Page 8 - Networking Receptions - Networking for Law Students Series_1 (1)

08

Networking Receptions

Take some differences into account but

don’t be beholden to them

While not a hard and fast rule, be mindful of cultural differences with regard to one’s personal
space. For instance, some people may be uncomfortable speaking with “close talkers” and such
proximity may vary depending on region or the type of area one is from. Pay attention to very subtle
cues that the other person wants you to give them some more space. Look to see if they keep
backing up from you or shifting their weight or feet. All these are possible signs that you are too close
for comfort.

Besides a handshake or a tap on the shoulder, there is really no need to touch another person,
particularly of the opposite sex. When a woman touches a man on the arm, for instance (or vice
versa), s/he may take it as s/he’s interested in pursuing a more romantic relationship. Sometimes a
person of one gender, for instance, touches and/or grabs the arm or lower back when either they
can’t quite make out everything a person of another gender is saying due to the noise in the room or
when telling a joke as a show of camaraderie. Nothing is necessarily meant by it but, upon meeting
someone for the first time, this may be inappropriate and a little uncomfortable for some individuals.
It is important to take these gender differences into consideration while networking. Make a point to
be mindful of any potential signals you may be giving off, regardless of the sexual orientation or
actual/apparent gender self-identification of either party.

Americans tend to like a lot of eye contact. You should maintain eye contact most of the time.
When asked a direct question, some law students naturally look up to the ceiling in thinking about
their answer, but this does not come across well. It looks like you’re either nervous or making the
answer up. I can’t imagine a situation where you’ll be engaging in too much discussion about
something emotionally taxing, but people tend to look down when they’re discussing something
emotional. This may have a similar effect as looking up toward the ceiling with the added assumption
that you may be ashamed of whatever it is that you’re talking about. Looking away occasionally
particularly when sipping your drink or gathering a hors d'œuvre onto your plate is acceptable but you
should maintain eye contact at least slightly more than half the time.

If at a law firm reception, talk to partners, associates, and legal staff. Research the firm and
who will be there beforehand and know a little about their background, so you’ll have something more
to talk about than your fellow students. Many students simply attend these events, but few know to
do their research beforehand. You’ll have a leg up on them. There will be legal professionals,
particularly partners or judges, at these events that everyone will want to talk to. Don’t form a line!
Talk to someone else but be careful not to look like you are chomping at the bit to go to talk to
someone “higher up” or more interesting. Although partners have more of an input with the recruiting
coordinator or hiring manager, keep in mind that the opinions of those lower on the totem pole count
too. Always keep in mind that the associates there are taking time out of their schedule to talk to you.
If you stand out in the wrong way to an associate, that can and will get back to the “higher-ups”.

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