I go to bar association meetings from time to time. These functions usually involve lunch. When I go I frequently see other family law attorneys mingling about.

Usually the family law attorneys are talking to other family law attorneys. I get it. People gravitate toward people they know.

When it’s time to eat we head toward the tables and grab a seat. Most people sit with the same people they’ve been talking to – the people they already know. It’s fairly common for me to notice a table or two filled entirely with family law practitioners.

Bad idea.

Don’t sit with people you already know.

Branch out, take a chance, sit with someone you don’t know.

This is your chance to get to know some new people and to start relationships that may turn into referrals.

If you’re struggling with a strategy for introducing yourself, just linger a minute as people sit. Wait for the tables to fill up. Look for one with a single seat left. Then charge for it and slip in.

Instantly the people to your right and left will introduce themselves. Introduce yourself to everyone at the table as everyone settles in. Next thing you know, you’ll have started 8 or 9 new relationships.

Try to connect with each person at the table. Exchange cards if things are going well. Follow up later with the people you like and want to get to know.

Non of this will happen if you sit with the family law crowd. Take a risk, it will result in a reward.