Weekly Thoughts on Recruiting...

Now that you have succinctly listed the key qualities you want with your next firm - what is the next step? Many attorneys quickly will hop on legal job posting sites and apply to as many positions as possible hoping that something sticks. Others might call a search firm and allow them to blast your resume to as many law firms as possible hoping something sticks. I suggest there is a much better way to manage your search.

First, take a step back and review the top three to five reasons you want to leave your employer. Now examine all the jobs you plan to apply to. Do each of these jobs check what you want professionally? I cannot imagine they do. I think one of the last objectives you have is to end up in a position that has little differentiation from your current job.

Second, determine how much time you have to conduct a thorough job search while balancing your current position and other life demands. If you were to receive seven job interviews would you really put in the appropriate amount of time to research these firms and conduct well-thought-out interviews while working at a high-level position now? Something will have to give.

I have found that the best plan is to create a very focused search seeking positions that bring you great professional growth in your next role. Stick to your plan! My next article will explain why using an experienced recruiter may be of great benefit to your search.

Thanks,

Mark

Law Firm Job Search Strategy

Are you ready to commence your lateral search for a new attorney position? The easiest task to perform is to start sending your resume through numerous online applications. My suggestion is to put a pause on that activity for a moment until you create a solid job search strategy.

Being a recruiter for well over a decade I have noticed that too many attorneys blast out resumes to dozens of job posting they find without first determining what specific position they truly want moving forward and what they are realistically qualified to obtain.

So what is a better strategy? I will provide a list below and will discuss in detail in future blog posts so keep tuned!

1. Write down three reasons why you want to leave your current law firm or in-house position and what you absolutely need with your next job.

2. What specific expertise do you have that will put your resume on the very top of their list? What can you perform hitting the ground running right now? If you are seeking to change your focus then what specific skills have you acquired that will make you a top candidate when compared to your peers who currently have the experience you lack?

3. If you find job postings directly or through a recruiter like me be very realistic about what you are qualified to do. It is okay to stretch a little but not beyond reason.

4. Compile a list of people you know very well in the legal industry that you can trust to remain absolutely confident and assist you with this search.

5. Be very organized about where and when you sent your materials.

6. Communicate at a high level with your recruiter, firm recruiters and anyone that assists you.

Be back in touch soon!

Mark N. Fishman