I recently received the following question from a second year associate from a large, global law firm:
How can I build my self confidence when networking with lawyers? I’m normally a really self-confident person, but I’ve found that around lawyers, I can’t escape feeling like a mere second-year associate with few “lawyering” skills to offer. I really enjoy practicing law but when I talk with partners working in the areas that I think I might want to pursue in the future I have trouble summoning the confidence to have intelligent, productive conversations. I want to start to establish myself, what should I do?
My answer:
Right now you are a second year and it is totally normal to feel “new” when it comes to being a firm lawyer — in fact, you are. So, I would not try to connect with people by trying to act like an experienced lawyer. Instead enjoy talking to people about being at the beginning of your career. Ask them questions about when they were surer about their direction, what they did to be successful, if they were in your shoes what would they be doing at this time in their career. Asking smart career questions is impressive. It shows you are curious, interested and motivated. It is called “Talking with a Beginner’s Mind.” Use that to connect and you will make many relationships — some with individuals who become invested in you and that is what you want!