Getting Your Name out (Necessary to Nab Unposted Positions)

Yes lawyers suck at networking. They are used to putting their heads down, following rules, and meeting deadlines, not getting their name out. But folks who want highly sought after, often unposted jobs (e.g., leading a function or the top spot at a private company) need to get known for their work. Here’s what to do:

1. Solve problems in the space that interests you. Impress lawyers and business folks there.
2. Get your name out. When execs want to hire, they will ask around for recommendations, so your name has to come up. Stay in touch with clients you’ve helped before so they remember what you’ve done. If you are solving problems super quietly in the background, it’s like a tree falling in the forest when no one is around (Did the tree make a sound? Who knows?). Instead of toiling in obscurity, write papers, speak on panels, advise clients directly (not just through a manager), work with top firms solving the problem that interests you, etc. You could ask friends to amplify your work, and you could do the same for them, e.g., share their articles on LinkedIn, publicly congratulate them on wins, or tell them about opportunities.
3. Tell trusted friends and colleagues you are open to specific jobs. If you have been laboring away for years at your current employer, people will not approach you if they don’t think you’re interested. They cannot read your minds so you need to tell folks your dream job. For friends who have the job you want, tell them to refer recruiters and leads your way.
4. Target opportunities. Follow what these employers are doing, interact with key execs (at a minimum follow them on Twitter and LinkedIn and add good comments to their posts). Try to get introductions to key players. Offer up good advice or something of value so you will be top of mind when a job opens up.