Networking for Introverts - Three mindset shifts To help you Network Successfully
Hi All,
A common perception of lawyers is that they are all outspoken extroverts, but while that is true for some, introverted lawyers are just as common as extroverted lawyers. To be successful in your legal practice you need to network, but you can network very successfully even if you feel introverted, shy, anxious, nervous, or like an imposter.
We have three networking mindset shifts for you to consider when thinking about how you network.
A common perception of lawyers is that they are all outspoken extroverts, but while that is true for some, introverted lawyers are just as common as extroverted lawyers.
Mindset Shift #1 - Networking does NOT have to be in a ballroom or conference room to be successful.
When we speak with legal professionals about networking one of the things we always start out with is the following question - do you love going into a room where you don’t know anyone only to start talking about yourself? This is the traditional way people think about networking. Yes, networking can and does happen this way. But this is certainly not the only way to network. If this is the only way you think networking works then you are missing out on a world of networking. Some of the best networking contacts we have made have been a result of networking in less traditional situations.
Your everyday life gives you a world of networking opportunities - if you actually look for them. Law school gives you an opportunity for constant networking. If you are currently in law school, make the most of your time and connect with as many people as possible. If you are out of law school, take a few minutes today and reach out to three people from your law school that you have not connected with in a while.
Networking also happens at the bank, coffee shop, gym, dry cleaners, and so much more. Talk to people in your daily life, introduce yourself, learn about them, and add them to your network.
Mindset Shift #2 - Never miss an opportunity to network remotely.
Sending some type of correspondence, whether it be handwritten, email, or even text - depending on the person - is a great way to keep in contact with the people in your network. It also does not take much time out of your day. There are endless opportunities to quickly touch base with someone in between more formal meetings. Don’t let these simple things pass you by.
Reach out to someone in your network just to say hi, congratulate them on a recent accomplishment, or share something with them you think they may valuable.
Mindset Shift #3 - Stop networking.
Networking is all about building relationships. If “networking” makes you squirm - then stop. Stop thinking about what you will get from a professional relationship with someone. Stop thinking that you do not have anything to offer other professionals. Instead, work on building those relationships.
Even if you feel as though you do not have a single person in your professional network we all have relationships with other people. You know how to start, build, and maintain relationships with other people. Networking is no different.
Ready to shift your mindset and build your professional network? We have another great blog post to help you nurture the connects you make - “5 Ways You Can Follow Up and Follow Through For Your Network.”
Take your networking to the next level and start with a strategic plan. If you are ready to make networking work for you, check out our book, The Law Student’s Guide to Networking, now available on Amazon.
Have a great day!
Haley & Amy
Photo by Crazy Cake on Unsplash
Please keep in mind that your jurisdiction will have rules of professional conduct that you must follow. This discussion does not focus on the any such rules, including the rules from the jurisdiction where we practice. Rather this is a discussion of tips we have found helpful in managing client expectations in our own experiences. This should not be taken as legal advice.
We make absolutely no guarantee, expressed or implied, that by following the advice you will make any money or improve current profit, as there are several factors and variables that come into play regarding any given business or career. Primarily, results will depend on the business model, the conditions of the marketplace, the experience of the individual, and situations and elements that are beyond your control. As with any business endeavor, you assume all risk related to investment and money based on your own discretion and at your own potential expense.
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