Networking

14A_8241 - webIf you were allowed only one method of searching for your ideal career position, no matter the profession, the person, the era, or the goal, you should choose networking before any other. Networking is a technique that guides you to intentionally develop relationships and get to know people who can expand your knowledge and awareness about different things, especially (for our purpose here) the legal profession. Networking is simply the most important strategy for:

  • Successfully exploring the legal profession – including understanding career options that exist both inside and outside the profession, getting a better sense of the different specialty areas of law open to you, gaining insights on future developments in the profession, developing contacts, and finding job openings
  • Developing your professional career after graduation, including building your client base.

You have chosen to enter a profession that, if you are to be successful, is all about developing an ever-widening circle of relationships. In Arkansas and every other state, effective networking will be your key to success. Start honing your skills now. Be determined to understand the process and recognize the value it has for enabling you to find happiness and stability in your professional life. Intentionally use networking to explore your intended profession. Choose to use this time to get involved in and perfect the process. Networking is the ultimate job search strategy, so don’t shy away from it.

It is never too late to start networking. Learn and use the networking process effectively and watch doors open to a brighter future. Many networking opportunities will be available to you including:

  • UALR Bowen Professional Mentor Program
  • Law School and other local, regional and national careers fairs (Bowen Career Services Networking Fair, UALR main campus fairs, and AR Workforce Services Job Fair to name a few)
  • Alumni Office Dine-Arounds
  • Career Services sponsored panel discussions
  • Student organization sponsored programs
  • Arkansas Bar Association sponsored continuing legal education programs
  • Arkansas Bar Association winter meeting in January
  • Arkansas Bar Association annual meeting in Hot Springs in June
  • Pulaski County Bar Association monthly luncheons each second Friday
  • Arkansas Association of Women Lawyers’ monthly meetings and CLEs
  • Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association activities
  • Law School faculty: full-time and adjuncts
  • Attorneys utilizing the UALR/Pulaski County Bar Law Library
  • Law firms’ continuing legal education programs in the Friday Courtroom
  • The Winter Banquet for Arkansas Bar Foundation scholarship recipients each spring semester

A note on networking