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The job market for lawyers is
hot right now, yet we are still in an era of job elimination
and the reality is, change is a constant. For career success,
one must be prepared for change at all times. So if, in fact,
your job circumstances change, what are some immediate steps
you can take?
Handle yourself professionally and express your appreciation
for the opportunity your employer gave you.
Your termination may be unexpected or unfair, but the old maxim
of "never burn a bridge" is one rule with no exception.
After you have gathered yourself, express appreciation for the
opportunity given to you. Showing business and professional maturity
will serve you in your job search and your career.
Obtain letters of recommendation from your colleagues.
Letters of recommendation still go a long way in catching
the attention of prospective employers. If, for whatever reason,
you are unable to obtain a letter from your direct supervisor,
consider asking others within your organization. This could include
other partners with whom you have worked, colleagues, adversaries,
judges, and if appropriate and within ethical bounds, clients.
Request Outplacement Assistance.
Outplacement is an employer-funded personalized service
that addresses the need of an individual moving into a new position.
Working with an outplacement provider is radically different
than working with a recruiter. In short, you are the client,
not the employer. Outplacement provides educational assistance
and various types of support into new employment. It is commonplace
amidst law firms in the Minnesota market to provide outplacement
assistance; just make sure the outplacement provider has substantial
experience working with attorneys and legal personnel versus
the general public. A job search for a legal position requires
a broader range of tactics than the typical job search. |
Patricia A. Comeford, a former
practicing attorney, is president of The Esquire Group, strategic
staffing consultants to the legal profession. In 1999 The Esquire
Group is celebrating its tenth anniversary. |
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"The 'hidden job market' is alive and well"
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Network with your firm.
Sometimes human nature causes us to overlook tapping into our
network as one begins a job search. We suddenly feel "funny"
about talking with our network, or we panic because we think
we have no network at all. Recognize that in today's world everyone
you know has been or has someone in his or her life who has been
let go. It does not have to be a mark on your career; it is all
in how you handle it. Our experience has also been that one's
existing employer (partners, associates and staff) can be a surprisingly
great starting point.
Don't be discouraged by the want ads.
For many individuals, reading and relying on the want
ads can be a negative experience. Want ads are only one way employers
staff positions. The "hidden job market" is alive and
well, and part of your learning process will be learning how
to tap into that market.
Meet with a well-respected, experienced legal recruiter.
One such resource for the hidden job market is a recruiter.
If you are unaware of a reputable recruiter, ask the management
in your firm if they know of a well-regarded recruiter. Such
a recruiter will have a consulting relationship with various
legal organizations, which can help you move beyond being one
of a pile of resumes on someone's desk. In short, a recruiter
can be your advocate, a direct voice to the employer. A knowledgeable
recruiter can also shed light on matters like compensation systems,
adaptability to laterals, support strengths, and management philosophies.
Be judicious about sending out your resume.
Many of us are tempted to "paper the town"
once we begin a job search. While this can be effective for a
certain segment of the candidate marketplace, it can also backfire.
This is particularly true if your objective involves a shift
in career direction. Also, on many occasions you must want just
to network with your contact and may set yourself up for a rejection
letter. Use your good judgment. The key is not allowing your
letters and resumes to become more junk mail on someone's desk. |
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