Summary: Before you start your law firm job search, think through these five issues.
In a new article on BCGSearch, Harrison Barnes offers some valuable advice for beginning the search for a law firm job, whether you are fresh out of law school or have already been practicing for a few years.
First, ask yourself what your concerns are. Do you want to practice in a variety of areas, or would you rather specialize? Do you prefer one industry over another? How much responsibility are you comfortable with?
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You should also think about your work environment. Do you want to work somewhere fast-paced, or more laid back? Would you like to work on one big project, or perhaps several smaller ones? What are your limits regarding salary and hours?
Next, you must consider whether these concerns will be addressed as you proceed into your career. In many situations, your current position may evolve into the one that you want. Look at the positions of your seniors, and ask yourself if it is a position you would eventually want. Do they seem happy with their work?
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Even if your current job is not perfect, will your experience get you to where you want to be? For example, if you are working for a prestigious firm, its name on your resume will likely get you far. Take note of where other associates go when they depart, and use this information to think about what your firm can eventually offer you.
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Think about other ways you can learn about your options. Keep note of your legal network, and reach out to those individuals for “courtesy” interviews to collect information on your options. Ask them how they got their jobs and who they recommend you contact. Consider legal recruiting sites like LawCrossing and BCG Attorney Search.
Remember, interviewing discretely is an excellent way to gather information about your options—it does not mean you have to take the job. It simply allows you to become more aware of your options.
Check out the full article at BCGSearch.com.
Source: BCGSearch
Photo credit: MBAdataguru.com
