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October 30, 2008
Do Not Underestimate the Power of Networking!
Last week the Director of Employer Outreach, Francie Fields, was in Chicago meeting with employers and alumni. With recent developments on Wall Street and in the economy, now is the time to pull out all the tricks up your sleeve. What does that mean? NETWORK! Utilize CWRU Alumni, attend networking events, attend CLEs and reach out to attorneys who practice in areas of the law that interest you.
It is so important to get out there and speak to as many people as you can. Francie spoke with several alumni in Chicago who were in disbelief that current Case Western students have not contacted them to learn about the Chicago market. This is not the first time we have heard from alumni that they feel underutilized. So stop by the CSO to speak to a counselor about where you want to live and what type of law you are interested in learning more about. The CSO counselors will provide you with alumni lists and advice on who to contact. Take the list and research the alumni to see what type of law they practice.
Send a short e-mail or make a quick phone call and request an informative meeting. Remember that you are requesting a networking meeting and that you should not simply request a job. The alumni you may meet may not be in a position to hire you but they may know people who can so be on don’t miss any opportunity to make a connection. Never make assumptions about the lawyer or what they do. Just ask, what do you do? What does a typical day look like for you? Do you like your job? What is your advice for a student like me searching for similar employment? What type of networking events do you think I should attend if I am interested in corporate law? For a list of suggested informational interview questions stop by the CSO.
Remember alumni were just like you a few years ago and they understand the trials and tribulations of searching for employment. In the not so near future you will be an attorney and you will need to be able to relate to your adversaries, clients and co-workers. So get out there and NETWORK! NETWORK! NETWORK!
The Director of Programming, Sarah Beznoska, is working hard to put together informative presentations for you. In the weekly CSO e-letter, “The Record,” upcoming CSO events are highlighted. Make sure to attend CSO events that will assist you in networking!
Posted by kcc17 at October 30, 2008 04:32 PM