by Abi Petter, Future Trainee Solicitor at Skadden.

What is networking?

‘Networking’ is one of those career buzzwords that everyone mentions but rarely defines. In the legal industry, it feels like a mandatory function, but what does it actually mean?

It is easy to think of networking as simply collecting contacts or making surface-level connections. But the real value lies in curiosity and authenticity: taking the time to speak to people, sharing opinions and knowledge can lead to lasting relationships.

In the legal profession, relationships sit at the heart of success. Firms thrive on trust and collaboration, which is why they value trainees who can communicate confidently and connect well with others. For aspiring lawyers, this might mean chatting with an associate over coffee to gain insight into their firm’s culture, speaking to graduate recruitment at a law fair to understand the qualities that they look for in future trainees, or reaching out to a fellow student on LinkedIn to share advice and experiences.

Personally, pushing myself to take advantage of networking opportunities was an invaluable aspect in securing my training contract. Coming from a non-law background, conversations with trainees and associates helped me understand the nuances of a career in commercial law. Without these interactions, it would have been much harder to appreciate the day-to-day work of a lawyer or approach interviews confidently and strategically.

Why is networking beneficial to aspiring lawyers?

1. Boosts confidence. Repeatedly engaging with new people builds confidence in expressing your interests and experiences, a skill that directly supports performance at interviews and assessment centres.
2. Exchange of knowledge. Conversations reveal firm culture, practice areas and industry trends you will not find on a website. They also expose you to new perspectives, strengthening your commercial and sectoral awareness.
3. Opportunities. A single discussion can lead to an invitation, recommendation or work experience.
4. Skill development. Networking enables you to practise communication, active listening and rapport-building, qualities that firms and interviewers value highly.
5. Support. It is no secret that the path to a training contract can be overwhelming. Connecting with those who have already been through the process can provide technical guidance and encouragement.

Where can you network?
There are many ways to start building legal connections, no matter your background:

1. At university. Attend law fairs, firm presentations and society events. Joining your law society committee is an excellent opportunity to meet graduate recruiters directly.
2. Events. Free events, such as those organised by Legal Cheek or All About Law, bring together students and lawyers in an informal, accessible setting.
3. Firm open days. A great way to learn about a firm’s culture, meet people face-to-face and speak directly with graduate recruitment.
4. Mentoring schemes. Programmes like LEAP, Aspiring Solicitors and Rare Recruitment connect you with fellow aspiring solicitors and mentors.
5. Online. LinkedIn is a fantastic platform for contacting trainees or future trainees. Following firm pages and practice area profiles keeps you updated on deals and key people.

How to network effectively.

Before the event

Research the focus of the event (for example, diversity or a specific practice area) and, if possible, who will be attending. Thoughtful preparation helps you ask informed questions and shows genuine interest.

During the event

• Arrive early. It helps you settle in, speak to organisers and avoid feeling rushed once the room fills up.
• Be genuine. Focus on natural conversation. Discussing travel or hobbies can be as memorable as legal topics. Furthermore, let your personality shine: I have found that authenticity and enthusiasm can leave a stronger impression than rehearsed answers.
• Be polite. The legal world is small. Be kind, gracious and respectful of others’ time and generosity.
• Have an exit strategy. If a conversation comes to a natural close, thank the person and move on politely: “It was lovely speaking with you, I’m going to grab a drink but hope to see you later.”
• Keep it balanced. Be curious, listen actively and try to ask poignant questions without dominating the discussion.
• Avoid hiding with friends. Bringing a friend can ease nerves but try to challenge yourself to meet new people instead of staying in your comfort zone.
• Stay present. Restrict phone usage to maintain engagement; use it only to exchange contact details, and step outside the room if you need to use it.

After the event

Follow up within a day. Connect on LinkedIn and send a short thank you message mentioning something you discussed. It helps the person remember you and shows appreciation.

A final reminder…

Networking is not something you do once to tick a box. It takes time, practice and patience, but it helps to start small. Strike up conversations with people on your course, at events, or even in the queue at the supermarket. You never know where it might lead and the more you practise, the more natural it becomes!

It is completely normal to feel nervous walking into a room full of strangers, but remember that most people there feel the same way. Take each event as an opportunity to grow your confidence, learn from others and build lasting relationships that will support you throughout your legal career. Done well, these connections gradually become stronger, and those people may grow into mentors, colleagues or even future clients.

Despite the sometimes-fearsome reputation of top law firms, I have found that the people within them are, more often than not, kind, approachable, and willing to help. Never be afraid to engage in a conversation…you never know where it might take you!