Summer Networking for Lawyers

Now that summer is here, many of you might be more interested in planning your vacation than focusing on marketing your business. We hope you do get a good break, because it’s great for your productivity to take time to recharge and refresh, but summer is also a good time to reach out and network with others to build your business.

Below, we have compiled a list of some upcoming networking events that can help break up your business routine while you connect with new people who might become your next client, collaborator or fan who can refer business your way.

Lawyers networking

Denver offers plenty of summer networking for lawyers.

Law-specific events and seminars

Networking for lawyers, as well as seminars targeted to your legal field, are great ways to connect with your peers and seek out collaborative partners. LawBank offers events throughout the year for Denver lawyers and several other events for lawyers are offered around town.

Colorado Bar Association Solo and Small Firm Networking Event
July 8, 2014
5:30 – 7 p.m.
Stoney’s Bar and Grill
1111 Lincoln St., Denver

LawBank Brown Bag Series: Where the Clients Are
July 30, 2014
12 p.m.
LawBank Office
3900 E. Mexico Ave.
Denver, CO
LawBank Partner Jay Kamlet, a seasoned Denver lawyer, will discuss the methods he uses to acquire clients. LawBank members, contact LawBank using the link above to RSVP.

Denver Bar Association Senior’s Golf Tournament
July 30, 2014
12 – 5 p.m.
Homestead Golf Course

LawBank Guest Speaker: The Ethics of Office Sharing
August 21, 2014
12 p.m.
LawBank Office
3900 E. Mexico Ave.
Denver, CO
James Coyle, Regulation Counsel for the Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel, will speak on the ethics of office sharing. LawBank members, contact LawBank using the link above to RSVP. This event may be eligible for CLE credit.

Colorado Bar Association Solo and Small Firm BBQ and Rockies Game
August 22, 2014
4:30 – 9:30 p.m.
1860 Blake Street, Denver

General events

Branching out to network with non-lawyers occasionally will help expand your overall referral network. You never know when a new contact can help you get your foot in the door with a business or individual in need of legal counsel.

Denver Network After Work
July 15, 2014
6 – 9 p.m.
The Tavern
1949 Market St., Denver
Held at various restaurants around Denver, this monthly event draws a crowd of 200-300 people. The August event is schedule for August 12 at Fado Irish Pub.

Denver Metro Chamber Where It’s @
July 23, 2014
Mile High Station
2027 Old West Colfax, Denver
Open to non-members and geared to small businesses, this event features a combination of keynote presentations and networking.

Denver Business Journal BizMix
July 30, 2014
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
The Curtis
1405 Curtis, Denver
Limited to 200 people, this event draws a diverse mix of business professionals.

12th Annual SummerToast 2014
August 21, 2014
EXDO Event Center
1399 35th St., Denver
This annual event draws a crowd of 500 or more and is one of the biggest networking events in Denver.

For a list of additional networking groups in Denver, click here.

Networking tips

Before you go, keep these networking tips in mind:

Plan Ahead – Have a goal in mind before you arrive at the event, whether it’s to meet five new contacts or to connect with people in specific industries. A plan helps you manage your time and maintain focus in a busy networking environment.

Make Real Connections – There’s no prize for gathering the most business cards. Making quality connections counts much more than quantity. Slow down, ask questions and make eye contact.

Mingle – Look for people who are standing alone or groups who have reached a lull in conversation and introduce yourself.

Follow Up – If you ask for someone’s business card, follow up within a few days. Connect on LinkedIn and follow it with a short e-mail to remind the person of your conversation.