For When You Can’t Find a Job
I graduated law school in 2010. It was after the market crashed, and ironically, I picked law instead of psychology because I thought I would have better job options. 😵💫
In my last semester before graduating, all my classmates wanted to talk about was whether you had a job. I didn’t have one, and I was secretly terrified. But outwardly, I kept chipping away at networking. I figured if my grades weren’t the best (I was in the middle of my class), I would use my personality to get a job.
I do remember feeling ashamed that I didn’t have a job lined up. Like something was wrong with me, and like being picked last for the team. It was an awful, scary feeling, and if any of you are going through something similar, you are not alone. Here’s my path I used to get my first law school job.
1️⃣ Networking with Alumni.
I went to career services and got a list of alumni who practiced in the area I wanted to explore. I emailed all of them asking if they would be open to grabbing a cup of coffee and talking about their practice with me. All of them responded and were willing to talk. One led to my first job.
2️⃣ Don’t Send Messages to Strangers with an Immediate “Ask.”
If you don’t know someone, the first question you ask should not be a "withdrawal" from the relationship goodwill bank – it should be a deposit, or an introduction. Now, as an employer, I get multiple LinkedIn messages from strangers asking to work for my firm in the first sentence – instead of an introduction. I say that I’m not hiring (even though I am). It’s like cold selling but with job seeking, it really rubs me the wrong way.
3️⃣ You Likely Won’t Find Your Dream Job Right Away.
It takes time to build up to a job you love (or can tolerate). Strive for small changes over time – nothing about a job is perfect, but you are seeking professional fulfillment which takes time. Be willing to put in your dues as a stepping stone to the next best thing.
PS - My law firm is hiring for an employment litigator - read the job post here. If you or someone you know would be a good fit, definitely pass it along! 💗