Ever feel like networking before OCI is more stressful than the interviews themselves? You're not alone. Legal recruiting has moved up earlier than ever, and your every move is already being noticed.

In this episode of Lock In and Go Big Law, your legal recruiting insiders Genevieve Riccardelli and Jennifer Soltau break down exactly what it means to "network like it's an interview" - because it is. From unexpected job offers in August to name-tag stealthing gone wrong, they've seen it all.

👀 In This Episode:

• Why networking is the interview, and what that really means

• The right (and wrong) way to show up at firm events

• Fall receptions, RSVP etiquette, and the myth of the perfect elevator pitch

• Hot tips on how to use 1L fellowships as your golden ticket to a 2L offer

• Cringe stories of bad advice, and how to avoid becoming one of them

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Every interaction with a firm is part of your interview

• Don't fake it. If you don't know what tech M&A is, don't claim you're passionate about it

• Showing up matters. And so does canceling responsibly

• Recruiters remember who stood out, and who flaked

• 1L fellowships are more than summer gigs. They're the feeder for 2L offers