Making the most of networking opportunities as a trainee

The idea of networking, initially, can be something that as a trainee you feel you don’t need to focus on or something that can wait until you have qualified. Secondly, putting yourself “out there” and making those initial introductions may feel daunting and something which you are not comfortable doing in the first instance.

At Gilson Gray networking both internally and externally is something you are given the opportunity to do from day 1 and an activity which the firm actively encourages. As will be the case for the majority of incoming trainees, as someone who started their traineeship with very little legal experience and even less legal connections, you really are starting from scratch and it is great to be part of a firm who supports their trainees in building their network and professional relationships.

In your various seats, you will get the opportunity to go to networking events and conferences and engage with others in your field. For example, while in my private client seat I was part of a group that went to the Aberdeen Northern Marts Christmas Classic where we spoke to members of the farming community on estates, asset protection and a whole host of private client matters. In my corporate seat, I attended the Offshore Energies UK Legal Conference where we heard from speakers on various case law and new technologies. It’s easy as a trainee to feel out of place at these events but you’ll be pleasantly surprised about how much people value your opinion and want to hear from you. My advice is go! You get to mix with lawyers who have vast industry and practice experience and building up relations with those experienced practitioners will be invaluable going forward.

There are also plenty trainee events that you can also attend. Networking with people at the same stage and going through similar experiences is a great way to build relations moving forward. For example, I am a member of the Society of Advocates in Aberdeen which hosts its own events for trainees and NQs. These events are a great opportunity to meet other trainees and build long lasting connections. I recently attended a trainee lunch which was a great opportunity to meet with other trainees from different firms where we discussed our traineeships so far, compared our experiences and perhaps more importantly how we can organise more social events for those at our stage in our career to have the opportunity to discuss and make new connections.

Lastly, simply doing a good job on a piece of work is one of the best way make new connections. Word of mouth is very important and providing a good service will lead to (i) internally, greater opportunities; and (ii) externally, repeat business and possibly new business from new clients coming from the positive reviews of an existing client.

The information and opinions contained in this blog are for information only.  They are not intended to constitute advice and should not be relied upon or considered as a replacement for advice.  Before acting on any information contained in this blog, please seek solicitor’s advice from Gilson Gray.