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Legal Industry Insight

Successful Job Search Strategies – A Checklist

The job search process can be somewhat intimidating at the outset, but if you approach the process with energy and organization, you no doubt will enjoy success from your efforts. The bottom line is that you must be strategic and confident in your approach to exploring the employment marketplace. Outlined below are some general reminders to ensure you reach your goal in securing a new position.

Sources — Be Creative!

• Internet - Visit employer web sites, legal specialty and general job boards, legal trade association web sites, and legal directories.
• Help Wanted Ads - Read local newspapers and legal trade publications.
• Networking - Meet and greet professionals at bar association and paralegal association functions, civic, and volunteer events. Contact alumni for assistance.
• Recruiters – Use reputable placement professionals to market your skills and experience to the employment marketplace.

The Resume Process

• Keep cover letters short, professional, and to the point.
• Ensure your resume is easy to follow, concise, and carefully proofread! If relevant, prepare a transaction or “deal” sheet to accompany your resume.
• Send resumes to “real names” not to “Human Resources,” or “To Whom It May Concern,” or “Hiring Partner.” A simple call to the employer’s offices will enable you to identify this information.
• Let your resume demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Don’t keep the decision-maker guessing.
• Follow up within one week on all resumes that you send to prospective employers. This is incredibly important!

The Interview

• Do your homework! Research the company/firm and the people with whom you will be meeting.
• Prepare a series of questions that will enable you to understand the company’s culture, expectations, and the overall job requirements.
• Develop a sales presentation that outlines your accomplishments, strengths, and relevant experience.
• Be prepared to discuss weaknesses and gaps on your resume.
• Don’t burn bridges and “bad mouth” former or current employers.
• Practice your response to the dreaded salary question.
• Reiterate your interest in the position at the close of the meeting.

Follow Through

• Send thank you notes via e-mail or mail. Make sure you proofread them!
• Follow up within a few days on the status of your application. Reiterate your interest in the position and your availability to continue the process.
• Negotiate like a champ and enjoy the success of your search process!

Additional Reminders… Temporary Work

• Keep busy during career breaks by performing temporary work.
• Temporary work also enables you to hone your legal skills and keep them sharp. It may introduce you to new skill sets as well.
• Temporary work affords a new forum for networking with other professionals.
• Temporary work allows you to earn competitive pay while you are seeking permanent employment. Many temporary assignments serve as a bridge to direct hire opportunities.

Continuing Education

Always invest in your professional development by enrolling in continuing education classes. These classes will enable you to keep abreast of current trends in your practice area and increase your exposure to new areas of the law in which you are interested. Additionally, you should also read legal trade journals to keep up with relevant news in your practice area.