Calling Young Women Professionals!! How to Build Your Book of Business NOW!!!

(pictured: legal marketing consultant Renee Barrett)

The real guru on social networking is right here in Los Angeles and one of the most active members of the Professional Women's Network of Southern California, Renee Barrett. You couldn't make a better investment in your career -- as well as, but not necessarily for your law firm's well being -- by hiring Renee to give you marketing advice now. If you work for an AmLaw100 firm, Renee has been advising your law firms for many years. Let her put your firm's rainmaker's knowledge into your own hands! If you're not, however, quite ready to devote a couple of hours and a few hundred dollars to yourself, here's a little advice from The Complete Lawyer's Young Attorney Marketing Guru, Dawn Wagenaar.

Choose Strategy Over Volume

You probably realize that networking is not a race to pass out the most business cards. To meet the right people, you need to understand where and how your firm gets clients. Depending on your area of practice, you may get leads from clients, other attorneys, or related advisors such as CPAs and financial professionals.

These days, professionals in their 20s and early 30s post profiles on social networking sites. You can leverage this trend—just as employers do—in two ways:

Search for young professionals who are in your target industries and your local market. Connect virtually or set up a meeting.

Design your profile like an online résumé. In addition to personal interests, include relevant career and educational facts. Post a tasteful photo. Avoid any information or graphics that may embarrass you later.

Remember, employers and recruiters are screening these sites. Many bar associations and civic organizations offer new lawyer sections and young professionals groups. These are great places to meet other associates like yourself — but don’t limit yourself. Find out where young accountants, bankers and entrepreneurs network. Choose organizations that invite a mix of professionals who match your firm’s referral base.