Your First Networking Event

By: Kandice Thorn

I have been approached by several students recently who were preparing to attend their first networking events. I'm using the term "networking events" to broadly refer to conferences, panel discussions, "meet and greet" events, or anything else that will attract professionals with whom you may want to build a professional relationship.


Attending your first networking event can be intimidating. You might not know what to wear, what to say, or how to walk up to a stranger and start a conversation. The good news is that it gets easier every time you do it. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Don't put too much pressure on yourself. For the first event, it's okay to be an observer. Watch how people dress, how they interact with one another. Consider yourself a social scientist observing what groups of lawyers do when trapped in a conference room. You are gathering information that will be useful to you the next time around. 
• It's better to be overdressed than under-dressed. Ideally, you'd be dressed perfectly appropriately for the setting. But if you aren't sure what "ideal" for a particular event, remember that being overdressed shows that you care and are trying to make a good impression; being under-dressed conveys that you are lazy or don't care. Most people are coming from work to attend networking events, so they will be dressed professionally. For most events that are held at a law firm, a suit will be appropriate for both men and women. For events at bar associations, a suit will also be appropriate, though you could opt for business casual attire (a collared shirt and slacks for men, a blouse and skirt or slacks for women). 
• Don't be late.  It's not bad form to be a few minutes early.  While nobody enjoys being the first one there, it may give you a good opportunity to network with other early birds in a more low key setting. 

The most important thing is not to expect perfection the first time around. Networking in professional social settings is an art that takes a long time to perfect. Keep at it and you'll find your confidence growing rapidly.