1. Conduct a Career Self-Assessment
Tough economic times offer job seekers the opportunity to revaluate job goals. Studies show that people who work in careers that align with their skills, interests and values are happier and more productive. One way to determine your likes, skills, interests, and values is through an honest self-assessment.
2. Get the Right Education
The right education is essential to landing a satisfying job in the legal industry. In a tough job market, advanced educational credentials can set you apart from other job candidates. Perhaps an advanced degree, a certificate or a few courses can boost your resume and shorten your job search.
3. Sharpen Your Technology Skills
Technology is changing the practice of law and technical skills are essential in all levels of the legal profession. Job seekers may want to brush up on technology skills through CLEs, vendor training and classes at local universities. In a tight job market, superior technology skills will give you an edge in landing a new job.
4. Leverage the Power of the Internet
The Internet is one of the most powerful job hunting tools in your career arsenal. Optimize your resume and cover letters with key words that will bring them to the top of the digital “pile”. Target your job search through online employment websites specific to the legal profession and boost your online presence by participating in Internet groups and forums.
5. Use Social Media
Don’t underestimate the power of social media to assist you in your job search. Social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and law-related social networking sites can help you make new contacts and open doors to new job opportunities.
6. Network through Industry Listservs
Listserves specific to the legal industry are another great way to forge new connections and learn about unadvertised job openings. Sign up for a few listservs in your practice niche and join the conversation.
7. Choose the Right Recruiter
In some cases, a recruiter or head-hunter can give you an edge in your job search. They may have access to unadvertised openings and can provide one-on-one resume and interview coaching. Before choosing a recruiter, be certain to ask these seven questions.
8. Update Your Resume
Your resume should be a constant work in progress. You should tweak, update and revise it for every position you apply to. Most importantly, avoid these common resume blunders.
9. Craft a Customized Cover Letter
Your cover letter is your sales pitch. A well-crafted cover letter will encourage hiring managers to review your resume and peak their interest enough to put you on the interview list. Be certain to craft a customized cover letter for each position you seek.
10. Create a Career Portfolio
Track your accomplishments and create a “career portfolio” that highlights your achievements - these tips can help. Displaying your portfolio during salary negotiations or an interview can help nudge a hiring decision in your favor.
11. Research Salaries
Reliable salary data is essential to any job search. These salary calculators, tools and resources can help you determine the salary range you should target for the position you seek.
12. Polish Your Interview Skills
Practice your interview pitch and modify your pitch to fit each position you interview for. Highlight the strengths and traits the position calls for and discuss how your skills and experience fit the role.
