Legal Networking and How to Expand Your Professional Contacts in Australia

In this article, we discuss how building, nurturing and maintaining your network can help you stand out from the crowd. A well thought out network can deliver you opportunities to learn, grow and even take next career steps over time. It also helps you make a short list for potential employers!  

As a specialist legal industry recruiter here in Australia, we have often seen firsthand how effective networking can elevate a legal career. Networking is not just about accumulating business cards or LinkedIn connections; it is about building genuine relationships that can lead to career opportunities, attract clients, foster collaborations, and deliver professional growth. 

We are regularly asked by our legal industry clients to find them candidates that have well established legal connections. It is our advice to invest in and nurture this important piece of your professional life over the course of your career. One thing we see time and again from the talented legal candidates that we talk to every day, is that successful networking takes a bit of effort, interest and authenticity! 

In general, we suggest taking the following approach:

Be Genuine and Approachable

Authenticity goes a long way in building lasting relationships. Be genuinely interested in others and listen more than you speak. 

Follow Up

Always follow up with new contacts within a few days of meeting them. A simple email or LinkedIn message thanking them for the conversation and suggesting a future meet-up can solidify the connection.

Nurture and Maintain your Network

Networking is an ongoing process. Regularly check in with your contacts, share useful information, and offer help when possible. This keeps your network active and engaged.

Diversify your Network

Do not limit your network to people within your immediate field. Consider diversifying by connecting with professionals from different legal sectors, industries, and even geographical locations.

Should you Network Online or In Person?

The answer is both! We have included in this article strategies for both in-person and online networking to help you expand your professional contacts in the Australian legal industry.

In-Person Networking

Attend Legal Conferences and Seminars

Legal conferences and seminars are prime opportunities to meet professionals from various legal sectors. Events such as the Australian Legal Practice Management Association (ALPMA) Summit or the Australian Corporate Lawyers Association (ACLA) events offer a platform to learn about industry trends while connecting with peers.

Consider preparing for conferences by researching attendees and speakers. Don’t just talk to the people who you already know, make a concerted effort to make new connections. Some people suggest having a few talking points ready to go to help you break the ice with new people. We suggest that you always try to follow up with new contacts after the event whether this be via connecting with them on LinkedIn or sending them an email that reminds them of your conversation and suggesting you would like to stay in touch. 

Join Professional Associations

Many associations provide networking events, continuing professional development (CPD) courses, and social gatherings. Membership often includes access to exclusive events where you can meet other members of the legal profession.

Consider joining associations like the Law Society in your home state or one of the organisations on this list from the Legal Practitioner’s Liability Committee here. 

If you can spare the time getting involved in a legal industry committee or volunteer to help at industry events will increase your visibility and make deeper connections. 

Leverage Alumni Networks

Your university alumni network is a valuable resource. Many universities such as the University of Melbourne, Monash University, and other interstate have active alumni associations that host networking events, reunions, and mentorship programs.

Consider attending alumni events and participating in mentorship programs either as a mentor or mentee. This can lead to long-lasting professional relationships that would otherwise have been unavailable to you.

Engage in Community and Pro Bono Work

Participating in community service or pro bono work not only gives back to society but also helps you meet like-minded industry professionals. Organisations such as Justice Connect and the Australian Pro Bono Centre offer opportunities to network while making a difference to those who really need your help. 

Choose causes that you are passionate about, as authenticity and enthusiasm will help you build stronger connections.

Online Networking

Optimise and Leverage your LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn is an essential tool for legal professionals. We suggest ensuring that your profile is up to date, with a professional photo, detailed experience, and a compelling “About” section. LinkedIn has a vast number of groups relating to the Australian legal industry and you can discover these by searching for relevant terms in the search bar and then clicking on Groups. Participating in discussions can help raise your profile. 

You might consider regularly sharing articles relevant to your area of specialisation or commenting on posts from your connections. Endorsing your networks skills on LinkedIn can be another great way of interacting and reconnecting. 

Participate in Legal Forums and Webinars

Websites like Lawyers Weekly, Lexology and ALPMA regularly host forums and webinars where legal professionals discuss current issues and trends. Participating in these discussions can help you connect with peers and experts in your field.

Ensure that you engage respectfully and thoughtfully by asking relevant questions and sharing value adding insights. You could also then follow up with speakers or participants whose viewpoints you found interesting.

Join Online Professional Groups

Platforms such as Meetup or Eventbrite often feature groups and events for legal professionals. Joining these groups can help you find and participate in virtual networking events.

By leveraging both in-person and online networking strategies, you can significantly expand your professional contacts in the Australian legal industry. Remember, the key to effective networking is building genuine relationships that can mutually benefit both parties involved. You may even be surprised by what your well cultivated, nurtured, authentic network delivers you over time including new professional opportunities and even professional growth! 

Should you like a confidential discussion about your next legal industry career opportunity please get in touch at [email protected]. We are specialists and recruit Lawyers, Support staff and HR professionals in Melbourne, Australia.