Networking, Networking, Networking!

Comb your hair, put on a nice button up or blouse, wear your brightest smile, and get out into the legal community here in Columbus,Ohio. Often times, as students we get so caught up in the academic aspect of school, that we neglect social opportunities which are also very important to our success. Capital University Law school is awesome at alerting students to various types of networking events, legal gatherings, and various other events which students should definitely take advantage of. The Columbus legal community is very tight knit, so it is worthwhile for a student to become familiar with the individuals that compose of the community as soon as possible. With that being said, here are a few tips to keep in mind as you attend legal social events and gatherings.


Appearance
In a professional context, looks ARE everything. Here are a few suggestions to help you look your best!

• DO comb your hair. I find that it is more appropriate for those with longer hair to pull it back into a ponytail or tight bun. These styles accentuates your face, look elegant, and minimize distractions that tend to come with wearing your hair down, such as playing with it, or constantly having to push it back behind your ears etc. (I personally love the bun look! I put a little gel in it for that extra "sleek" appearance and I'm ready to go.) 
• DON'T wear excessive jewelry. In this type of scenario, less is more. It is very distracting to wear gaudy chains, or long dangly earrings. Try smaller earrings such as studs for example. I have a pair of small diamond heart shaped earrings that I tend to wear for networking events. They are not distracting, but I still get the chance to show them off by wearing my hair pulled back.
• DO wear tights or pantyhose if you are wearing a skirt or dress. It is generally frowned upon to go to these functions with bare legs. 

Etiquette 

• DO try some of the food if there are things available to eat. Chances are, most of the food will go to waste if no one eats it. Besides, it looks bad. . . almost inconsiderate if no one indulges in these things that took time, money, and thought to prepare. I'm not saying you have to eat the whole ensemble, but it wouldn't hurt to nibble on some crackers and cheese. 
• DO NOT drink excessively. Almost every legal event or function will have alcoholic beverages. If you feel so inclined to consume it, I personally do not recommend to drink more than one alcoholic beverage. You do not want to make a bad impression, and even something as subtle as how many drinks you consume could have an adverse effect on your overall impression, if you do not handle the drinks appropriately.

I hope these tips help. Happy networking!