With the days of lockdowns firmly behind us, the last year has seen the return of in-person events for solicitors, and indeed professionals across all sectors looking to expand their knowledge. While online Continual Professional Development (CPD) training in webinar format certainly has its benefits, most significantly the convenience of being able to view the sessions from your own desk or the flexibility to watch replays in your own time, attending in-person events also has its advantages.
Before we dive deeper into some of the key benefits of attending in-person events, it is important to also note that, regardless of your preference, the Law Society of Ireland has confirmed that both forms must be included in overall CPD requirements for 2023 and beyond.
The latest update states that while the total requirement for CPD remains at 20 hours for the year, this must comprise of a maximum of 15 hours online training, and a minimum of five hours which must be fulfilled in-person.
So, like it or not, in-person events are back and to remind you of why this is not a bad thing, we are going to share some of the great benefits that attending in-person events can offer solicitors.
Networking opportunities foster meaningful connections
As the saying goes, ‘Often it’s not what we know, but who we know’. Networking may not be something that every solicitor will want to engage in, but there are many advantages to this type of interaction. For those who struggle with networking, we have some great tips in a previous article here.
In-person legal events provide the perfect setting for solicitors to participate in some essential networking. These events often include specific networking sessions, social events, and breakout sessions where solicitors can engage in conversations, exchange business cards, and establish rapport with others in the industry.
Nobody understands better the unique challenges of practicing law than your fellow solicitors and networking allows you to nurture long term professional relationships with your peers. Building these relationships can lead to collaboration on future cases, knowledge-sharing, and a support system of like-minded professionals who understand the unique challenges and opportunities in the legal field.
You will also be in the position to meet with renowned legal experts, which could open doors to new opportunities in the future. And finally, even fellow solicitors may need legal services on a personal level at some point, so you can connect with potential clients at an in-person event.
All in all, building a strong network within the legal community can provide solicitors with a competitive edge that will make them stand out from the crowd.
Access Expert Led CPD Seminars and Workshops
The main attraction of attending a legal event, whether in-person or online, is the opportunity to collect those all-important CPD points. Legal events provide solicitors with access to expert-led CPD seminars designed to enhance their knowledge and skills. These events often feature renowned legal professionals as guest speakers, sharing their expertise and insights on various legal topics, covering all areas of CPD from Regulatory, to Management and Professional Development, and General topics.
The beauty of attending these sessions in-person is the opportunity to dive into these topics in greater detail in the workshop sessions known as breakout rooms. Generally attendees can choose which breakout rooms they want to attend based on their specific fields of law. These workshops tend to be smaller groups making it easier for attendees to engage and interact with the guest speakers in a more intimate setting.
There is constant movement in the ways of the law so by attending these sessions, solicitors can stay updated with the latest legal developments. The knowledge gained from expert-led workshops and seminars can significantly contribute to a solicitor’s professional growth and competence.
Exposure to cutting-edge resources and solutions
At an in-person event, in between the seminars and breakout room sessions, solicitors will often have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge resources and solutions tailored to the legal industry. From technology vendors showcasing innovative legal tech solutions to exhibitors offering specialized legal services, these events provide first-hand exposure to the tools and resources that can enhance a solicitor’s practice. Engaging with these resources allows solicitors to stay ahead of the curve, streamline their workflows, and optimize their service delivery to clients.
From legal technology, research tools, document management systems, and practice management software, there will be something to pique the interest of every solicitor. Guests can engage with representatives from these companies, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of how these resources can improve their efficiency, productivity, and overall client service. And at the very least, you will be heading home with a bag full of merchandise and samples offered by the vendors.
In-person events encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing
Particularly for solo practitioners, the daily working life of a solicitor can often be lonely. The beauty of an in-person event is that it creates an environment of togetherness that encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among solicitors. Attendees have the opportunity to engage in discussions, share experiences, and exchange ideas with like-minded professionals facing similar challenges. This collaborative atmosphere can spark creativity, provide fresh perspectives, and inspire solicitors to explore innovative approaches to their practice. By participating in workshops, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, solicitors can tap into a wealth of collective knowledge and broaden their understanding of legal issues.
From interactive sessions to roundtable discussions, it’s the perfect platform to share insights, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of others. By actively participating in these sessions, solicitors can expand their knowledge base and refine their approach to the wide variety of legal matters.
Personal and professional growth
In recent years, we have seen the connection between our personal development and professional career trajectory. Now that we know how our own wellbeing affects our ability to grow professionally, it’s important to access trainings and resources that will help us to take control of our personal and professional journey.
Legal trainings, both online and in-person events, often feature sessions focused on career development, leadership skills, and effective practice management. Solicitors can gain insights into strategies for advancing their careers, enhancing their leadership abilities, and positioning themselves as experts in their respective fields. However, the benefit of attending these particular types of training in-person, is that you have the opportunity to discuss these learnings further with fellow attendees. For example, if you’re unsure of the direction of your career journey, chatting to fellow solicitors who may have been at a similar point at some stage in their own careers can prove to be a catalyst for your own professional growth.
Training sessions that cover topics related to wellbeing, such as meditation and stress management are becoming increasingly popular across all professional sectors. With some research showing that over 66% of solicitors are currently experiencing high levels of stress in their daily work, stress management is clearly a priority topic. Sitting in for these types of sessions at a legal in-person event with other solicitors can be of huge benefit as everyone in the room will be learning skills together such as breathing exercises and meditation, skills that can be practiced both in work and at home. Furthermore, simply opening up the discussion of stress and how to manage it with your fellow attendees can be hugely supportive.
Be inspired and motivated from in-person events
For solicitors with a heavy workload, it can often feel like you are chained to your desk. In-person events offer a unique source of inspiration and motivation for solicitors, as well as the opportunity to enjoy a change of scenery. Surrounding oneself with a community of ambitious and driven professionals can reignite passion for the legal profession. The collective energy and enthusiasm generated at these events can inspire you to set new goals, embrace challenges, and strive for excellence. Engaging with successful solicitors, listening to their stories, and learning from their experiences can instill a sense of motivation and determination to excel in your own career.
Solicitors’ Growth is your one stop shop for CPD content through online webinars and in-person events
Attending in-person events provides solicitors with a wealth of benefits that significantly contribute to their professional growth and success. From networking opportunities and expert-led workshops to access to cutting-edge resources and solutions, these events offer a comprehensive platform for solicitors to expand their knowledge, establish valuable connections, and stay at the forefront of the legal profession.
While we have focused on the benefits of attending in-person events for solicitors in this blog, online webinars are equally an extremely valuable and convenient method of learning and developing in both a professional and personal capacity. Finding a happy balance between the two forms of CPD is the ideal goal for solicitors across all fields of law. Remember, whether it’s online webinars or attending in-person events, these sessions are an investment in your professional development and an opportunity to enhance your legal skills, expand your network and propel your career forward.
At Solicitors’ Growth, we recognise the importance of in-person interactions, and our Roadshows are geared towards offering attendees a wide variety of CPD content, as well as the opportunity to connect with fellow SG members.
Don’t miss out on the valuable benefits that being a member of Solicitors’ Growth has to offer. Take the step and be part of the vibrant community of solicitors dedicated to their growth and success. And keep an eye on our website and socials for updates on our upcoming Roadshows.
*The aim of our blog is to share valuable information and resources with our colleagues. Follow us on social so you get notified of our latest blogs.
To become a contributor to the blog, please contact info@solicitorsgrowth.com.
