Do you ever think about spending time networking? Are you uncomfortable talking with strangers or need more time to network? Is your practice strong enough that you do not need to invest time and energy in networking?

In my career, I have struggled with all those questions. I often wondered if I could network well or if it was worth it. But I have learned that one of the most critical aspects of our growth, both individually and professionally, is having an organized, dedicated networking program.

In this newsletter, I will explain why networking is so important, review the most common objections, and discuss how we can still network well even if we are introverted or lack time! I will also discuss the most common characteristics of a good network and lay out tangible steps to help you be a better networker. 

Why Is Networking Important To Us?

We often work so hard. In a world of ‘first things first,” we delay or avoid networking because other activities seem more important. But networking can be so critical to our practice in so many ways, including these:

1. Professional Development: Networking allows us to expand our knowledge, learn from others in our field, and stay up-to-date with our practice area's latest developments and trends. When I reinvented myself as a family law attorney, I learned much from the other lawyers I connected with. 

2. Career Advancement: Networking can help us build meaningful relationships with potential employers, clients, and colleagues, which can lead to new job opportunities and an increased likelihood of success in our careers.

3. Referral Generation: Networking can help us build a referral network of trusted colleagues and clients who can refer business to us when the opportunity arises. Have you often received referrals from other attorneys? I know I have.

4. Reputation Building: Networking allows us to build our reputation and establish ourselves as experts in our field, which can enhance our credibility and increase our visibility.

5. Collaboration: Networking provides opportunities for us to collaborate with others on projects, cases, and initiatives, which can lead to new ideas, innovative solutions, and increased success.

6. Personal Growth: Networking allows us to connect with others who share our interests and goals, which can help us grow personally and professionally.

7. Access to Information and Resources: Networking provides access to information and resources that may not be otherwise available, including unique legal issues or background on a new matter we are handling. 

8. Increased Confidence and Skills: Networking can help attorneys develop and refine their communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, which can increase their confidence and effectiveness in their professional and personal lives. We can grow so much from our networking. 

Networking is an integral part of our professional development and success. By building strong relationships and expanding our network, we can increase our chances of success in our careers and achieve our professional and personal goals.

Common Objections to Networking

There are so many networking benefits, yet many of us hesitate to actively develop a networking program. Why is that? Here are some of the leading reasons:

1. Lack of time: Many attorneys feel they need more time to devote to networking, given their demanding schedules and workloads.

2. Introversion: Some attorneys are naturally introverted and may feel uncomfortable or anxious in large groups or social situations.

3. Fear of rejection: Some attorneys may feel they lack the confidence to network effectively and may fear rejection or being seen as pushy.

4. Perception of networking as inauthentic: Some attorneys may view it as insincere and may feel that they would rather build relationships more organically and naturally.

5. Preference for solitary work: Some attorneys may prefer to work independently and may not see the value in networking.

6. Lack of clear goals: Without clear goals and a sense of purpose, some attorneys may feel that networking is aimless and not worth their time.

Two of the most common objections we make to networking are being introverted and lacking time. Both can be overcome.

How Can Introverts Effectively Network?

Yes, introverts can network successfully. While networking can be challenging for introverts, who may feel more comfortable in smaller, quieter settings, building solid relationships and achieving their networking goals is still possible. Here are some tips for introverts:

1. Plan ahead: Prepare for networking events by researching the attendees and the topics that will be discussed, so you can be more comfortable and confident in your interactions.

2. Find your niche: Attend networking events that align with your interests and goals, so you can connect with like-minded individuals who share your passions.

3. Focus on quality over quantity: Rather than trying to meet as many people as possible, build deeper relationships with fewer individuals.

4. Be yourself: Authenticity is critical to building solid relationships, so be true to yourself and let your personality shine through in your interactions.

5. Listen actively: Pay attention to what others say and ask questions to show interest in their perspectives and experiences.

6. Take breaks: If you become overwhelmed or need to recharge, it's okay to step away from the event and spend some time alone.

By incorporating these tips into your networking strategy, introverts can successfully build relationships and achieve their networking goals. Remember, it's not about being the most outgoing person in the room but about connecting with others genuinely and meaningfully.

How Do We Network When Time Is So Short?

So many of us say, “I am so busy; I do not have enough time to network!” Networking can be a time-intensive activity, but it's possible to be effective even with limited time. Here are some tips for maximizing your networking efforts in a limited time frame:

1. Prioritize: Identify the most important events and individuals to connect with and focus your time and energy on these.

2. Make the most of online networking: Utilize online tools such as LinkedIn, social media, or your professional networks to connect with others and expand your network.

3. Be strategic: When you attend events, focus on building relationships with individuals likely to be most beneficial to your career goals.

4. Follow up promptly: After meeting someone new, follow up with them to maintain the connection and strengthen the relationship.

5. Leverage your existing relationships: Utilize your existing relationships to expand your network by asking for introductions to others in their network who may be relevant to your goals.

6. Be efficient: Make the most of your time at events by coming prepared with talking points, questions, and a plan for the types of individuals you want to connect with.

By incorporating these tips into your networking strategy, you can be effective even with limited time. Remember, it's not about the number of events you attend or people you meet but the quality of the relationships you build.

What Are The Characteristics of a Good Networker?

These are some of the most important traits of a good networker, and all of us are capable of each of these:

1. Strong Communication Skills: Good networkers have excellent communication skills, including the ability to listen actively, ask insightful questions, and express themselves clearly and concisely.

2. Empathy: Good networkers can put themselves in other people's shoes and understand their perspectives, which helps them to build strong, genuine relationships.

3. Authenticity: Good networkers are genuine and authentic in their interactions with others, which helps them to build trust and credibility.

4. Enthusiasm: Good networkers are enthusiastic about the people they meet and the opportunities they have to connect with others, which makes them more engaging and likable.

5. Adaptability: Good networkers can adapt their communication style to different people and situations, which helps them to build relationships with a wide range of individuals.

6. Strategic Thinking: Good networkers have a strategic mindset and can identify opportunities to build relationships that will benefit them and the people they are connecting with.

7. Follow-Through: Good networkers are reliable and follow through on their commitments, which helps to build trust and credibility in their relationships.

8. Networking Etiquette: Good networkers understand the importance of etiquette in networking, such as being respectful of others' time, following up promptly, and avoiding pushy or self-promoting behavior.

By developing these characteristics and consistently demonstrating them in our interactions with others, we can become effective and well-regarded networkers in the legal community.

How Can We Become Better Networkers?

It seems daunting, doesn’t it? We wonder if we are capable of networking effectively. But if we realize the importance and want to get started, how do we? Here are some steps:

1. Set clear goals: Determine what you want to achieve through networking and identify the specific types of people and organizations you want to connect with.

2. Get involved: Participate in events and organizations that align with your goals and interests, and seek opportunities to meet new people and engage in meaningful conversations.

3. Be prepared: Research the people and organizations you want to connect with, and prepare talking points and questions to help facilitate conversation.

4. Be yourself: Authenticity is key to building strong relationships, so be genuine in your interactions and let your personality shine through.

5. Listen actively: Pay attention to what others say and ask questions to show interest in their perspectives and experiences.

6. Follow up: After meeting someone new, follow up with them promptly to maintain the connection and strengthen the relationship.

7. Continuously improve: Regularly reflect on your networking skills and seek out opportunities for growth and improvement, such as attending networking events, reading books on networking, or taking courses.

Can’t we all do that? By incorporating these steps into our networking strategy, you can become a more effective and successful networker and build strong relationships that benefit you personally and professionally. It is the key to growth, both individually and in our practice.