Law students: I can’t emphasize enough how horrible this advice is. First of all, don’t be a jerk and “ignore” people. Nobody deserves to be ignored because they’re not “important” enough.

Also, beyond just being a good person, acting like this is counterproductive. /1 https://twitter.com/lexlanham/status/1199182117147750400

When I clerked (both at the courts of appeals & SCOTUS) there were MULTIPLE occasions when judges/justices were considering candidates who’d done all the “right” things. They’d impressed profs; judges; etc.

But the people who went to school with them didn’t like them! /2

And guess what? Those people didn’t get the jobs. Because they’d failed to treat their “non-important” peers with respect and dignity. And their peers remembered.

Seriously, this happens ALL THE TIME. People remember if you’re a jerk—and if you act like they don’t matter. /3

Here’s my actual advice for “networking” events. Go to the bar, find someone who’s standing there by themselves, and strike up a conversation. Maybe it’s a peer! Maybe it’s a lawyer who nobody thinks is important! /4

You’ll have more fun, and maybe a more interesting conversation. (A good conversation starter is “man, aren’t these events awkward?”)

That person will appreciate being talked to. And they’ll remember you. Maybe they’ll become your friend! And friends are good to have. /5

Meanwhile, the fancy important people will be surrounded by dozens of people who are clamoring for a bit of attention.

Nobody builds a real connection in that environment. And nobody’s going to say “oh I talked to that person for 30 second at an event now I’ll hire them.” /6

If you want to talk to “fancy” important people—and many fancy people are good people!—a better strategy is to send an email and ask if they’ll meet for coffee to talk about their career, & give advice.

PEOPLE LIKE THAT! And many people are happy to share with law students. /7

But for the love of God, never let ambition drive how you treat other people. Don’t rank people based on pedigree.

You’ll lose a bit of your soul. It won’t help you in the long run. And it’s totally counterproductive. /8

In short, the best career advice is to always strive to be kind. Always strive to be thoughtful. Always treat people with the respect they deserve.

It’ll pay off in the long run. And as a bonus, you won’t feel icky. /fin