With the upcoming holidays, there are two things you can do to incorporate into your networking: events and coffee conversations.
There are lots of special events at this time of year -- fundraisers, holiday parties, and employer outreach events. Keep an eye on the Symplicity calendar, various bar association, and Illinois Legal Aid Online calendars to make sure you don't miss out on these opportunities?
Can't afford the swankier soirees? Reach out to volunteer to run the registration table or help in some other way. Don't forget to offer to forego the dinner and drinks in those offers, so you really aren't costing the organization anything. You should also reach out to attorneys directly to set up a coffee conversation -- the opportunity to learn more about that person's practice area and how they build their career. Set up a few of these over winter break as part of your career exploration and networking plan.
