September 4, 2009

Discussion Group Tips

We've started to give our presentations on LinkedIn Professionalism, and one of the best ways to increase your LinkedIn visibility is participating in discussions in the various groups to which you might belong. We found this in the DePaul Blackboard 'Big Hint for Online Discussion Forums.' This is great advice, which applies in all sorts of discussion forums:
  • If you’re responding to Doris’ comment, have her comment on screen when you hit “reply.”
  • Add something new. Don’t just type in: “Yeah, I agree.” Say, “Yes, and…” Or “Yes, but we need to consider…” Or,“I don’t agree, because…”
  • Edit – yes, that means correct spelling and punctuation. Draw attention to your great idea, not your poor spelling.
  • NO SHOUTING WITH CAPITALS! Use netiquette, no ‘bad’ language, no flaming, no off-color jokes.
  • Make comments about ideas, not people.
  • Need idea starters? Use these phrases in your online comment: If x, then… I agree with x; however, y seems to be... For example, ... Do you mean… Can x be compared to... We also need to consider…

Happy contributions!

September 3, 2009

Professional Development

There's a lot of discussion in the legal community about the shape and contours of legal education. One thing that isn't going to change with the economy is this: the need for professional development. So what have you done for your career lately? Attended a bar association meeting? Written a journal article? Conducted some mock or informational interviews? How about meeting with your career adviser? There's so much out there that you can do, and this is just the beginning of your long career, so getting in the habit of finding ways to continually reach out and improve yourself, your image, your network, and build your brand will serve you well for the rest of your career, no matter where it may take you.

September 2, 2009

LinkedIn on Your Resume

In general, the legal profession takes longer to embrace technology than most other fields. It is just part of the inherent conservatism of the profession. But if you are looking for non-traditional jobs or have strong recommendations in your LinkedIn profile, how can you advertise that? This article discusses pros and cons on including it in your resume, but maybe you can slip it into networking conversations or interviews as you discuss the great LinkedIn groups to which you belong. Or if you've created business cards, including it on there would be a great idea, especially because it can be your alternate resume in that networking session.

September 1, 2009

Rethinking the Questions

Many job seekers want to find the right employer for them. How about turning the question on its head and consider who else you need to add into your prospective employer list? With whom else do you need to reconnect? Thinking through your network can start with LinkedIn, but consider checking out one of our Networking titles from the Law Career Services library today!