friend, and so is LinkedIn. 

Linkedin – start by developing your profile. just like you would for a job application or CV. Include all of your personal qualifications, education, courses enrolled, skills, work experience and volunteer work! And more! Whether you’re open for work or just browsing, and the most important part, a good solid insight on who you are as a person – what your passions are, where they came from, how you’ve developed them, what your aspirations are. Basically, anything that you think depicts what kind of human you are. Then, when all of that is completed, you can start to boast! Make posts on your accomplishments, aspirations, endeavours, anything that makes you…you! As well as anything that would impress your following. Updating people will strengthen your connections and make you stand out as a student and eventually as a graduate. 

Societies – Your university should have one! First, make sure to become a member of your University society and become a follower of theirs on social media, as this is where you find out about how you can become directly involved and play a role. Engaging in a society makes you an attractive candidate, but also exposes you to a mass amount of opportunities such as mooting and mock trials! If your university doesn’t have one, then set one up and become the President…even better! Or research your regional society, for example, mine is Birmingham Trainee Solicitors Society. Not only should you get involved in Law societies, but also societies that peak your general interest, such as women’s societies and likewise. 

Pro Bono – another bestie! A pro bono clinic allows you to gain hands on legal experience, as well as networking with clients and professionals. Legal pro bono clinics are unpaid opportunities for students to deal with real cases and allows them to offer legal advice to clients, free of charge. Again, your university should have one, if not, enquire about it and create one. You’ll need to register it with a recognised body, and then you can get started.

That’s all for today’s post…stay tuned for part 2!

Tay