I was recently invited back to Georgetown Law to participate in a panel for incoming LL.M. students. Like every responsible event right now, this panel was held virtually.
The theme was how LL.M. students can best navigate this (not so new) virtual environment for job-hunting purposes.
My specific topic was social media and online networking, which I am probably underqualified to speak about since I spend much of my time blogging about dogs and drag brunches. However, these are my tips for maintaining a web presence as an LL.M. candidate:
- Audit: Google yourself and clean up any old or unprofessional social profiles, photos, or other content.
- Update LinkedIn: Have an updated, public LinkedIn profile with a professional head shot. Routinely add classmates as you interact with them.
- Reach out: Don’t be afraid to ask recent Georgetown alumni for a 15-minute Zoom meeting or call to introduce yourself and ask for advice. The school maintains a list of attorneys who said they’d be open to this, including myself!
And no, contacting me via Twitter, LinkedIn or this website is not weird — plenty of current and future LL.M. candidates do this. I am happy to help — just don’t show up unannounced at my apartment doorstep and it’ll be fine.
For bonus points:
- Create a personal website via WordPress.com that serves as a simple online resume.
- Engage on social media. You can have a robust social media presence and still be employable.
Having any online presence is never free from risk. However, the best way to stay out of trouble is to listen more than you talk, and trend toward positivity — use platforms to express gratitude rather than complaints.
Also remember that even a bland social media presence can have a beneficial “humanizing” effect when potential employers Google your name. And, putting yourself out there not only benefits yourself, but can also serve as a resource for future LL.M. (or law) students. Trust me, it’s worth it.
No Comments