Professionals thrive on their networks, and legal support staff are no exception. You already know that the connections you build through work make it possible for you to complete projects; you can also leverage those connections to help you find a new legal support position or expand your career in the position you currently have.
Here are a few ways to start building a powerful professional network that will help you move your legal support career forward:
- Dust off your social media presence. If you’re looking for a job, you may have already “cleaned up” your profiles for professional eyes. By participating on social media sites like LinkedIn, however, you also start to build a professional presence and connect with other professionals who are doing the same. You also get the opportunity to weigh in on conversations where you can make a real contribution, allowing you to demonstrate your competence in your strongest areas.
- Reconnect with old friends. Make lists: current and former colleagues, friends, former instructors, members of associations you have joined, people you’ve met through volunteer work. Chances are good that many of these people remember you and would appreciate a brief phone call or email just to get in touch. Start with the people most likely to be able to help you connect with the job postings or resources you’re looking for. Offer to get together for coffee, lunch, or a brief chat. Maintaining these connections can help you open doors you might not otherwise have thought to knock on.
- Work with a recruiter. A recruiting firm that specializes in placing legal support staff connects you automatically to a vast network of law firms, legal departments, and professionals in your field. Whether you’re between positions or are open to a new legal support position if the right one appears, chances are good that your recruiter knows of an opening that fits your career goals and work style. For easy access to news, job postings, and other updates, consider connecting with recruiting firms like Kent Legal on LinkedIn.
At Kent Legal, connecting legal support professionals to our extensive Toronto-area professional network is just one of the supports we offer job seekers. Contact us today to learn more!
