Marketing yourself: what you need to know to stand out from the crowd, Part 1

1. Increase your skills: If it has been awhile since you attended school, take the time to brush up on your skills—or find new ones. Depending upon your attorney’s specialties, you might take a course on medical terms or chemistry—or basics such as bankruptcy or will and probate. If taking a college class is more than you’re able to tackle right now, find some CLE courses or seminars in your area.

2. Think of others: If an attorney or paralegal you meet at a conference, in a class, at a meeting mentions an important meeting coming up, record the date and to send them an email wishing them luck. “Those who surround themselves with a genuine network built on sincerity and mutual value tend to be more successful.” (Ari L. Kaplan, Esq.)

You may also take advantage of Google Alert. Add individuals you meet (or those in your firm) to Google Alert; it will advise you whenever they are mentioned online. This will give you another opportunity to touch base, offering an email or note recognizing their accomplishment.

Thinking of others is not only personally gratifying, but building relationships “will enhance your career and business development prospects.” (Kaplan)

3. Get involved: You can’t network if you sit at your computer all day. Find people who have similar interests. Check out community events, local business organizations, and law-related conferences.


Check back soon for part 2 on how to market yourself.

(You can find more on this topic from www.LegalAssistantToday.com March/April 2009 in an article by Ari L. Kaplan entitled Marketing Yourself.)