Why Applying to Law Firms Without Openings is a Smart Strategy

This article will explore the benefits of applying to law firms without openings, why this strategy works, and how attorneys can effectively use it to their advantage.
 

1. Less Competition Equals Greater Visibility

One of the most immediate benefits of applying to a law firm that does not have a posted opening is the reduction in competition. When a firm advertises a job opening, particularly in a large market, it can receive hundreds of applications from highly qualified candidates. In cities like New York, Washington, D.C., or Los Angeles, top law firms often get flooded with applications as soon as a position is posted. This means an attorney’s application can get lost in the sheer volume of responses, even if they are highly qualified for the role.

On the other hand, when an attorney applies to a firm without an open position, they are likely to be one of the few—if not the only—candidates actively seeking that role at that moment. The firm is not inundated with applications, and this allows the attorney’s resume and cover letter to stand out. This also gives the firm more time to review the application and potentially consider the attorney for future needs. In this way, applying to firms without openings can often mean greater visibility and attention.


For example, in a city like Richmond, Virginia, where the legal market is smaller, a firm may not have an immediate need for an additional litigator. However, receiving a strong, unsolicited application from a well-qualified candidate may prompt the firm to consider expanding its team, especially if they foresee future demand. By being proactive, attorneys can place themselves in a prime position for opportunities that haven’t been advertised yet.
 

2. Firms Often Hire Opportunistically

Law firms, especially smaller or mid-sized ones, often hire opportunistically. Even if they do not have a formal job opening, they may still be interested in bringing on a candidate who has a unique or valuable skill set. Many law firms do not advertise every potential opening, particularly if they are unsure whether they will fill the role immediately or are waiting for the right candidate to come along.

A firm may not think it needs another attorney in a specific practice area until the right resume appears. For instance, a small corporate law firm in Northern Virginia may not be actively seeking a new associate, but when an attorney with specialized experience in mergers and acquisitions sends in their resume, the firm might recognize that hiring this attorney could help expand its capabilities and attract more business. By applying without waiting for a posted opening, attorneys can take advantage of this opportunistic hiring behavior.

Larger firms, too, can benefit from this approach. Law firms are constantly assessing their staffing needs based on client demand and projected growth. Even if they are not advertising an immediate position, they may anticipate needing more staff for an upcoming project or expanding a particular practice area. An unsolicited application from a well-qualified attorney can trigger the decision to bring on additional help sooner than planned.
 

3. Firms Often Have Unpublicized Needs

Another reason why applying to firms without openings can be effective is that firms often have unpublicized needs. Some law firms may have positions that are not advertised for a variety of reasons. They might want to keep the hiring process quiet due to internal restructuring, or they might not want to attract a deluge of applicants. Alternatively, a firm might not have gotten around to formally posting the job yet, even though they are actively looking for someone with specific skills.

For example, a firm might be experiencing an increase in client demand in a particular practice area, such as intellectual property or environmental law, but hasn’t yet formally begun the hiring process. An attorney with relevant expertise who sends in their application before the job is advertised can preemptively address the firm’s needs. In this way, an unsolicited application can align with the firm’s priorities before they even start the search for new candidates.

Additionally, firms may have long-term hiring goals but prefer to hire slowly and strategically rather than advertising every open position. By applying without waiting for a job to be posted, an attorney can show initiative and offer a solution to a potential staffing need that the firm may not have made public.
 

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• How to Rapidly Get Law Firm Offers (Even When Firms Have No Openings)
• What Strategies Do You Have to Recommend for Applying to Law Firms That Do Not Have Openings?
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4. Applying Without Openings Shows Initiative

Law firms value attorneys who show initiative. Sending an unsolicited application to a law firm, even when no positions are advertised, demonstrates an attorney’s proactive nature. This signals to the firm that the candidate is genuinely interested in working with them, rather than simply responding to an open job ad. This kind of initiative is particularly valued in firms that rely heavily on entrepreneurial attorneys who take the lead on business development, client acquisition, and expanding practice areas.

For senior attorneys, this approach can be especially effective. Many law firms expect senior hires to contribute to the firm’s growth by bringing in new clients or expanding the firm’s presence in a particular market. A senior attorney who applies to a firm with a clear plan for how they can contribute to the firm’s long-term success shows not only initiative but also leadership. Firms are more likely to consider such a candidate seriously, even if they were not planning on hiring someone at that level right away.

For junior attorneys or associates, demonstrating initiative by applying without an opening shows that they are not waiting for opportunities to come to them. It highlights their drive and commitment to joining the firm, which can set them apart from candidates who are only applying to advertised positions. Firms value this kind of forward-thinking mentality, as it reflects well on the attorney’s potential to succeed and contribute to the firm’s goals.
 

