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!
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.
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?
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.
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.
Be very organized about where and when you sent your materials.
Communicate at a high level with your recruiter, firm recruiters and anyone that assists you.
Be back in touch soon!
Mark N. Fishman
