THE JOB SEARCH: 10 Tips for Law Students and Recent Graduates

By Victoria Capinpin

LCS Graduate Fellow

For most people, searching for a job can be stressful, frustrating, and intimidating. However, Carla DeVelder’s article from the issue of Student Lawyer magazine, “Job Searching Tips for Law Students and New Graduates” offers some tips that may help students and recent graduates stay on track with the job searching process. 

1.  Pay attention to your mental state

Don't let the frustrations of your job search "creep into your demeanor." The professionals in your network, including potential employers, can easily sense a negative attitude. Find activities that help alleviate your stress to ensure that you always make a positive impression with anyone you meet at any given time.

2. Get a game plan together for loan repayment

A majority of the stress that comes with job searching has to do with paying off student debt. The best way to manage this stress is to "figure out your options sooner rather than later." Research your options and schedule appointments with the financial aid office.

3. Make sure you pass the bar

Studying for the bar should be your full-time job after graduation. Whether or not practicing law is your first choice for your career, passing the bar will open up more employment opportunities.

4. Focus your search

Do not start your job search with the "I'll take any job I can get" mentality. Focus on your qualifications and objectives and develop a concrete plan. While narrowing your job search may seem like it will limit your opportunities, it actually helps you refine your application materials and focus on the "right" jobs for you.

5. Consider additional training or certificates

Additional training or certificates may enhance your marketability. G.M Filisko's article, "Are Joint Degrees Worth It?" weighs the costs and benefits of getting an additional degree.

6. Engage professionals

Continue to attend networking events and meet new people in the profession. Talk to your peers, find people that practice in the area that you are genuinely interested in, and schedule informational interviews with them to talk about that field of work. When your interest is sincere, people will remember you the next time there is a job opportunity and will be more willing to help you.

7. Brainstorm ways to generate income

Look for temporary positions that give you flexibility in your schedule to allow you to continue job searching. Recent graduates should also consider document review.

8. Volunteer or pick up a pro bono project

Gain legal experience for your resume while building your professional network by volunteering for a nonprofit organization or government agency or accepting a pro bono case.

9. Beef up your resume with publications

Writing articles on topics that you are interested in is one way to make your resume stand out from others. Contact your bar and ask about their submissions for informational articles for their publications.

10. Get creative

Part of a successful job search includes the ability to think of unconventional methods of making yourself stand out from others. Ms. DeVelder shares an experience where her former colleague's creativity got her a job position that didn't even exist: "A former colleague of mine recently responded to a company’s advertisement seeking a paralegal. In reading the job description, it occurred to her that what the company really needed was in-house counsel. She applied, using both her cover letter and interview to explain to the employer what she had to offer and to pitch the idea of them hiring a lawyer. When they agreed in theory but balked at salary, she agreed to six months at the paralegal rate with a guaranteed performance review and salary discussion at the end of that time. A year later, she is officially their first in-house counsel, got a glowing performance review, AND a raise to a much better salary."

Read more tips about job searching here!