5. Building Relationships and Future Opportunities

Applying to a law firm without an advertised opening can also help build long-term relationships, even if the firm is not hiring immediately. By introducing yourself to a firm and making a strong case for why you would be a good fit, you position yourself as a candidate to be considered when a future opportunity arises. Law firms, like many other businesses, often keep promising resumes on file for future reference. If a position opens up later, the firm may reach out to candidates who have previously expressed interest, bypassing the need for a formal job advertisement.

For example, an attorney with a background in corporate governance may apply to a firm that doesn’t currently have an opening in that practice area. Six months later, when the firm decides to expand its corporate team, the attorney who took the initiative to apply early may be one of the first candidates considered, potentially even before the job is posted.

In smaller legal markets, such as mid-sized cities like Richmond or other non-sophisticated markets, relationships and networking are often the key to securing positions. Attorneys who take the initiative to reach out to firms, even without an opening, are more likely to build rapport with hiring partners or key decision-makers. These connections can lead to job offers when the firm’s needs align with the attorney’s skill set.

Additionally, by maintaining contact with firms after sending an unsolicited application, attorneys can stay top-of-mind for decision-makers. Sending periodic updates about relevant experience, recent casework, or new certifications can keep an attorney’s application fresh in the firm’s memory, increasing the likelihood that they’ll be contacted when the right opportunity arises.
 

6. Targeting Firms That Align with Long-Term Goals

Applying to firms without openings allows attorneys to be more selective and strategic in their job search. Rather than waiting for positions to be posted, attorneys can focus on firms that align with their long-term career goals, practice area interests, and work-life balance needs. This proactive approach enables attorneys to reach out to firms they genuinely want to work for, rather than simply responding to whichever openings are available at the time.

For example, an attorney with a passion for environmental law may identify a firm that aligns with their values and expertise, even if that firm is not currently advertising a position in that practice area. By applying early and expressing interest, the attorney increases their chances of being considered when the firm expands its environmental practice, rather than settling for a firm that doesn’t align with their career goals.

Similarly, attorneys looking to transition from a large firm in a sophisticated market to a smaller firm in a mid-sized city can benefit from applying without waiting for advertised positions. They can focus on firms that offer the right balance of work-life integration, client interaction, and professional development, rather than limiting their options to positions that happen to be available at the time they are job searching.
 

7. Unadvertised Openings: A Common Occurrence

It is also important to recognize that not all law firm job openings are advertised. Some firms may prefer to fill positions through internal recommendations, referrals, or from their network of contacts rather than posting the job publicly. In these cases, an unsolicited application can be the only way an attorney can get their foot in the door for positions that are never publicly posted.

In smaller markets, this is especially common. Law firms often rely on referrals and word-of-mouth to find new hires. By applying without waiting for a posted job, an attorney is effectively expanding their job search beyond what is publicly available, tapping into opportunities that are only accessible through direct outreach and personal connections.

In non-sophisticated markets, where firms may not have the resources to advertise every position or conduct wide-ranging job searches, attorneys who apply without openings can gain a significant advantage. Their proactive outreach can fill a staffing need that the firm has not yet formalized or advertised, especially in practice areas where the supply of specialized attorneys is limited.
 

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See Related Articles:

• Why Attorneys and Law Students Often Have a Difficult Time Finding Law Firm Jobs
• 15 Career Mistakes Attorneys Make Because They Do Not Have the Right Career Information
• Why You Should Never Use a Legal Recruiter: Do Not Use a Legal Recruiter Until You Read This

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8. How to Effectively Apply Without Openings

While applying to law firms without openings can be a highly effective strategy, it’s important to approach it the right way. Sending a generic resume or cover letter that lacks focus can quickly result in your application being ignored. Attorneys need to tailor their applications to the specific needs and culture of the firm they are targeting.

To increase the chances of success, attorneys should:

• Research the firm thoroughly: Understand the firm’s practice areas, key clients, and recent casework. Tailor your application to demonstrate how your skills align with the firm’s needs.
• Showcase unique skills: Highlight any specialized knowledge or expertise that makes you a valuable addition to the firm. This is particularly important for senior attorneys, who need to justify a higher salary by bringing something unique to the table.
• Express long-term interest: Make it clear that you are not just looking for any job, but that you are genuinely interested in contributing to the firm’s long-term success. This demonstrates commitment and sets you apart from candidates who are merely responding to job ads.
• Follow up: After submitting an unsolicited application, follow up periodically to express continued interest and share updates on your work or accomplishments. This helps keep you top-of-mind for future openings.

By approaching the process strategically, attorneys can increase their chances of securing a role even when no positions are formally posted.

Conclusion

Applying to law firms without openings is a smart strategy that can help attorneys reduce competition, demonstrate initiative, and align themselves with future opportunities. Law firms often hire opportunistically, and by applying early, attorneys can take advantage of unadvertised or upcoming needs. By building relationships, showcasing unique skills, and targeting firms that align with their long-term goals, attorneys can maximize their chances of landing a position—even when no job is publicly available.
 

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About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.