While the legal hiring market has certainly picked up in the last few years, conducting a job search can still feel daunting. Here are some tips to make your job search a little easier.
Network. Network. Network.
It is a well-circulated statistic that more than 70 percent of job seekers find their jobs through networking. But since job seekers often view networking as walking into a room full of strangers and awkwardly trying to start conversations, many simply refuse to do it. However, there are other approaches to building a professional network that may be easier for introverts and extroverts alike. Start with the people you know. Make sure your family members, friends and former colleagues know that you are interested in making a transition and what your ideal position would be. Also, reach out to other Georgia State Law alumni who are practicing in areas that interest you. You can find fellow alumni on the Georgia bar website. Ask them for a short meeting (15–20 minutes) to discuss strategies for finding your next opportunity. Never end a meeting with a new or established contact without asking if there is someone they might introduce you to who may also be a good resource.
Refresh your resume and other documents.
If you are actively networking, it will only be a matter of time before someone asks for your resume. So, make sure your resume is updated and reflects your most impressive qualifications. If you are less than three years out of law school, lead with your educational experience. If it has been more than three years, it is time to move your work experience to the top. Your resume should showcase your qualifications to do the job you would like to have. Start with the responsibilities you have held that are the most pertinent. Use detailed descriptions and give examples. When crafting a cover letter, highlight your strengths and skills and use examples from your resume to illustrate each. Do not simply repeat the list of responsibilities from your resume. The cover letter is your chance to show what you learned from those experiences. Finally, proofread your materials carefully. Then ask a friend or colleague to proofread. And then proofread again. You can ask the Career Services Office for assistance as well.
Clean up social media accounts.
Potential employers will look for you on social media. If you have a social media presence (e.g., Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook), go through your posts to ensure that you are projecting a professional image, even if you believe that your privacy settings would not allow a potential employer to access your profile. One photo of you holding a glass of wine at a cocktail party is probably not going to raise any red flags, but if you are holding a red Solo cup in every picture, a potential employer may develop some concerns. Also be cautious of bad language or off-color humor. If you have to think very hard about whether a post or a photograph is appropriate, it is probably best to delete it.
Use LinkedIn to your advantage.
If you have a LinkedIn profile, update your qualifications and make sure your picture is recent and professional. Your headshot should include professional attire and should not include pets, babies, significant others, or alcohol. If you are not on LinkedIn, consider joining. LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for networking and job searching. If you are considering applying for a posted position for a firm or organization, use the search feature on LinkedIn to see if you have any contacts there or if any of your connections know people there. If you see an icon that says “2nd” by the name of a person that works for the firm or organization you are interested in, that means you have a common connection with that person. Consider reaching out to your mutual connection to ask if they would be willing to make an introduction or put in a good word for you.
Amy P. McCarthy (J.D. ’02) is the interim associate director of the Career Services Office.