Network and Socialize
There is no better place to meet like-minded professionals who face similar obstacles in their practice than at legal conferences. Taking the time to talk with other attorneys is a great way to learn more about the current state of the legal industry, share your own ideas for being successful in the market, acquire valuable business tips, and expand your network.
You may meet a fellow legal professional who knows how to avoid frustrating setbacks that you regularly face. Even better, you might meet someone who can refer clients to you because they don’t practice an area of law that you do.
On the other hand, if you regularly turn away potential clients because you don’t handle a particular case type--like personal injury--you could talk with other attendees to see if anyone is looking to take on more PI cases in your area. This allows you to meet an attorney or advocate who is not only looking for cases but pays a referral fee to get them. In this case, you can create a new revenue stream for your law firm by referring cases rather than simply turning these claimants away.
You never know when you could meet your next business partner, professional connection, employer, or referral source. Keep an open mind and take advantage of legal conference by representing your company and building your reputation within the legal community.
Attend the Social Events
Networking between sessions has its benefits, but the best time to expand your network is at the extra social events offered at conferences. Most legal conferences will host lunches, cocktail parties, or other events that are perfect for socializing with peers while discussing topics related to your practice. No matter how many blogs you read or forums you contribute to, nothing beats talking in-person with successful professionals in your field. Attend these events for the best networking opportunities at legal conferences.
Plan Ahead
Some conferences will schedule overlapping sessions or very short breaks in between. Before you get to the conference, decide which sessions will be most relevant to your practice. This way, you can make sure you don’t show up to a session late or miss out on a topic that could have been beneficial for you.
Learn About Legal Products
Many conferences have an exhibit area where several companies have set up a booth to display their law-related products and services. Your instinct may be to avoid this area at all costs, but there are numerous reasons you should visit exhibitors’ booths and learn about the services being offered.
- These companies support the organization you are a part of and offer a product which can truly help your business. Not to mention that talking with a booth representative is a quicker way to learn about the product or service compared to a demo over the phone.
- They give out free stuff. Chocolates, bottle openers, raffle prizes and more. Why not give them a few minutes of your time for the chance to walk away with a free ipad?
- Exhibitors may also be offering exclusive savings or discounts to conference attendees. This is a great opportunity to learn about useful products and potentially save more than you would anywhere else.
Overall, legal conferences can be a great place to network with other attorneys and like-minded professionals, have fun, and discover products and services that could improve your practice.
We hope to see you at the NOSSCR conference in Miami next week! If you’ll be in attendance, don’t forget to stop by one of eGeneration’s booths to take advantage of our exclusive discounts or grab a ticket to one of the two free events we are hosting at the Loews’ Miami Beach Hotel. Contact us at 617.800.0089 for more information.