Health Law Institute, 31^st Annual 

Last Chance to Connect! Top 10 Tips for Networking

Looking to connect with leading health care law experts? This is where it happens. It’s Michigan’s premier opportunity to grow your network and build meaningful professional relationships—whether you’re interested in major mergers, compliance complications, patient protection, or anything in between. With dedicated networking breaks, a lively lunch, and an evening reception, you’ll have countless chances to build connections that last. 

Here are 10 ways to make the most of your time at the institute:

1) Set Your Intentions Early
Before you arrive, identify what you want out of the day: Is it new clients, mentors, referral partners, or just insight into a particular area? Having a goal will help shape your approach and boost your confidence.

2) Plan Your Sessions Strategically
Review the schedule in advance. Target sessions and speakers that align with your interests—and see who’s speaking. Our plenaries and tracks give you many options to tailor the event to your particular practice needs. Prioritize when you can interact with health professionals, peers, and current and former state employees, whether after a session or during a Q&A. 

3) Perfect Your Introduction
Prepare a concise, memorable introduction for yourself—think of it as your legal “elevator pitch.” Focus on what makes your practice unique, but make it conversational.

4) Leverage Opportunities Outside of the Sessions
Don’t skip the networking lunch or reception. These informal settings are often where the most authentic and lasting connections are made. 

5) Seek Out Mentor Moments
If you’re newer to health law, don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to established practitioners or ask for career advice. Curiosity is the best way to demonstrate your commitment to learning in your career. Ask thoughtful questions and listen closely—you might spark mentorships that last long after the institute ends. 

6) Pay It Forward and Be a Connector
If you’re a veteran health law practitioner, leverage your experience and network by introducing colleagues to others who might share their interests or practice areas. You’ll strengthen your professional relationships, grow your reputation, and discover new opportunities. 

7) Engage Speakers and Moderators
Don’t be shy when it comes to asking questions during Q&A, or approaching speakers afterward with thoughtful follow-ups. Complimenting a speaker on a specific point can spark a genuine conversation.

8) Be Curious About Others
Networking isn’t just about you—ask about others’ work and interests. Don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions. People appreciate listeners, and you’ll learn more about possible partnership and referral opportunities.

9) Bring—and Collect—Business Cards (Or Digital Alternatives)
Have business cards handy, but also be ready to use LinkedIn or digital contact-sharing apps. When you collect a card, jot down a note on the back about your conversation to help personalize your post-event follow-up. And be sure to use social media to amplify your presence by posting photos or sharing key institute moments. Tag speakers or new acquaintances to continue building your network online.

10) Follow Up Promptly and Personally
Within a few days, reach out to new contacts with a brief, personalized message. Reference your conversation, send an article they might find useful, or suggest a future coffee or call to continue the discussion.

Bonus Tip! Go beyond the small talk and ask other attendees the how and why of what they do. Speak up when it comes to your personal motivations and goals—authenticity is more memorable than a business card. 

Happy networking!

82% of lawyers reported that maintaining and building professional networks was “important” or “very important” for career success and client development.

-2024 ABA Legal Technology Survey Report, American Bar Association