Networking Opportunities at Legal Events: How to Make the Most of Them

Legal events can be a great opportunity to network and make business contacts, but the key is to attend with a plan of action. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your networking opportunities at legal events.

1. Maximise your Networking

Before the event, research which professionals, potential partners or companies will be present. Make a list of people you’d like to meet and make sure to allocate time to meet each of them. Use social media to connect before the event even begins. Take advantage of legal tech events to come up with innovative ideas to network better.

2. Prepare your Pitch

You may only have a few minutes to talk to someone at an event, so make sure you make the most of it. Prepare a short but effective elevator pitch to give people an idea of what your organization is about and have some solid follow-up questions ready.

3. Follow Up Contacts

It’s not enough to just meet people at the events – a critical step is to follow up afterward. Use the contact details you’ve been provided with and make sure to check in with them after the event. Offering your expertise to contacts or providing useful resources are great ways to stay connected with them.

4. Leverage Legal Tech Events

Today, more and more events are technology driven. Leverage legal tech events to better interact with other lawyers, develop relationships with legal professionals and connect with potential customers. Technology offers attorneys plenty of ways to connect, interact and grow their network.

5. Make the Most of Near Misses

It’s not only the people you get to speak to that matter – don’t neglect the speakers or other organizers. Many successful lawyer networks have been formed around ‘near misses’ – people who may have briefly mentioned their work or business but weren’t able to follow up. If a speaker or other attendee catches your eye, make sure to take down their contact details or connect with them afterward.

In conclusion, taking the time to research and prepare ahead, connecting with professionals before and after the event, leveraging legal tech events, and making the most of ‘near misses’ can all help to maximize the benefits of attending legal events.

What are some tips for making the most of networking opportunities at legal events?

1. Reach out in advance – Connect with other attendees on LinkedIn before the event to start the conversation and develop connections before you arrive.

2. Dress to impress – The right outfit can make a great first impression. Dress as though you would if you were attending a job interview.

3. Set your agenda – Have a sales pitch ready and know what type of contacts you are hoping to make.

4. Arrive prepared – Bring copies of your business cards, a notepad, a pen and a list of questions you would like to ask.

5. Be an active listener – Make a point of listening more than you speak. Focus on understanding the needs of the other people in the room.

6. Follow up – Don’t forget to follow up on contacts you made at the event. Send emails or connect with people on LinkedIn a few days after the event, thank them for their time and ask for further interaction.

7. Keep learning – After the event, make sure to review what you’ve learned and use your new contacts and knowledge to benefit your own career.