Networking as a trainee: a new perspective

Therefore, Lo and behold, opportunities began to arise from as early as the first month into my training contract to accompany my supervising partner to external networking events. The first of these such events was at the Knight Frank Summer BBQ.

Like many newcomers to the professional world before me, I was nervous in anticipation of what I thought was my first experience networking. However, I was given some excellent advice which altered my perspective from fearing to enjoying the experience: if you throw yourself into it and enjoy yourself, the worst thing that can happen is you end up having some good conversations, meet some wonderful people and maybe even make a new friend. 

This nugget of gold from the outset has helped to shape my mindset ever since and carries the additional benefit of making you more approachable at such events as the cherry on top. By applying this perspective, networking is transformed into an exciting activity with great opportunities as opposed to something intimidating. Furthermore, this revelation is accompanied by the realisation that everyone has networked at some point without knowing it and there really isn’t such a thing as a ‘first time’!

Since starting my training contract I have been presented with the amazing opportunities to accompany my supervising partner to the Knight Frank summer BBQ, The Federation of Private Renters Association’s AGM and drinks hosted by the Association of Leasehold Enfranchisement Practitioners.

Through these events I had the opportunity to meet a broad range of brilliant people from leaseholders to surveyors to other solicitors. It has helped me to feel immersed within the practice area within a short expanse of time.

Furthermore, I was afforded a glimpse at how instructions can be attained from such events whilst attending the FPRA AGM where I discussed RTM with leaseholder members of such companies.

Commonly networking is accompanied by connotations of external facing, work-related discussion. Whilst this remains an important feature, networking can also encapsulate improving relationships with colleagues through work events, conferences and social activities. 

Whilst the very nature of having different practice areas within a firm has the potential to lead to a disjointed environment, this is not the case at Russell-Cooke and is a hurdle that is tackled superbly, creating a unity that is a driving force in the positive culture.

As a trainee at Russell-Cooke you are provided with ample opportunity to meet and engage with the members of different teams through conferences, training and other events. Highlights being a festive gathering with mince pies, mulled wine and songs recently hosted by the charity team, the firm’s annual quiz, the executives’ conference and the recent Property Litigation and Enfranchisement Christmas do.

Personally, I have also participated in the Russell-Cooke football on Tuesdays, The Walk the Thames and the board game club finding these as an excellent avenue to meet new people.

The executives’ conference, attended by all associate solicitors at Russell-Cooke, was brilliant and it was a pleasure to meet fantastic people and an interesting insight to discuss work outside of the scope of my current seat whilst telling people about my experiences too.

Joseph Newton is currently a first-seat trainee in the enfranchisement team which sits within the residential property team.