Wednesday, August 27, 2008

How Do I Qualify For A Networking Event?

In order to qualify for a BLS Networking Event, you must follow these steps:
  1. Come to the appropriate meeting. If you want to meet with a real estate attorney, you must come to the BLS Real Estate Lunch Forum (not, say, the Transactional Forum). This will lay the groundwork for your individual meeting with a practicing attorney in the field. If you cannot attend the appropriate Forum, send us an email and we will make alternative arrangements.
  2. Sign up at the meeting. We require a name, cell phone number, and email address, along with a general idea of when you are available (i.e. MTW lunch, R mid-morning coffee).
  3. Contact your attorney and set up a meeting. We will provide you with contact information for an attorney. Send a polite email to your attorney (think of this as your cover letter), telling him a bit about yourself and letting him know what your availability is. Be flexible.
  4. Meet your attorney.
  5. Report back to BLS. You will be provided with a BLS feedback form via email. Fill it out and return it. This is mandatory.

Networking Event Guidelines

The following guidelines are mandatory for all BLS members attending a networking event. These rules are in place to ensure that BLS Events are a high-quality experience for both students and contributing attorneys. We encourage you to contact us with any questions you may have.

Be Punctual:
The attorney you are meeting, in all likelihood, bills a significant amount fo

Offer to Pay:
Come with the expectation that you will buy lunch/coffee -- for both of you. Remember that this is a professional who is doing you a service. A meal is a small price to pay for meaningful advice and a good contact.

Dress Appropriately:
Business casual, at a minimum. For men, business casual is a button down and khakis; jeans and short-sleeved shirts are not appropriate. Shave, shower, etc. Women should wear dress pants and a button down or sweater.

Have Questions:
Show up with at least 4-5 prepared questions, and not of the "So, what do you do?" variety. If in doubt, ask a BLS executive member for help.