CBA Record February_March 2016

YLS Special Issue l THE COMPLETE LAWYER

7 ect only to learn that the supervisor had to do it himself or assign it to someone else. Go to lunch with someone from the office every week. Your career advisors have probably empha- sized the importance of networking in finding a job and generating business. What they might not have said is that networking never stops—and it is impor- tant to network even within your firm or office. The other attorneys you work with are a great source of information for how to succeed within the firm. Invite them to lunch—they may be more candid in an informal setting, away from the office. Also, a longer conversation lets them know more about who you are, which might make them think of you the next time they need help with a case or project. Because you are only going to be at this job for one summer (unless you receive an offer), each person you meet or work with can potentially be someone who will recommend you when it comes time to make hiring decisions. So, meet as many people as you can. Lunch is a perfect way to get to know someone better. Remember that you are not alone. New attorneys can access many great resources provided by those who have already run the gauntlet. A wealth of infor- mation is available in books and online at websites like associatesmind.com and abovethelaw.com. If you still feel stressed about landing a job or succeeding after you find one, remember that you are not alone. Your friends and classmates from law school are going through the same process. Reach out to them and try to maintain those relationships throughout your career. They will be your colleagues in the legal community once you graduate, and you never know who might become a source for job tips, referrals or other business. 8

LAW STUDENT MEMBERSHIP Membership in The Chicago Bar Association offers law students the opportunity to learn about the actual practice of law through committee participation, seminars, publications, and volunteer projects. Important networking opportunities are also available. So, whether you are looking ahead to your first law firm job or opening your own practice, the CBA is your gateway to Chicago’s legal community. Students joining August–November will have their annual dues applied toward the upcoming membership year and will receive August–November of current year free. Committees A great way to learn more about a specific practice area. Most committees meet monthly during the noon- hour at the CBA and feature expert speakers, legislative updates and case law developments. Committee membership is free, simply join the YLS committees of your choice when you sign-up for membership. For more information, visit www.chicagobar.org/committees. Seminars Take a tour of the state and federal courts, learn about deposition strategies and techniques, or find out how to effectively start your own practice. Over 120 seminars are presented each year, featuring expert speakers and comprehensive written material. Most young lawyer afternoon programs are $60 or less and law student members can attend for half-price. CBA seminars are also available on DVD and accessible online via the CBA website and theWest LegalEdcenter. Publications Get in touch with Chicago’s legal community by reading the CBA’s monthly journal, the CBA Record, and other legal guides published by the CBA. The CBA’s Legal Bookstore, the only legal bookstore in Chicago’s loop, features IICLE, LexisNexis, andmany other top legal publications.The store also stocks legal novelties, snacks, and more. Networking At CBA andYLS activities, meet and networkwith judges and lawyers who share your interests and concerns. Also, join the YLS at monthly social hours to mingle with other young lawyers. Career Resources Get a head start on your job search by exploring our online career center which has access to local and national job ads, a resume bank, career articles, career publications, and career links. The YLS also hosts several career programs each year for law students. These programs include the Law Student Interview Workshop, Government Service Career Fair, Speed Networking Events, and Lunch with Judge. Savings Save on car rentals, office supplies, magazines, and more with CBA member discount programs. Questions? Go to www.chicagobar.org or call 312/554-2135. Please Note: Law student membership is open to law students who are enrolled at ABA accredited law schools or recent law school graduates who are preparing to take the bar exam and/or are awaiting results of the bar exam. Law student membership does not apply to licensed attorneys returning to school. All new admittees in Illinois receive an offer for a free six-month membership which applies to the six months following their admission date. No refunds or pro-rated dues are issued on law student memberships. Please allow twoweeks for application processing.

Paul Geske is an associate at McGuire Law PC concentrating in civil, commercial, and class action litigation

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