Throughout my first year of law school, I’ve spent the little free time I’ve had (between writing memos and briefing cases) attending networking events and panels. To help other future sport lawyers, I’ve compiled a short list of the most-repeated advice I’ve heard:
- Networking is HUGE. I know, we’ve all heard it time and time again. “If you want a job in sports, you have to go out and meet people!” “It’s all about who you know!” To be honest, the most beneficial connections I’ve made this first year were those I cold emailed or connected with on LinkedIn after attending a panel they spoke at. Don’t be shy, people ARE willing to help you because they’ve been in your shoes.
- Soft skills matter! Everyone wants to be the top student in their class, get the best grades, secure the best internships, etc., but something people seem to forget about? Those soft skills like respect, integrity, honesty, and humility. Every lawyer went to law school. Every lawyer passed the bar. Not every lawyer treats others with respect and makes them want to work with you. Be approachable.
- Now, I know I said soft skills are super important, but you are a law student. Learn as much as you can. Sports lawyers see a variety of law fields every day. There is little time for a team or firm to train you, so get that experience and know the law. Learn how to apply it to sports. Sharpen those writing skills. Take classes outside of your comfort zone. Most of all, keep in touch with your classmates: you never know when you’ll need someone who’s an expert in another field.
- Demonstrate your interest. Interviews do not want to hear how much you love football, or how your love of sports makes you different from any other candidate. Let your dedication show instead of telling everyone how much you want this. Follow sports business and legal trends. Volunteer at bowl games. Get something on your resume that shows the interviewer a tangible example of your interest. Something you can do right now? Get involved with your school’s sports law society!
- Lastly, it’s all in the details. Don’t let a spelling, grammar, or punctuation issue prevent you from securing that internship. Make each interaction personal and memorable. Stop sending the same cover letters to everyone! Mention specific topics you spoke about in your interview in your thank-you notes. Don’t just rely on spell-check, make the effort to read everything through again.
We’re heading into a competitive field with limited opportunities. Remember: just because other lawyers want the job doesn’t mean YOU can’t be the one to get it. Get networking, stay humble, learn the law, get involved, re-read your resume. Good luck!